Competitiveness Councils Launchpad
What Are Competitiveness Councils?
A Competitiveness Council is an independent, non-partisan organization that serves as a vital resource for a country, region, or city. These councils are dedicated to identifying and analyzing the complex issues that affect an area's ability to succeed in the global economy in a sustainable way. They are not affiliated with any specific political party or sector, which allows them to provide an objective perspective. This independence is maintained regardless of their specific governance model, which can be private sector led, government led, or a hybrid.
How They Work
Competitiveness Councils are crucial for helping nations develop a shared understanding of key economic issues. They inform governments, businesses, labor organizations, and the public on the importance and implications of public policies that drive economic growth.
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Through convening and collaboration, they:
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Study economic trends: They analyze the effects of economic changes on a nation's employment patterns, productivity, trade, and other key areas.
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Build consensus: They bring together critical stakeholders to build consensus on shared priorities.
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Promote action: They identify and champion strategies that foster long-term economic growth and deliver a real impact for all stakeholders.
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In essence, Competitiveness Councils are platforms for future-oriented initiatives, from a concept's early stages to its full implementation.
Learn More
The GFCC has created a comprehensive guide on Competitiveness Councils. It provides a detailed look at how these independent, multi-sector bodies act to accelerate growth and prosperity.
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In this guide, you will:
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Learn about their origins and key roles.
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Discover how councils are established and funded.
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See how they influence policy and ignite innovation.
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Get the insider's look at how leaders are building a more competitive world.
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We invite you to download, read, and share this essential guide.
Catalyze Your Region's Economic Future
We provide expert guidance to help you establish your local Competitiveness Council and build a strong foundation for long-term growth and innovation.
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We can assist you in:
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Mapping key stakeholders needed for your council's success.
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Designing your local Council tailored to your region's unique needs.
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Educating local leaders in government, business, education and civil society about the vital role of competitiveness and innovation.
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Supporting the development of a comprehensive competitiveness policy program to drive your region's economic future.
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Equipping your Council team with the knowledge and skills needed to operate effectively.
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Supporting the creation of actionable strategies that will enhance your region's competitive position.
Our Work in Practice: Councils We've Supported
Established in May 2025, the Advisory Council on Competitiveness (ACC) of Bulgaria is an independent private sector led body created to boost the nation's productivity and prosperity. Drawing inspiration from the GFCC, the ACC works to enhance Bulgaria's global standing by promoting innovation, technological advancement and international development for the country's businesses, educational institutions and industry organizations.
Compete.GR, the Council on Competitiveness of Greece, is an independent, private sector led organization founded in 2018 after an agreement among 14 Greek partners, following a deal between the GFCC President Deborah Wince-Smith and the AmCham President Simos Anastasopoulos (currently President of Compete.GR).
The Australian Advisory Board on Competitiveness, a private sector led organization, was established in March 2018 to drive the US-Australian partnership and facilitate discussions on common challenges, opportunities and promote business and research collaboration. Its mission is to support a strong scientific capability, business innovation and commercialisation of new ideas, as critical to productivity and economic growth for Australia.