example, training programs in Uganda and thirteen other countries demonstrate a one-of-a-kind approach to harnessing local resources for sustainable development. 98 These trainings enhance participants’ skills in planning and implementing community- driven initiatives, empowering them to lead local development efforts. The lessons for participants include: n Local resources can drive local development, promoting self-reliance. Identifying local communities with unique skills and talents enhances local economies. Community development is, ultimately, human resource development, fostering competitiveness and diversity. n Local organizations can lead communities to address their issues by building relationships, understanding their needs, and facilitating actions. This has ripple effects on government institutions, NGOs, and local communities. “What’s essential for communities is not sharing problems but dreams.” 99 n Local and community-based tourism showcases culture and heritage, boosting community pride and identity. n Building supportive networks of peers and mentors empowers local communities by providing resources and a favorable business environment. It’s not just about economic impact but also social responsibility, community involvement, and business diversity. Envisioning the Future: The Why and What of Impact Bringing finance into the impact ecosystem was important to expand capital into a nascent field. Now it is critically important to work with those same institutions to define the Why and What of impact by putting community at the center of investment. Mizuho Financial Group (Group), Mizuho Securities (Securities), and Japan Post Insurance (Japan Post or Kampo) are examples of leading Japanese institutions to watch. They have long histories in making investments that benefit community and society. They have large diverse Japan and global sustainable finance and ESG portfolios and have made smaller but important commitments in impact investing. These offerings include bonds, loans, equity investments in renewable energy and start-ups. Mizuho has led the development of private sector Blue Bonds and Blue, Green, and Transition GSS bonds. 100 Leaders and colleagues within both institutions also openly admit that defining and measuring impact is very difficult for them.
190
Ten Years in the Making
Powered by FlippingBook