Economic Partnerships

The Austrian Development Agency (ADA) supports sustainable development projects of small and medium-sized enterprises in selected countries of the Global South and East through economic partnerships. With a grant of up to €300,000 at a funding rate of 50%, a balanced ratio between economic benefit for the funding company and development policy relevance on site is established. The funding areas cover foreign trade, corporate financing, trade fair participation, as well as consulting services. The program extends over a maximum duration of 36 months and includes both study and preparation costs as well as project costs for personnel and material resources. The projects must have a development policy impact – for example, by improving infrastructure, strengthening local value chains, and promoting decent working conditions. In addition to feasibility, the contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a central evaluation criterion.

Eligible to participate are SMEs headquartered in Austria, the EEA, or Switzerland, which bear at least 50% of the project costs themselves and operate in ODA recipient countries according to the OECD list. For the application, a detailed project description, a financing plan, proof of equity capital, as well as proof of technical capacities are required. Cooperation with local partners strengthens the broad impact and is positively considered in the evaluation. Project-related milestones and a structured timeline increase the chances of success. Applications can be submitted from July 2, 2024, to December 31, 2099, with ADA guidelines and checklists supporting the application process and ensuring transparency.