Sport for development - an 'untapped opportunity' 

The report , entitled 'Shared Goals through Sport', states that whereas sport has huge potential as a catalyst for positive change in developing nations, effective partnerships in the area of sport for development "remain limited in number".

Nevertheless, the IBLF thinks that interest in sport for development is "likely to spike over the next two to three years" as a number of high profile sporting events will be hosted in developing countries - such as the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and the football World Cup in South Africa in 2010. 

"A stronger collective will from governments, companies and NGOs to work together could increase this influence and reap bigger benefits," said Adrian Hodges, managing director at the IBLF, which works with business, governments and civil society to enhance companies' contribution to sustainable development. 

According to the report, many corporations are already engaged in sport in several ways, whether through marketing, advertising and sponsorship or by supporting community-based sport. Others provide sport-related goods and services. "In many cases, there are opportunities to make creative links between these activities and sport for development objectives," states the IBLF. 

For example, partnerships with sport stakeholders can help companies "achieve social investment objectives, better motivate their employees and help access new markets". For this reason, as well as to meet international development objectives, the report wishes to encourage more private sector engagement in sport for development partnerships. 

Another report launched on 28 February 2008 gives an insight into the education, health and environment community programmes of Europe's 18 most powerfull football clubs. According to the report, "highlights include the many innovative ways in which G-14 clubs utilise their brands, influence and resources, including facilities and player and employee time, to support and raise awareness and money for good causes and community activities".