We are delighted to inform you that Ecorys is currently leading a project for the EU Delegation in Egypt, whose overall purpose is to contribute to the stabilisation of Egypt by promoting sustainable economic development and hence improving the prospects of its citizens. Specifically, the objective is to facilitate inclusive growth and job creation.

The project started in January 2022 and the expected period of execution of the contract will be 10 months from this date. The implementation team is composed of 2 two people, one team leader (expert in finance and financial instruments) and one key expert (expert with experience in economic governance, trade and business enabling environment/SME). The team will enjoy regional support provided by a local consultant, which will bring added value to the international team by having regional experience and Arabic language skills. 

The facility is articulated through two complementary components focusing on:

• improving the enabling environment for business creation and economic development and
• investing in the potential of SMEs to add value to the economy and generate jobs. 

Component 1 (2016 contribution) focuses in particular on reforms that will lower the administrative burden on SMEs, facilitate financial inclusion among SMEs in a sustainable manner and strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights. The expected results of this component include:

• R1: Improved ease of tax and customs compliance for all taxpayers, and in particular for SMEs;
• R2: Improved access to finance for SMEs while maintaining the soundness of the banking system;
• R3: Deepened dialogue on the policy framework for business environment, in particular on SME related issues;
• R4: Business registration processes streamlined and harmonised;
• R5: Improved enabling environment for innovation within the Egyptian economy.

Component 2 (2017 contribution) is complementary and focuses on supporting enterprise growth and competitiveness through facilitating SME access to long term financing and know-how and by facilitating business linkages and fostering innovation among SMEs, including young entrepreneurs. The expected results of this component include:  

• R6: Increased economic performance of the SMEs supported with facilitation of access to long-term finance and know-how;
• R7: Enhanced capacity of SMEs and entrepreneurs to innovate. 

We are content to be involved in this assignment and would like to assure that we are continuing the good work on this and other assignments under implementation.

For more information, please contact Cristina Gogonetu, Senior Project Manager.