Also see:

More on IBLF's work to promote partnerships

NETWORKS

Networks are about building trust and helping groups or individuals connect better with each other.

Collective business partnerships between different types of stakeholders can be far more effective than organisations working on their own, but it is a challenge for partners to recognise that different sectors offer different skills and resources and have different ways of operating.

IBLF has developed a reputation for its ability to create networks that allow competing companies to discuss issues in a positive manner, or enable businesses to engage with critics or local organisations.

IBLF believes that it is sometimes more effective to play a less active role and facilitate different stakeholders to work together to produce their own solutions, rather than dictating what those solutions should be. As a result, IBLF acts as secretariat or manager to a number of networks.

By bringing people together to build trust and create networks of like-minded individuals, IBLF is able to raise the profile of its goal of putting business at the heart of sustainable development.

Here are the main networks that IBLF is currently working with – click on the links to visit the organisations' own websites.

Business Action for Africa

A coalition of businesses committed to ending poverty in Africa.
IBLF's role: IBLF is a strategic partner of Business Action for Africa. From its launch in July 2005 until February 2007 IBLF provided the administrative framework for Business Action for Africa. Its current role is as a knowledge partner, providing support to enable Business Action for Africa to help businesses tackle poverty through core business models.

www.businessactionforafrica.org

UK Network of the UN Global Compact

A UK focal point for signatories of the world's largest voluntary corporate citizenship initiative.
IBLF's role: Since January 2006 IBLF has hosted the Secretariat of the UK Network, providing neutral facilitation for this company led initiative. During this time IBLF has helped the network to attract new members, and helped raise its profile through the launch of a new website.

www.ungc-uk.net

ENGAGE

ENGAGE is a campaign that aims to increase the quality and extent of employee engagement in the development of healthy and sustainable communities. It aims to build a network of organisations that can advise and support businesses and provide access to employee engagement opportunities.
IBLF's role: IBLF manages ENGAGE together with its sister organisation, Business in the Community.

Voluntary Principles on Security on Human Rights

A set of principles developed to guide extractives companies in balancing the needs for safety while respecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
IBLF's role: IBLF co-hosts the Secretariat alongside Business for Social Responsibility, enabling governments, companies, NGOs and trade associations to resolve challenging issues in a constructive manner.

www.voluntaryprinciples.org