The Youth Employment Network is a partnership among the United Nations, the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Bank. This paper, which examines eight case studies, demonstrates how business can effectively partner with civil society, multilateral institutions and government in harnessing the potential of West African youth to improve their own business operations, while at the same time contributing to wider development objectives. By working with public actors on issues of education, skills training and business development, companies are not only forming their next generation of employees and customers but are also enhancing their corporate image, marketing their brand and improving the environment in which they do business. The partnering governments, institutions and organizations also benefit from this arrangement, as business brings the financial resources, technical skills and management expertise needed to enhance the impact of youth employment programmes. The report outlines the rationale for business engagement in youth employment and summarizes the main areas where business contribution can have the greatest impact on the employment situation for youth.