International Business Leaders Forum

International Business Leaders Forum (IBLF)

Goal:
Establish Brand Identity for an International Organization in the U.S. Marketplace

Challenge:
IBLF has been working with Global Fortune 500 companies for nearly 17 years to address international development issues.  Using tailored strategies, IBLF helps corporations generate internal support; build capacity among senior leadership; create awareness programming; and broker partnerships among companies, governments and multilateral organizations to achieve the greatest impact. IBLF retained Odell, Simms & Lynch, Inc. (OSL) in 2006 to better define the value proposition, differentiate IBLF from other NGOs and build its brand and reputation among U.S. corporations.  OSL was also tasked with increasing IBLF’s operating funds for both core organizational activities and specific programs.

Solution:
OSL worked closely with IBLF to more clearly define the organization’s unique offering and appeal to U.S. corporations, moving it from a membership-focused entity to one based around value-for-dollar partnerships.  In addition, OSL tested variations of IBLF’s message among the target audience of senior executives to hone in on resonant points, identify market gaps and forecast the emerging priorities of key prospects.  Highlighting IBLF’s unique experience and credibility, OSL has been able to carve out a firm place in the market for IBLF as the premiere international corporate social responsibility organization.

Result:
Within months of refining IBLF's message and offerings for the U.S. market, OSL cultivated an active pipeline of over 150 Fortune 500 companies across all major industries and sectors. More than a third of these prospects have expressed definite interest in partnering with IBLF to benefit from the organization's strategic counsel and participate in social action initiatives around the world. As such, OSL has helped IBLF to strengthen its network, expand its U.S.-based initiatives and generate additional funding from the U.S. market to further worldwide programming.