What Is the Toilet Board Coalition?
The Toilet Board Coalition is a global business-led platform on a mission to accelerate solutions to the sanitation crisis. Founded in 2015 by multinational giants Unilever, LIXIL, and Kimberly-Clark, this coalition connects local sanitation innovators, global business leaders, and investors. Their goal? To drive progress on water and sanitation for all by 2030, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6). Through collaboration and innovation, the Coalition supports entrepreneurs in low-income markets, helping them scale smart, sustainable sanitation solutions that truly make a difference.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
The Coalition’s flagship program, the Accelerator, is a powerhouse for change. It offers business model coaching, corporate mentorship, and access to investment for Sanitation Economy entrepreneurs. The impact so far? Pretty impressive:
- 88 SMEs graduated
- More than 5.7 million people impacted daily
- US$40 million unlocked in finance
- Over 80 diverse members driving innovation
These numbers tell a story of real progress—bringing essential sanitation solutions to those who need them most.
How the Accelerator Program Works
The Accelerator is designed to fast-track businesses tackling sanitation challenges in low-income communities. Entrepreneurs get hands-on coaching and mentorship from corporate leaders who bring years of expertise. This isn’t just about funding; it’s about shaping sustainable business models that can scale and create lasting impact. The program fosters innovation in everything from toilet design to circular recovery of biological resources and smart digital technologies. It’s a holistic approach that ensures sanitation solutions are safe, sustainable, and accessible.
Engaging Private Sector Partners
The Toilet Board Coalition actively invites private sector partners to join the fight against the sanitation crisis. By collaborating with businesses across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, the Coalition accelerates sustainable solutions where they’re needed most. This engagement creates a powerful network that combines resources, expertise, and innovation to tackle one of the world’s most pressing challenges. It’s a win-win: businesses get to be part of meaningful change, and communities gain access to improved sanitation.
Investment Opportunities in Sanitation
Investors looking to make a difference find a unique opportunity through the Coalition. By matching promising sanitation innovations with progressive investors, the Toilet Board Coalition bridges the gap between capital and impact. Whether it’s a small startup or a growing enterprise, the Coalition connects investors with businesses that have the potential to transform sanitation markets worldwide. This approach not only fuels growth but also ensures that investments lead to sustainable, scalable solutions.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The Coalition’s work touches multiple SDGs, highlighting how sanitation is interconnected with health, innovation, sustainable communities, and global partnerships. It’s a comprehensive effort that goes beyond toilets—it’s about building a healthier, more sustainable future for billions.
Voices from the Coalition
Leaders within the Coalition emphasize the power of private sector involvement. Erin McCusker, Senior Vice President at LIXIL and Toilet Board Coalition Chair, highlights how sanitation is critical to achieving global goals beyond just SDG 6.2. Jenny Lewis, former Chair and Kimberly-Clark Foundation VP, shares how mentoring entrepreneurs connects with Kimberly-Clark’s purpose of Better Care for a Better World. Aalap Sharma from Unilever notes that partnerships bring together multinational corporations and innovative entrepreneurs, strengthening strategy and accelerating sustainability. Meanwhile, Alma Alejandro from Kimberly-Clark finds the Accelerator experience inspiring, praising the entrepreneurs’ passion for agile, impactful business models. These voices reflect a shared commitment to transforming sanitation through collaboration and innovation.
