Business Scout for Development

The Business Scouts are well networked worldwide and active in approximately 40 countries. In Germany, they advise companies directly through the leading associations of German business, chambers of commerce and industry (CCI), chambers of crafts, industry associations, state associations and foundation organizations. In the partner countries, they work for the Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHK) and delegations of German business or are integrated in the offices of German development cooperation. Hence, the Business Scouts have a unique expertise: They know the local conditions and regulatory structures as well as the requirements of the private sector. Furthermore, they are directly connected to the German development cooperation on site. This set-up enables new synergies to be achieved and created.

For the private sector, collaboration with German development cooperation is worthwhile. For example, various support programs or the provision of relevant contacts can facilitate entry into new markets. Especially in Africa, many partner countries have great potential as future sales markets, attractive production locations or partners in global supply chains. The Covid-19 pandemic has shown that diversification of value chains and supply sources can contribute to the resilience of German companies during a crisis.

Partnerships with local companies are particularly important. They know the local needs and can thus take over a groundbreaking function for new markets. At the same time, the local private sector benefits from the know-how of German and European companies, and new business relationships and market access are created. Cooperation creates a win-win situation for all parties involved. Unfortunately, the resources, the networks or the necessary knowledge to leverage this potential are often lacking. In order to find the appropriate measures, the Business Scout for Development will guide and support you. The German government pursues the goal of facilitating sustainable economic engagement in partner countries with complementary approaches of foreign trade promotion and development cooperation funding and financing offers.