Our advisory services for chambers and business associations

Chambers and business associations perform important groundwork, and are thus cornerstones of German development cooperation. As platforms for knowledge and networking, they make the services of development cooperation accessible to their members whilst representing those members’ interests. Thanks to their extensive practical expertise they help set industry standards and facilitate market access, such that both they and their members can benefit.

Our local expertise with chambers and business associations

To ensure that chambers and business associations stay informed about development cooperation at all times, they are supported by AWE and its business scouts. These scouts are integrated directly in the chambers and business associations. In their work, our scouts advise member companies wishing to operate in developing countries or emerging economies; they provide information on funding opportunities, identify market opportunities and facilitate business partnerships. The topics they address range from skilled workers to energy, raw materials and the circular economy. They have an impact both directly within companies, and indirectly through the multiplier effects generated by chambers and business associations – and as such they form a bridge between business and development cooperation.

AWE also supports the development of joint projects for economic development, employment promotion or sustainable structures in the Global South. These are implemented by organisations such as sequa gGmbH and the German Sparkassenstiftung for International Cooperation.

• Scouting for business opportunities: We identify specific development opportunities for business engagement in developing countries and emerging economies.
• Close cooperation: Our experts act as direct points of contact and are closely attuned to the interests of the business community within chambers of commerce and associations.
• Tailored advice: We provide support with funding programmes, financing solutions and suitable partners that align with your strategic objectives.
• From the initial idea to the project proposal: We assist with the preparation of proposals and facilitate access to funding programmes.
• Project development: Together with partners, we design viable concepts that are implemented by organisations such as sequa gGmbH or the German Sparkassenstiftung.
• Support during implementation: We are also on hand to offer advice during ongoing projects.
• Opening up networks: We put you in touch with local and international networks as well as funding bodies, and encourage dialogue conducted in a spirit of equal partnership.

International partners benefit from German expertise through cooperation. But there are also a number of benefits for the chambers and business associations themselves, as well as their members.

• Reputation management and enhanced social role: Engagement in development cooperation strengthens the social profile of business associations and improves their standing with political decision-makers.
• International networking: Cooperation with foreign chambers and industry associations can foster long-term partnerships and advance international standards.
• Shaping standards: Institutions can also play a decisive role abroad in establishing quality and social standards, for instance in the training of skilled workers.
• Retaining members: By providing exclusive information on tenders, chambers and business associations can offer their members added value, thereby attracting new companies.