At the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) we have a long history of working with the private sector on a broad range of issues where core business interests and objectives align with USAID development priorities. In today’s globalized world, there are more opportunities than ever before for this kind of cross-sector collaboration. Recognizing that developing economies represent many of the fastest growing markets, customer bases and workforces, a growing number of private sector actors—including U.S. and global corporations, local businesses based in developing countries, financial institutions, impact investors and entrepreneurs—are proactively seeking opportunities to drive growth and profitability while delivering impact in the communities and countries where they operate. By working together, USAID and the business community can leverage our respective expertise, capabilities and resources to achieve greater impact and foster the economic growth and poverty reduction needed to sustain business and industry.

The partnerships featured in this report are just a few examples of the many ways in which USAID engages the business community to address the underlying causes of extreme poverty—including access to energy, global health, governance, food security and economic growth—and work toward long-term success, even after our involvement has ended. Together with our partners, we are working to help 1.2 billion people lift themselves out of poverty and create a brighter, healthier and more secure future for all.