Brain Economy Action Forum

About

The Brain Economy Action Forum, organized by the World Economic Forum and the McKinsey Health Institute, convenes a dynamic group of stakeholders globally to put brain health at the center of global dialogues and drive action toward sustainable economic growth and societal well-being. 

Insights from Action Forum dialogues will inform a report on the transition to a brain economy to be published during the World Economic Forum's 2026 Annual Meeting.

The case for change

Living in today’s world requires resilience, especially in the face of individual and societal shifts, like technological advances, climate change, and evolving geopolitics. These changes call for rethinking our approach to the future and prioritizing key areas for long-term well-being:

Healthy brain development across the lifespan

Proven brain health interventions exist, but many lack access. A lifespan approach - beginning with youth development and education - can promote brain health, enhance cognitive skills, and build brain capital. Proactive measures from childhood to aging can reduce healthcare costs, sustain productivity, and address risks of an aging population.

Resilient and adaptable workforces

As technology and AI reshape the workplace, skills like creativity, resilience, and curiosity are becoming increasingly vital. The World Economic Forum’s 2025 Future of Jobs Report highlights that half of the top skills on the rise are brain-related. Employers who invest in employee brain health and well-being can enhance performance and potentially boost global GDP by up to 12%.

Part of the Centre for Health and Healthcare

The Centre for Health and Healthcare aims to identify and scale up solutions for more resilient, efficient, and equitable healthcare systems to deliver the best possible care and keep people across societies and nations healthy.

Key terms

Brain health

Encompasses mental health, substance use, and other neurological conditions, focusing on preventing disease and promoting optimal brain function to enable individuals to thrive.

Brain capital

A form of human capital that combines brain health with essential cognitive, emotional, and social skills such as analytical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and empathy.

Brain economy

An economic paradigm that prioritizes brain capital as its core asset. Driven by a neuroscience renaissance, it responds to the growing demand for brain skills—cognitive, emotional, and social—in the modern workforce.

Convenings

May 20, 2025

Geneva, Switzerland

Action Forum Session #1: Advancing Brain Health through Policy, Science & Innovation

September 2025

New York, USA

Action Forum Session #2: Harnessing Brain Capital for Growth

January 205

Davos, Switzerland

Brain Economy Insights Report Launch

Get involved with the initiative

Learn more how to get involved with the initiative. 

Brain Economy Action Forum

A World Economic Forum Initiative
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