Inclusive Business Co-creation Accelerator
Reference number | |
Coordinator | RISE RESEARCH INSTITUTES OF SWEDEN AB - SP Energiteknik, Göteborg |
Funding from Vinnova | SEK 2 000 000 |
Project duration | January 2016 - December 2016 |
Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
The IBCA continues to work towards the vision of having Swedish business playing a leading role in addressing the global challenges of poverty. In 2016, 3 goals were met or exceeded with the following results: We have over 120 Swedish actors in our ecosystem and many others have joined internationally. Working actively with 20 ventures involving 25 Swedish businesses supporting them to develop and scale their initiatives. Confirmed partnerships with organisations in Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria and India and are developing collaborations with China, South Africa and Botswana.
Expected results and effects
The IBCA works towards its vision through enabling ventures. In energy, the programme supports ventures tackling energy poverty in East Africa and sustainable smart grids in India. Agri ventures address hidden hunger through bioprocessing, salt-tolerant wheat for Bangladesh and empower women in agribusiness. In textiles, a jute farm-to-factory and textile recycling ecosystem has been defined for Bangladesh. Water and sanitation solutions are being developed for refugee centres and crisis situations. Health is focusing on developing eHealth solutions for East Africa.
Planned approach and implementation
While the IBCA reached its goals, some activities progressed further and faster than others. For example, the Inclusive Business Forum, initially planned for May, was eventually delivered in October. The Co-creation Camp in Bangladesh planned it for November was not able to be carried out due to a worsening security situation. Instead, we managed to have our partners join in Sweden to launch the alliance. While overall we are happy with the design and progress, we do recognise that we need to be more focused while also continuing to be flexible with our approach in this complex field.