With less than a decade to meet the 2030 Agenda, Latin America and the Caribbean faces the challenge of transforming their development models against a growing social, environmental and economic urgency. Mexico, thanks to its entrepreneurial capital, its creative youth and new public policy frames, has before it a unique opportunity to consolidate a more equitable, resilient and sustainable growth model. In this scenario, entrepreneurship with purpose is not an alternative option, but a strategic tool to boost high impact solutions that respond to the challenges of our time and accelerate the transition to a more fair, inclusive and prepared country for the future.
As we approach 2030, the deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), face a pressing reality in Latin America and the Caribbean. Time is exhausted and the need for transformative actions is more urgent than ever. In this context, responsible entrepreneurship emerges as a strategic imperative to move towards truly sustainable and equitable development.
Reports of the United Nations System in Mexico identify five priority areas that require sustained attention to advance the SDGs: reduction of inequalities, inclusive growth and decent work, innovation and industrial infrastructure, preservation of terrestrial ecosystems, and institutional strengthening for peace and justice. While Covid-19 pandemic represented an unprecedented challenge, it also opened new opportunities. In this sense, the Mexico 2030 Plan draws an equitable and sustainable economic development model. With goals such as reaching 54% of electricity generation from renewable sources, it constitutes a propitious platform to catalyze entrepreneurship with purpose.
In Mexico, 29% of entrepreneurs are between 18 and 35 years old. There is great potential to channel this energy towards business models that integrate social and environmental purpose with economic profitability. These ventures do not only seek financial return, but also generate positive impact on communities and ecosystems.
The convergence between national priorities and global challenges opens a fertile environment for entrepreneurship with purpose, particularly in strategic sectors. In water and sanitation, infrastructure projects promote solutions for efficient water resource management. In renewable energies, the increase in the participation of clean sources favors business models linked to the energy transition. Circular economy and waste management offer opportunities for business focused on ecosystems. Public digital platforms reduce structural gaps in education, health and finance. And in agriculture, the modernization of productive practices strengthens food security and the preservation of natural resources.
The responsible entrepreneurship ecosystem continues to be strengthened with initiatives such as the group 100+ of Grupo Modelo. This program promotes sustainable projects in areas such as intelligent agriculture, biodiversity, climatic action and inclusive growth. By providing financing and accompaniment, it facilitates the implementation of solutions to environmental and social challenges. As its president, Cassiano de Stefano points out, these challenges “cannot be resolved in isolation.”
It is also key to develop capacities from early stages. ENACTUS MEXICO, part of a global network present in more than 30 countries, mobilizes university students to create projects with social, environmental and economic impact. With presence in more than 90 higher education institutions in 22 states, it promotes more than 100 projects per year. This platform strengthens technical and social skills while encouraging a culture of innovation with purpose. Spaces such as these allow young talent to connect with real causes from the formative stage, generating value proposals from an ethical, sustainable and collaborative vision. His work demonstrates that sowing a transformative mentality in youth is a strategic investment in the present of the country.
Entrepreneurships generate value in multiple dimensions. They demonstrate greater capacity to adapt to complex contexts, and in responding to real needs, strengthen relations of trust and financial sustainability. The increase in impact investments in Mexico and Latin America expands access to financing for responsible projects. At the same time, consumers, especially young people, prefer brands that clearly communicate their commitment to sustainability.
Given the proximity of 2030, an effective collaboration between ecosystem actors is essential. Entrepreneurs can strengthen their impact by integrating the SDGs as a strategic guide, establishing alliances and developing clear metrics. Investors can adapt their criteria to assess the impact, offer patient capital and provide guidance. Educational institutions have the ability to incorporate sustainability in training, promote applied research and generate spaces for linking with the environment. From the public sector, regulatory frameworks and public purchasing schemes with sustainable approach can be strengthened, creating a more conducive environment for these models.
The 2030 horizon represents a historical opportunity to redefine our development model. The 2030 Agenda and its promise of not leaving anyone behind are more relevant than ever. Entrepreneurship with purpose is consolidated as a specific way to respond comprehensively to social, economic and environmental challenges. Promoting business models that put people and the planet in the center is key to moving towards a fair and resilient future.
Mexico is facing a strategic decision. You can bet on traditional models or strengthen entrepreneurship with purpose as a transformation engine. The initiatives that combine social and environmental impact with innovation and economic sustainability are not only viable, but fundamental to build a more equitable society. In times of change, undertaking with purpose represents a bold, ethical and intelligent commitment. Mexico has talent, creativity and conviction to lead this change. Betting on impact is not just an option: it is a strategy to build the country we want. The time to act is not tomorrow, it is today.
About the author:
*Luis Antonio Ramírez García is a specialist in public policy from the University of Georgetown
The opinions expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily represent any organization.
The opinions expressed are only the responsibility of their authors and are completely independent of the position and the editorial line of Forbes Mexico.
Follow business information and today in Forbes Mexico
Do you like to inform yourself for Google News? Follow our showcase to have the best stories
