CWB is a recent initiative of a group of business leaders and academics that strongly believe in the crucial role of businesses in the process of economic development of poor countries and who wish to involve the business community in this process.

2006

• The Catalonia State Legislature passes in Barcelona an act on November 24 incorporating the CEOs Without Borders Foundation. The statement of purpose reads: “To promote the economic growth of developing countries, through the cooperation of businesses." 

• With the Foundation incorporated, four CEOs in Barcelona begin to cooperate with entrepreneurs in Accra, Ghana.

2007

• First meeting of the Advisory Board in Barcelona on January 9. Joan Oliver is elected president of the foundation in Spain.

• First meeting of the Advisory Board in New York on February 6. Xavier Sala-i-Martin is elected president of the foundation in the USA.