Ambassador Danilovich described the MCC as an innovative and vigorous U.S. assistance program. He confirmed the shared vision and commitment between the MCC and IGD and explained how the MCC is reducing poverty through sustainable growth, referencing successes in Morocco and Madagascar. The MCC recognizes that economic growth is the single most important factor in poverty reduction, and that the private sector is the key driver of such growth. The MCC’s effectiveness is very much tied to successfully partnering with the private sector. Ambassador Danilovich asserted the MCC’s commitment to this partnership, which he said will replace poverty with prosperity and provide the poor a fruitful share in the economic lives of their communities.

Ambassador Danilovich invited members of the business community to look closely at MCC investments in partner countries and explore complementary or parallel investments of their own. In addition, he invited foundations and companies with strategic corporate social responsibility initiatives to consider building on MCC programs in countries in which they have an interest. Ambassador Danilovich welcomed continued support and input from IGD and close cooperation with the private sector as the MCC works to reduce poverty.

“Private enterprise is the true engine of economic growth, and the only way countries can combat poverty is not to depend on development assistance alone but, rather, to use it to promote a growing private sector, in which the poor can fully participate.”

-Ambassador John Danilovich

Media

Business leaders at work to end global poverty
The Indianapolis Star, March 16, 2008, Op-ed by Tim Solso and Bill Ruckelshaus, IGD Board members