Overview

As a key instrument of the Global Gateway’s 360-degree approach, the GG ICR Facility drives inclusive and sustainable development. 

The private sector is critical to the economic and social development of any country. Businesses create jobs, pay incomes, drive innovations – and thus open up new perspectives. However, there are challenges that can make it difficult for the private sector to operate – and even more to do so in a green and just way. Women in particular face obstacles as entrepreneurs, employees, and leaders. 

For businesses to thrive and the economy to develop, both the private and public sectors play an important role. The public sector is needed to create clear, transparent, fair, and inclusive regulatory frameworks. The private sector should use these frameworks to drive sustainable economic growth with job opportunities for both women and men. 

This is why the GG ICR Facility supports public institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia and the Pacific (INTPA partner countries) to improve the policies, regulations, and services – including access to finance – so that they contribute to an enabling business environment. We also empower private sector organisations to actively engage in policy discussions and contribute to a better business environment. A particular focus is on ensuring that these reforms and policies also reach and benefit women in the economy, promote equal rights, access to opportunities and green, sustainable growth for all. 

Upon request, we provide expertise to both private and public institutions in optimising regulatory reforms, institutional capacity and economic policy frameworks. Our focus is to make sure that business environment reforms work for women as their full participation in the economy has been traditionally overlooked and has a huge potential impact on the economic and social development of partner countries.