The private sector – in relation to family planning (FP) – is defined as non-state market actors with direct, supporting, or enabling functions aimed at increasing access, availability and use of FP products and services. These include a wide range of actors: commercial for-profit, faith-based, and non-profit; US-based, local and international; formal and informal sectors, including traditional and community health providers.

While this a relatively broad definition, the commercial for-profit, and health provider segments (outside of faith-based and non-profit / SMO) as well as other actors noted above would benefit from more clear inclusion and valuation associated with their role in the FP equation.

The Private Sector Subcommittee was formally established in January 2020 with the goal of planning and generating activities to increase the strategic visibility and engagement of the private sector at ICFP.

The work of this subcommittee is important as forecasts of stagnating (or declining) donor funding for family planning raises concerns about the future and triggers more focus on the private sector’s ability to meet users’ needs. While the topic of sexual and reproductive health is highly visible and demand is growing, there is a need to mobilize private sector resources and participation.

Historical participation of large innovator manufacturers and social marketing organizations at ICFP is well-recognized and valued. This subcommittee strives to engage with those actors as well as additional segments of the private sector, to increase the reach to organizations that play a significant and growing role in enabling and providing family planning related services and products.