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The World Economic Forum found that $514 billion could be added to the global economy if the countries in their study increased rankings in the Global Social Mobility Index by 10 points.  While many of the impediments to improving social mobility are inherent in one’s place of birth, gender, family history, racial and ethnic background, it is generally agreed that moving the needle on economic, occupational and educational mobility can support in changing outcomes.  

Effective strategies require innovative and collaborative efforts from government, private sector and community-based organizations.  When successful, increased social mobility results in greater financial and economic opportunities and intergenerational wealth, with the result being stabilized individuals, families and communities.

How can we effectively address the barriers to homeownership for low and middle-income families? How does improved access to capital influence local economies, and what are the broader economic benefits? How is technology, especially fintech, innovating around financing and capital access? What is the role of financial institutions in improving access for underrepresented groups?

As technology advances, the future of work is being reshaped in profound ways. Legacy industries continue to evolve while under the threat of obsolescence while shifting consumer trends and preferences require companies to demonstrate increased agility. 

New and emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, robotics, and big data—are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the jobs of the future, by shifting jobs between sectors, transforming the kinds of tasks that are done in existing jobs, and changing how people connect to work. Traditional employment is beginning to look more and more like “gig” work, with unpredictable work schedules and more precarious working conditions and rewards.

The pandemic unleashed new levels of entrepreneurial energy, while also resetting expectations between workers and employers. If harnessed properly, new technologies have the potential to create new industries, occupations, and jobs. Rather than simply replacing human labor, technology can augment it. Tech can also be a boon to people with disabilities and has the potential to help increase human productivity as well as job quality. Every industrial revolution has also served as an incubator for innovation, that transformed and accelerated the adaptation of new technologies.

How can entrepreneurs thrive in the new digital economy? Can AI create as many jobs as it upends, even while increasing productivity and GDP? What strategies should businesses adopt to remain competitive and resilient in the face of changing work trends? How can we ensure the workplace of tomorrow is inclusive and offers shared opportunities? How are remote work and digital nomadism impacting entrepreneurship? What qualities and skills will be essential for leadership in the workplace of the future? 

Companies around the world engage in community investment efforts to promote development and benefit local stakeholders in their areas of operation. Done well, community investment can help establish mutually beneficial relationships between a company and its stakeholders (internal and external), contribute toward long-term improvements in the quality of life for local communities, and help create an environment conducive to private investment.

While the biggest contribution a company normally makes is in the positive impact of the business itself—through employment, contracts, its supply chain, and payment of taxes— voluntary community investment programs offer an important additional avenue for enhancing positive impacts and socioeconomic benefits.

Good practice in this area is evolving. Companies are moving away from philanthropic donations and to more sophisticated and strategic ways of planning and delivering their community investment programs. There is greater emphasis on the business case—on viewing community investment through the lens of risks and opportunities, and on creating “shared value” by aligning business goals with the development priorities of local stakeholders.

Even with the increased involvement of the private sector, federal, local and state governments, along with the vast experience and representation of community-based groups remain essential in effective deployment of community investments throughout the stages of project development.

Define “community investment” and why is it crucial for both economic growth and social development? How can we create a long-term vision for community investment that is adaptable to changing economic and social conditions? How can we ensure that community investment benefits all residents, especially traditionally marginalized communities? What are the biggest challenges faced in community investment and what innovative solution have been found? What policies are needed at the local, state or federal level to facilitate effective community investment?

In this dynamic interactive panel/workshop session, branding expert, Nikki Barjon will delve into the world of branding and how it can serve as a catalyst for sustainable and profitable business success. Drawing on her extensive experience working with top celebrities and corporations, Nikki will share success stories and practical insights from her work with world class champions to celebrities and corporations from CBS Television, Bentley Motors, Nike, Martha Stewart to professional athletes and entertainers like T.I., Stephen Curry and more.

Workshop will include:

• Unlocking Celebrity Brand Secrets for Businesses of Every Scale
• Branding’s Impact: The Make or Break for Corporate Giants
• Live-time Case Studies
• Actionable Takeaways