Andrew Mack Speaks at World Resources Institute – 5.23.2007
The DC chapter of the International Private Enterprise Group hosted Andrew Mack at its May 23rd meeting. Organized by Rob Katz of NextBillion.net, Andrew presented on the topic, "A Day in the Life of a Bottom of the Pyramid (BOP) Consultant." The term “BOP” refers to the four billion people who live on less than $2 per day, typically in developing countries, who have been historically largely ignored by large companies and Governments alike. The phrase “bottom of the pyramid” has come to designate not the poverty, but the potential of the world’s poorest citizens as entrepreneurs, employees and consumer markets.
In his talk, Mack noted that working with the BOP requires new strategies, and fundamentally, a change in how companies view their role in the developing world. As part of his extensive experience working in Latin America, Asia and Africa, Andrew was asked to comment on the opportunities and trends affecting the BOP. He discussed trends in technology, connectivity, personal finance, micro-franchising and other areas. Mack also touched on the innovative and entrepreneurial nature of the BOP in the tech space in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Finally, Andrew responded to questions from the audience about the founding of AMGlobal, his work in BOP markets, and the kinds of skills needed by both consultants and companies interested in working with the BOP. He also fielded questions about his work in Public Private Partnership (PPP), and his work developing PPP projects at the World Bank and since.
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