Swisscontact Company Profile

Background

Swisscontact is an independent non-profit development organization established in 1959 by representatives of the Swiss private sector and civil society. The organization focuses on private sector-led, sustainable economic development to improve the quality of life in developing and emerging countries. Swisscontact's mission is to unleash the potential of private initiatives, fostering sustainable and inclusive economic development. Over the past six decades, Swisscontact has evolved to address various global challenges, including industrialization, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development.

Key Strategic Focus

Swisscontact's strategic focus encompasses four primary areas:

1. Skills Development: Enhancing vocational education and training to equip individuals with market-relevant skills.

2. Enterprise Promotion: Strengthening the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through value chain development, regional economic development, and entrepreneurship support.

3. Inclusive Finance: Facilitating access to financial services for low-income populations by supporting local microfinance institutions and developing financial products tailored to SMEs.

4. Climate-Smart Economy: Promoting environmentally sustainable practices and technologies to create jobs and income opportunities in developing countries.

These focus areas aim to integrate disadvantaged groups into the economy, fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Financials and Funding

In 2023, Swisscontact reported a project volume of CHF 104.5 million, slightly down from CHF 105.2 million in the previous year. This minor decrease was attributed to delays and adjustments in project implementation due to conflicts and sanctions in various countries. Donations and contributions, excluding the federal programme contribution, increased to CHF 14.6 million, up from CHF 14 million in the previous year, primarily due to higher project contributions from private donors. Expenses for communication and fundraising in 2023 amounted to CHF 848,000, representing 0.9% of total expenses. The share of administration in total expenditure was reduced to 5.4% in 2023, down from 5.7% in the previous year. The consolidated financial statements closed with a profit of CHF 791,000, bringing the organizational capital to CHF 16.1 million.

Pipeline Development

Swisscontact implements approximately 133 projects across 41 countries, focusing on skills development, enterprise promotion, inclusive finance, and climate-smart economy. Key initiatives include:

• EdUP (Public-Private Partnership to Improve Professional Education in Ukraine): Launched in March 2020, this project aims to align the vocational education system with labor market needs, upgrading training in the construction industry to meet EU standards.

• PROMEL (Local Entrepreneurship Promotion Programme in Niger): This initiative focuses on improving collaboration with institutional partners and the private sector, enhancing market access for businesses, and creating income opportunities for women and young people through education.

These projects are designed to achieve significant milestones in vocational training and economic development within their respective timelines.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Swisscontact leverages various technological platforms and innovative methodologies to enhance project outcomes:

• DigiTrade Toolbox: A digital platform developed to support small producers, cooperatives, and exporters in Honduras, facilitating access to international markets and optimizing commercial capabilities.

• Cool Farm Tool: An application used in the "Paraíso Verde" project to measure carbon footprints and promote climate-smart agricultural practices.

These tools exemplify Swisscontact's commitment to integrating technology and innovation into development projects to achieve sustainable impact.

Leadership Team

Swisscontact's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing the organization's mission:

• Thomas D. Meyer, Chairman: Appointed in 2021, Meyer is a Partner at BLR Partners AG and has held leadership roles in business and strategy consulting at Accenture across Latin America, Africa, and Europe.

• Philippe Schneuwly, CEO: With Swisscontact since 2009, Schneuwly became CEO in 2021. He has served as Country Director for Colombia, Deputy Regional Director, and Regional Director for Central America.

Their combined expertise guides Swisscontact's strategic direction and operational effectiveness.

Leadership Changes

In June 2021, Swisscontact underwent a leadership transition with the appointments of Thomas D. Meyer as Chairman and Philippe Schneuwly as CEO. This change was part of a planned succession to continue the organization's mission effectively.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The international development sector is characterized by a diverse range of organizations focusing on poverty alleviation, economic development, and social inclusion. The market is competitive, with numerous entities striving to implement effective and sustainable development projects worldwide.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the sector include:

• Management Sciences for Health (MSH): Focuses on strengthening health systems in developing countries.

• Pact: Works on health, livelihoods, and governance to improve lives in various regions.

• DAI: Provides development solutions in areas such as governance, health, and economic growth.

• Mercy Corps: Addresses global challenges through humanitarian aid and development programs.

These organizations, like Swisscontact, aim to foster sustainable development and improve living conditions in developing countries.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Swisscontact engages in significant collaborations to enhance its impact:

• Givaudan Foundation: