The development of
creative industries and impact investment was discussed by experts at the
Creative Central Asia international meeting in Almaty. The event brought
together both regional specialists and analysts from the UK. According to them,
impact investments are long-term investments primarily aimed at addressing
social issues. They help develop projects in film, music, art, and design.
Notably, according to Deloitte, the volume of global impact investments was
estimated at over $1 billion in 2023. Currently, 36 major funds are operating
in the creative industry.
«A company that
receives such investments uses the funds to become more sustainable while
fulfilling its social mission. For example, it may work
with vulnerable segments of the population. When we have an evidence base, we
can report to investors, the market, and our customers, showing that what we do
is more than just a mere exchange of goods for money,» noted Nastia
Goncharova, mentor of the creative entrepreneurship development program.
According to experts, impact
investments in Kazakhstan are still in the early stages of development. Despite
this, the contribution of the creative industry to the country’s economy is
expected to reach five percent this year, employment in the sector is projected
to grow by four percent, and the number of small and medium-sized businesses in
creative industries is anticipated to increase 1.5 times.
«The presence of
impact entrepreneurs and the creative industry always responds to public
demand. The population is ready to consume more complex
cultural products. People are also willing to engage in environmental issues
and cultural activities. Take Almaty as an example, where culture and the
service sector play a significant role, making it a naturally creative city. I
believe that entrepreneurs in the creative industries generate around 30-40
percent of the city’s overall output,» said impact assessment expert
Saule Mamayeva.
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