Design a product, service, or initiative that supports a small business in growing its impact, fostering inclusion, and generating opportunities.
SDG 8 is about creating opportunities for work, supporting entrepreneurship, and helping communities grow economically. It focuses on fair jobs, skills development, and access to tools that help people succeed financially.
Think about ways to support economic growth in your community, whether it’s helping someone start a business, find meaningful work, or gain the skills and tools they need to thrive financially.
Many young people and small businesses face barriers when it comes to earning a living, growing their ideas, or accessing resources. Nearly 1 in 3 youth worldwide report not having equal access to opportunities to earn a living or start a business.
By helping a business amplify its impact, you can expand access to resources and open opportunities for those in your community.
When designing your solution, think about these elements:
| Research the community needs | Learn about the obstacles that prevent small businesses from reaching more people or creating opportunities. Explore different types of businesses, industries, and communities to see where your idea could have the most impact.. |
| Brainstorm ideas | Think about ways a product, service, or initiative could help a small business grow while promoting inclusion. Consider multiple approaches and don’t be afraid to combine ideas or try something new. |
| Design your solution | Plan your product, service, or initiative in detail. How will it work? Who will it involve? What tools, platforms, or strategies will make it engaging, effective, and accessible? |
| Plan for impact | Consider how your solution will make a difference over time. Who benefits and how? How can you measure success, and what would make your idea sustainable for long-term growth and inclusion? |
Some small businesses focus on serving diverse communities, creating products or services that expand access, inclusion, and opportunity. Companies like these demonstrate how small businesses can grow their impact while empowering people from all backgrounds.
A microfinance platform that allows individuals to lend money to small business owners around the world, helping them grow their businesses and create economic opportunities in underserved communities. |
A mission-driven brand rooted in West African traditions, offering ethically sourced bath and body products while empowering artisans, uplifting communities, and creating opportunities through culturally driven entrepreneurship. |
A social enterprise that connects artisans in Kenya with global markets through technology, helping small businesses expand their reach while promoting fair wages and empowering women entrepreneurs. |
