I was doing some research this week on global entrepreneurship trends, preparing for a forthcoming speech, and I found myself re-reading the 2018 BNP Paribas Global Entrepreneur Report. One of the findings caught my eye again - the surge in the number of businesses looking to not just make a profit, but also an impact. According to the report, it’s become a defining criterion of professional success for 39% of the survey’s respondents, compared to 10% just two years ago. This represents a real ‘sea change’ in the world of entrepreneurship, and particularly in the women’s entrepreneurship space. Businesses that make a positive impact with their ethos, their products and services, and their approach to doing more sustainable business, are being viewed more positively by society and customers alike. This is also reflected in the world of impact investment, with the report highlighting that in the last 12 months, the majority of Elite Entrepreneurs surveyed state they have invested part of their wealth to achieving socially responsible outcomes. 80% of them believe that entrepreneurship is the most effective way to generate a positive local or global impact. Couldn’t agree more!
Have yourself an inspired entrepreneurial day! - Melanie