How can corporations advance economic equity in the green and digital transitions? BOX 10Across the world, numerous policies have been adopted to strengthen social enterprise, particularly for the green and digital transitions. These policies range from dedicated action plans to market regulation, from investments to public-private sector collaboration. The following section explores how policy can develop environments that allow social enterprises to drive equitable outcomes in the green and digital transitions. Direct engagement Social procurement Collaboration and partnerships Resources and communications Corporate investment and funding Mentorship, capacity development and support Ecosystem involvement Network growth Policy and advocacy Verification and certification Integration into business Social impact goals alignment Workforce human capital alignment Supply-chain incentives and policies Integration of principles into corporate business strategy Source: World Economic Forum. (2024). The Corporate Social Innovation Compass: Accelerating Impact through Social Enterprise Partnerships. https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-corporate-social-innovation-compass-accelerating-impact- through-social-enterprise-partnerships/.Corporations are at the forefront of the green and digital transitions and often have a direct stake in addressing challenges of economic equity. For example, they require a skilled workforce to produce relevant products and services in the green and digital economy. They are also invested in accessible and reliable infrastructure, allowing corporations to unlock new markets and consumer groups. At a minimum, businesses should avoid exacerbating existing inequalities. The Business Commission to Tackle Inequality outlines a business action agenda. The top three priorities for businesses are (1) implementing the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, (2) making essential products more accessible and affordable, and (3) creating diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces and value chains.63 To positively impact equity, corporations can collaborate with social enterprises and adopt more inclusive and sustainable business practices. The Corporate Social Innovation Compass of the World Economic Forum identifies the following engagement mechanisms: Unlocking the Social Economy: Towards Equity in the Green and Digital Transitions 22

Unlocking the Social Economy 2025