In the framework of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of Fundemex , the social arm of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) , the panel Challenges and alliances to promote employment and shared prosperity was held . Business leaders and representatives of key sectors discussed the challenges and opportunities that Mexico faces to promote innovation, labor inclusion and sustainable economic development.
In this space, Teresa Gutiérrez, CEO of Tesla Mexico , began her participation by highlighting the importance of innovation as a central axis for economic growth ; however, she noted that Mexico’s potential in this area is far from being fully exploited.
“We are the 12th largest economy in the world, but we are ranked 58th in terms of innovation. This speaks to an urgent need to invest more in this area,” he said.
Gutiérrez also stressed that personalization and the use of data are essential in interacting with consumers.
“Data is the new gold, and companies must learn to take advantage of it. To do this, we need skilled talent. Today, the best is barely good enough,” he said.
Monica Flores, president of ManpowerGroup , described as shameful the fact that more than 50% of jobs in Mexico belong to the informal sector.
In his view, tackling this problem requires a multi-factor approach that includes education, certifications and regional strategies.
“Reducing informality is not a technical problem, but rather a problem of will. We have little time to act, but with continuous training, certifications and a focus on digital skills, we can achieve significant change,” he said.
Flores pointed out that the future of employment depends not only on technical knowledge, but also on soft skills and the ability to adapt to a globalized market.
For her part, Altagracia Gómez, coordinator of the Advisory Council for Regional Development and Business Relocation, addressed the importance of inclusion in financing and the need to attract foreign investment, without neglecting national investment.
“If we want a more inclusive capital market, we must break down traditional barriers, especially for women and small businesses. This requires not only will, but also clear and sustainable metrics,” she explained.
Gómez also stressed the importance of promoting energy efficiency measures and dual education programs that link academia, government and business.
Finally, Julio Carranza, president of the Mexican Banking Association (ABM) , stressed that financial inclusion is essential for economic development. However, he pointed out that 50% of transactions under 500 pesos in Mexico are still made in cash, which limits the digitalization and formalization of the economy.
“We are concerned about attracting foreign investment, but we forget that national investment is 11 times greater. That is where we must focus our efforts to foster growth,” said Carranza.
The banking leader also highlighted the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Mexican economy, noting that their strengthening is key to combating informality and promoting more equitable prosperity.
Two decades of promoting a more just and equitable Mexico
On November 20, Fundemex , the social arm of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) , commemorated two decades of tireless work to build a more just and equitable Mexico.
“Today we are not only celebrating the achievements of these 20 years, but we are also renewing our commitment to continue transforming lives and communities with the power of the business sector,” said Jorge López, President of the Board of Directors of Fundemex.
Since its founding, Fundemex has worked to connect the country’s social needs with the dynamism of the business sector , channeling resources towards high-impact projects.
In 2022, the organization adopted new approaches that strengthened its mission, such as flagship initiatives such as Transformative Employment , Emplea Diversidad , among others.
The event also highlighted the importance of great results when companies commit to social causes.
An important pillar of Fundemex has been its ability to articulate strategic alliances between companies, communities, civil society and government .
These alliances have made it possible to address local problems with effective solutions , including training programs for vulnerable groups, employment initiatives and regional development projects.
During the celebration, Luis Miguel Pando, Rolando Vega, Alberto Núñez and Martha Smith were recognized for their outstanding work throughout Fundemex’s 20 years.
“The unequal and disproportionate generation of wealth has been a call to find a way to reverse this trend; there are many challenges and opportunities to do so. Mexico has an economy open to the world and an active community, and industry has an important role in the change,” said Martha Smith, founder and advisor of Fundemex.
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