Client: United States Agency for International Development

Website: www.macedonia21.com

This project supports initiatives to stimulate foreign and domestic investment, capture higher value export markets, and generate significant numbers of new jobs for Macedonia. MCP’s integrated approach implements cost-effective, market-oriented solutions to sector-specific challenges as well those affecting Macedonia’s overall export growth. Activities are on vertical and horizontal levels.

Vertical activities create new business and investment while enabling Macedonian companies and supply chains to better compete within a specific industry or market. Components include: apparel, light manufacturing, and information and communication technology (ICT).

Horizontal or cross-cutting activities benefit multiple sectors and make Macedonia a more competitive place to do business. Components include: access to finance, workforce development, and foreign direct investment (FDI).

MCP market-led interventions typically involve:

• Market linkages with international companies resulting in new export deals and strategic partnerships involving joint business ventures, investment and knowledge/technology transfer.
• New foreign investment—green field, brown field or joint venture—leading to export-oriented job creation and the strengthening of supply chains and industries within Macedonia.
• Financing—debt or equity—for Macedonian companies to improve profitability, competitiveness and market positioning through investments in capacity expansion, productivity upgrades and product development.
• Adoption of modern technologies and practices and compliance with certifications to perform and be seen as credible partners.
• Investments in students and employees, resulting in a workforce with upgraded skills and flexibility.
• MCP leverages USAID funds through intensive collaboration with local implementing partners (who often offer in-kind services) and cost-sharing activities with project beneficiaries. Cost-sharing is a critical element to not only stretch available funds, but increase the likelihood of success and sustainability, as beneficiaries have a greater stake and ownership in the process.

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