German software company SAP, a Global Citizen partner, just announced new investments in organizations working to support marginalized communities affected by COVID-19.
SAP announced on June 27 that it will support the Acumen Fund as part of the Global Goal: Unite for Our Future campaign to ensure no one is left behind in the global fight to tackle COVID-19.
Founded in 2001, the Acumen Fund invests in social enterprises serving low-income communities in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Latin America, and the US. The organization aims to “change the way the world tackles poverty” by boosting the potential of sustainable businesses. In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Acumen has activated COVID-19 response funds to support enterprises aiding impacted communities. Before Global Goal: Unite for Our Future, Acumen had already mobilized $7.5 million in emergency COVID-19 funding in support of over 37 social entrepreneurs.
SAP’s commitment to Acumen will help the organization invest more dollars in businesses aiding COVID-19 relief.
SAP has a robust history of corporate social responsibility initiatives that support quality education, entrepreneurship, and inclusion. In light of recent protests sparked by racial inequality and police brutality, SAP is supporting the Equal Justice Initiative, an organization that works to challenge racial and economic injustice. SAP is also growing its economic development programs to strengthen Black-owned businesses and social enterprises by providing them with access to SAP employees. In addition, SAP will help to accelerate organizations serving Black communities through 2021 and beyond as part of the Global Goal: Unite for Our Future campaign.
“Creating meaningful progress toward racial equality and social justice begins within our own company, and at SAP we are committed to ensuring this isn’t just a moment — but that we continue to help power a movement,” said DJ Paoni, president of SAP North America. “In sharing our commitment to taking action toward social justice and building a workforce that better reflects the diverse communities in which we serve, we hope to set new standards for our industry and others. We look forward to sharing our progress.”
SAP’s corporate social responsibility approach helps the company drive opportunities for all people through digital inclusion. Its support of inclusive education and workforce readiness programs contribute to economic, social, and environmental sustainability. By continuing to focus on partnerships with organizations who are experts in their sector, SAP is able to amplify, support, and fund this meaningful work.
“The approach Global Citizen takes to mobilize so many different organizations, sectors, and people is closely aligned with both our value system at SAP and our strategy within corporate social responsibility (CSR),” said Alexandra van der Ploeg, head of CSR at SAP. “We are firm believers in the power of partnerships to create meaningful, lasting change. We look forward to accelerating our support for education, economic opportunity, and social justice reform in partnership with the Global Citizen community around the world.”
To read more about SAP’s response to COVID-19, click here.