Open, inclusive and diverse societies are better for business and better for economic growth.
The Open For Business reports present the evidence base that supports this: demonstrating that businesses thrive in tolerant societies and that the spread of anti-LGBT+ policies runs counter to the interests of business and economic development.
The economic and business case identifies 27 propositions that show LGBT+ inclusion goes hand-in-hand with increased economic performance, business performance, and individual performance. These propositions are supported by hundreds of academic studies, business reports, data sets, and expert opinions. Explore the propositions below.
The Open For Business report brings together a broad base of research undertaken from different perspectives and with different geographical foci, and identifies themes that are globally relevant.
Special Focus
Our Special Focus reports expand on the economic and business case by providing in-depth analysis on certain regions, topics, or industries. The purpose of these reports is to provide targeted evidence for civil society leaders, business leaders, and others to make specific, high-impact arguments in support of LGBT+ inclusion.
New Global Champions
Produced in partnership with Boston Consulting Group, this report is the first-ever analysis of the financial impacts of LGBT+ inclusion on some of the fastest growing companies headquartered in emerging markets. LGBT+ inclusion allows high-potential emerging-market companies to more effectively connect with global markets and supply chains, without seeing any negative financial impacts.
Taiwan
Marriage for same-sex couples can help Taiwan develop its economic competitiveness and facilitate an environment for companies to thrive. Particularly, the freedom to marry and LGBT+ inclusion can help Taiwan to shift to high-value industries and foster innovation; slow the economic losses that may result from demographic shifts; and help companies perform better as a result of their commitment to inclusion and diversity.
Kenya
LGBT+ inclusion is a key ingredient for sustained economic growth in Kenya. LGBT+ discrimination costs the country 1.7% of GDP per year, mainly through unequal health outcomes, inefficient allocation of human capital and lost tourism revenue. A focus on LGBT+ inclusion can boost Kenya’s cities, start-up ecosystems and help the country reach its Vision 2030 goals. Inclusive companies in Kenya also perform better, as evidence in the report shows.
Cities
LGBT+ inclusive cities are more economically competitive. This special focus report identifies the driving factors behind this trend, provides case studies on cities around the world focused on LGBT+ inclusion, and launches the Open For Business City Ratings.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica became the first Central American country to legalize civil marriage for same-sex couples in May 2020. Open For Business worked with Si Acepto to show that businesses strongly support doing business in LGBT+ inclusive countries with the freedom for same-sex couples to marry.
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