The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is pleased to announce the signing of a new partnership with Entrepreneurial Solutions Partners (ESP) to promote small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Côte d'Ivoire.  The Capacity Building Program for SMEs is an innovative project that will create nearly 2,500 jobs, including 1,500 in rural areas.  This public-private partnership aims to transform the entrepreneurial landscape and to inspire a generation of youth and women business leaders.

For this three-year project valued at $1.5 million US dollars, USAID has allocated nearly $700,000, while ESP will contribute more than $800,000.  With the support of Experts Comptables Réunis and Kaizen Institute, ESP will provide technical assistance to help twenty SMEs to understand accounting, finances, a strategy for growth, and operational aspects that they can use to run their businesses on a day-to-day basis.

While Côte d'Ivoire seeks to consolidate peace, these national champions are the missing link in inspiring a generation of young people and women.

Mr. Jeff Bryan, the Country Director of USAID/Côte d’Ivoire, welcomed this new initiative that reflects the values ​​of the American people.  For him, the purpose of USAID's assistance is to foster inclusive economic growth and create sustainable income opportunities so that USAID's presence is no longer needed in Côte d'Ivoire.  "We are delighted with this partnership as it will work to empower a team of young and ambitious Ivoirians who will help to improve the well-being of all Ivoirians," he stated.

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Note to the Editor

USAID is the world's premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results.  USAID's work advances U.S. national security and economic prosperity, demonstrates American generosity, and promotes a path to recipient self-reliance and resilience.