Document: Capacity-Building and Human Resource Development Framework for Inclusive Businesses in ASEAN

Time: 09/2025

Authors: ASEAN and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)

The Capacity-Building and Human Resource Development Framework for Inclusive Businesses in ASEAN (hereinafter referred to as the Capacity-Building Framework) is the result of a collaborative process between ASEAN Member States and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). The Capacity-Building Framework was jointly developed by ASEAN Member States in cooperation with ESCAP, drawing on a wide range of reference materials, in particular the Guidelines for Promoting Inclusive Businesses in ASEAN and the Model Framework for the ASEAN Inclusive Business Accreditation System. This document also draws on content from Developing Inclusive Agribusiness: A Toolkit for Businesses and Inclusive Business Coaching: A Toolkit for Business Support Organizations developed by ESCAP.

This Framework was developed to provide guidance to ASEAN Member States, particularly agencies and ministries responsible for the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Its primary objective is to enhance enterprises’ capacity to develop inclusive business (IB) models, while simultaneously fostering human resources capable of supporting this type of enterprise. The Framework serves as a valuable reference for enterprises, entrepreneurs, public sector officials, lecturers, training experts, and business support organizations seeking to promote business models that pursue not only profit but also generate positive social impact.

The English soft copy of the document is attached here:
Capacity-Building and Human Resource Development Framework for Inclusive Businesses in ASEAN