Catalyst Management Services Hosts Pivotal CSI 2024, Launches Groundbreaking Social Initiatives

Catalyst Management Services (CMS) hosted the impactful second edition of Catalysing Social Impact (CSI) 2024 on August 1st and 2nd in New Delhi. The event brought together over 300 civil society organisations, social investors, and policymakers, unveiling significant social initiatives and collaborative partnerships to address critical social challenges.

Catalyst Management Services (CMS) successfully hosted the second edition of Catalysing Social Impact (CSI) 2024 on August 1st and 2nd at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The event saw a gathering of over 300 civil society organisations, social impact investors, government officials, policymakers, and social entrepreneurs, all focused on addressing urgent social issues and presenting innovative solutions.

Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, a key figure from the Government of India's Capacity Building Commission, delivered an inspiring keynote at the opening plenary session. He highlighted the need for collective action and the importance of horizontal enablers in scaling impact and sustainability. One key moment of the event was the signing of an agreement between the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and Swasti, The Health Catalyst. This collaboration aims to connect extreme weather events with health outcomes for vulnerable communities, launching a new Weather and Disease Tracker Prototype.

The forum also saw the launch of CMS's Social Protection Coalition, addressing the gap in social protection coverage in India. This coalition, joined by 117 organisations, aims to expand access to social protection for the country's most vulnerable. Additionally, several other initiatives were introduced, including the India Health Collaborative under Catalyst 2030, and the Meaningful Business MB 100 India chapter. The TATA Steel Foundation also presented a 'Human Library,' a living archive of impactful community leaders who shared their personal stories of resilience.

Day 1 featured discussions on collaboration between the development sector and the government, including a session on micro-equity for women entrepreneurs. Day 2 highlighted the CSI Awards, recognising exceptional contributions from community champions. Notable awards included the Best Social Impact Idea Award to PANI and AALI for their work in women's empowerment and gender equality. Indian Grameen Services received the Best Social Impact Organization Award for 25 years of service, while Buzz Women earned a special jury mention for their efforts in empowering women.

The event underscored CMS's commitment to catalysing positive social change through collaboration and innovation. Established in 1995, CMS has extended its impact across India and 25 other countries, working in areas like health, livelihoods, and climate through the Catalyst Group's various entities.

(With inputs from agencies.)