USAID Value Chain Training Curriculum, 2007

Description
The Microenterprise Development office of USAID offers a flexible curriculum for a three- to five-day value chain training course, which is designed to train practitioners and USAID mission and project staff in the value chain approach and its applications. As a result of this training, participants are able to use the value chain approach as a tool for understanding trends in global markets and conditions under which micro- and small enterprises can contribute to and benefit from the increased competitiveness that globalization brings.

This training covers the following major topics:
- Understanding the conceptual foundations of the value chain approach
- Selecting promising value chains in which to work
- Analyzing the structure and dynamics of value chains
- Developing strategies to overcome constraints and increase value chain competitiveness
- Catalyzing private-sector stakeholders to collaborate for improved industry performance

The training includes examples of how the value chain framework can be integrated into program design. It uses case studies to guide participants through the process of industry selection, value chain analysis, identification of potential interventions, development of a competitiveness strategy, and drafting of an implementation plan. The training prepares the participant to lead a value chain analysis team, develop a strategy for competitiveness through a participatory process, and facilitate a stakeholder workshop to articulate an action plan.

Each of the 5 core modules includes the following downloadable components:
- One to two core PowerPoint presentations
- Optional exercises to reinforce key learning points
- Related handouts for participants and exercises
- Links to additional resources on the module topic
- Guidance for training facilitators (embedded in the "Notes" section of the PowerPoint presentations)

USAID is currently developing the following additional modules:
- Monitoring Performance and Assessing Impact
- Developing and Facilitating an Upgrading Strategy
- Business Enabling Environment
- Using ICT in Value Chain Development
- Value Chain Development in Conflict-Affected Environments
- Value Chain Finance
These modules will be finalized with input from ongoing regional value chain workshops.

The curriculum and related documents may be downloaded at the website above.



Associated Activities and Documents
Market Assessment
»	Value Chain Analysis, 2007
Synthesis Documents
»	Value chains: Some key links (2011)