Frequently asked questions
What happens next when I submit an enquiry using the contact form?
When you submit an enquiry using the contact form, a member of the AWE team will read it and assign it to the appropriate category. We will get back to you soon after to clarify any questions we may have and discuss what support might be appropriate for your business.
We will of course treat your details confidentially and use them solely to help us process your enquiry. We are also happy to arrange a face-to-face meeting at our offices in Berlin, at your company’s offices in Germany, or online.
Does my project need to be fully developed before I get in touch?
No. We don’t require you to have a fully developed project or a finished business plan. All we need to see are your initial ideas, rough outlines or thoughts on potential markets.
In the early stages in particular, a consultation can help you to realistically assess opportunities, identify risks up front and avoid unnecessary complications. Many companies choose to involve AWE at an early stage to test or refine their ideas. Our advice meets you where you are and helps you to structure your project one step at a time.
What can I expect from a consultation with AWE?
We offer practical and impartial advice, tailored specifically to the needs of SMEs.
The support we provide depends on what you want to achieve. For example, we can:
- help you with a realistic assessment of market opportunities and the local business environment,
- provide information on suitable funding and business support programmes,
- help you categorise the main risks,
- recommended a suitable course of action.
Our objective is to guide you through the process and establish a sound basis for you to decide on the best way forward. We can also help you to make new local contacts.
When should I contact AWE – and when should I contact the Helpdesk?
AWE’s role is to provide support on financial and economic matters – such as market opportunities, partnerships and investments in developing countries and emerging economies.
The Helpdesk on Business and Human Rights advises on issues related to human rights, supply chain risks and due diligence obligations.
If you are unsure, send your enquiry to AWE. We’ll make sure it gets to the right team.
Is there any cost or commitment involved?
No. There is no charge for contacting us or for any advice you receive. The entire service is offered without commitment. You are under no obligation whatsoever. You are free to decide whether and how you would like to make use of any further support available.
Can you guarantee that my project will succeed?
There is no 100 per cent guarantee of success. However, if you contact AWE, we will help you to assess your project realistically, identify opportunities and risks at an early stage, and avoid making common mistakes. Our experience and market knowledge, and the access we offer to suitable funding mechanisms and partner networks, will help you to form a much clearer picture and therefore make informed decisions.
For more information about the impacts achieved through projects implemented in collaboration with AWE and the Helpdesk on Business and Human Rights, see the Partners in Transformation annual report.