Sustainable matchmaking between SMEs: in emerging economies and the Netherlands
Sustainable Match is an initiative of six complementary Dutch parties (Agri-ProFocus, BBO, MVO Nederland, Oxfam Novib, PeopleConnector, ProPortion) that has been executed between 2012 and 2013 on innovating trade and investment missions in anticipation of the new policy for international cooperation of the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs (PDF). By means of two pilots in Uganda and Bangladesh, an innovative approach for sustainable “matchmaking” was developed. Their publication (PDF) highlights lessons learned in sustainable matchmaking between small and medium enterprises in emerging economies and the Netherlands. An important lesson learned is that local knowledge and presence and cooperation with local partners are essential to match entrepreneurs in sustainable and inclusive international business partnerships.