KATALYST - Implementation, Bangladesh 2002-2007
| Implementing agency(ies) | GIZ (formerly GTZ), Swisscontact (SC) | |
|---|---|---|
| Funding agency(ies) | CIDA, Department for International Development (DFID), SDC, Sida | |
| Date completed | September 2006 | |
| Country(ies) | Bangladesh |
- Description
KATALYST's objective is to impact on poverty alleviation by improving the competitiveness of selected sectors in the economy. It aims to enhance competitiveness by developing business services markets that improve SMEs access to knowledge, information and skills vital for growth. It also works to improve the enabling environment so that SMEs reduce costs and risks in setting-up and running businesses.
KATALYST identifies key constraints and opportunities in sectors and promotes mechanisms that improve business performance. Instead of providing direct support to enterprises, the project promotes market forces to take the lead and encourages proactive private sector participation. Cross-cutting issues of Gender and ESRB (Environmentally and Socially Responsible Business) are integrated in all aspects of the project.
KATALYST is currently active in more than 30 sectors: manufacturing sectors such as plastics, furniture, agro tools; agricultural sectors like pond fishery, vegetables, maize and poultry and in service sectors, e.g. accounting, marketing and quality management. KATALYST also works with business associations to improve the enabling environment for businesses. The project¿s activities run nationwide with a special focus on areas in and around Dhaka, Faridpur, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Bogra and Jessore.
KATALYST has recently upgraded their website and now a wide range of design and progress documents are available on sector strategies and interventions. Selected documents are also posted here. See the links below.