Approach
The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) provides a network of development policy experts to the private sector in around 40 countries – Business Scouts for Development.
In Germany, the Business Scouts advise companies directly via business associations, Chambers of Trade and Industry (IHKs), Chambers of Skilled Crafts (HWKs), federal state associations and foundations. In the partner countries, they are integrated into German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs) and German business delegations or German development cooperation. The project is expanding cooperation with private sector stakeholders in Europe.
The Business Scouts liaise between the private sector and development cooperation. They are familiar with the needs of the private sector and know the local conditions and regulatory requirements in the countries. The network develops innovative approaches, can demonstrate flexibility when taking on new topics and initiate specific cooperation projects with the private sector.
Current priority areas are:
- Climate
- Sustainable supply chain management
- Digitalisation
Further focus topics of the programme are:
- Health
- Energy and the environment
- Technical and vocational education and training
- Crafts
- Agribusiness and the food industry
- Sustainable economic development
- Cooperation with foundations
- Support for trade fairs
Last update: February 2022