Jobs: The Surest Path Out of Poverty

Developing countries need more — and better — jobs. Over the next decade, 1.2 billion young people will reach working age. Yet many of these markets are not growing fast enough to provide opportunities at the scale required. Nine out of ten jobs come from the private sector, so building businesses and supporting entrepreneurs is at the core of challenge.

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The World Bank Group is putting job creation at the center of all we do

Jobs create dignity and hope. But they also create demand, self-sufficient economies, safety, and stability. And they unlock opportunity and vast potential for individuals, communities, and our world.

Our Approach

To build economies that convert growth into local jobs, IFC invests in foundational infrastructure, both physical and human capital; we support policy and regulatory reforms that establish business-friendly environments; and we mobilize private investment at scale — by providing capital, equity, guarantees, and political risk insurance.

Originate and Mobilize Private Capital

We are developing new products — and scaling proven platforms — to mobilize more private capital in emerging markets.

Expand Equity Investments

IFC is growing its equity investments to provide the patient, long-term capital that emerging market businesses need to expand.

Adopt New Ways of Working

We are working across the World Bank Group to deliver public and private-sector solutions to clients with greater speed, agility, and impact. 

Deliver More for MSMEs

IFC is revamping how we support MSMEs to channel capital, technical assistance, and digital tools to the businesses that create the most jobs.

Insights & Reports

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Stories of Impact

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