The private sector is a segment of the national and international economy that is owned and directed by private individuals and entities. It encompasses a spectrum of for-profit organisations, ranging from micro, small and medium enterprises to large and global businesses, all engaging in activities within and beyond profit generation. In food systems, these activities can include supply chain actors from production to retail, as well as supportive organisations such as financing, insurance, innovation and technology providers.
Achieving healthier, more inclusive and sustainable food systems requires a fundamental shift in how public and private finance, coordinated action and policy incentives are mobilised and aligned.
Following the 2021 UNFSS Secretary-General’s Call to Action, GAIN enhanced its engagement with the private sector to translate global food systems and nutrition commitments into concrete investments, partnerships and market-based solutions that improve access to safe, affordable and nutritious foods in priority countries.
While working with the private sector has been part of GAIN’s DNA from the outset, this engagement has evolved over time — from supporting private sector development and partnerships with micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to collaborating with large and international private sector actors in low- and middle-income countries, as well as business associations.