This programme is the largest LED and enterprise development programme ever attempted by the EC, together with the Government of Egypt. The programme involves a spend of €430M in a range of economic developmentand enterprise support measures to government, business and industry. The IMP requires the creation of a PMU (WYG International), a governing council, an Advisory Board and a Policy Unit. The WYG International team are directly responsible for the design and implementation of a range of individual sub-projects, which aim to improve the overall economic development environment, increasing the competitiveness of Egyptian enterprise, whilst developing local capacity within both national and regional governments to undertake similar programmes in the future. The main components of the programme are as follows:
- Establishment of a PMU (WYG International) to administer €430M (€250M from the EU and €180M from the Egyptian government);
- Development and implementation of EDF interventions through Annual Programme Estimates and Sector Policy support programmes;
- Restructuring of the Ministry for Industry and Technology and capacity building within various other national and regional government bodies ;
- Creation of a Policy Unit in the Ministry;
- Development of a forward-looking national LED strategy;
- Policy proposals relating to SME development and the financial sector;
- Practical initiatives in tradeand the promotion of foreign direct investment;
- A national quality initiative, involving the creation of a quality system for the country;
- A national skills upgrading and capacity building programme;
- The creation of a country-wide network of SME Business Support Centres and Technology Centres.
The initial phase involves the restructuring of the Ministry, establishing the PMU and Policy Unit in the Ministry and a number of fundamental policy initiatives in trade, foreign investment and business support.Further phases will develop this programme and ensure implementation throughout Egypt. WYG International is providing the implementation team of six long-term experts for the programme; guiding its initial strategy; and providing a range of back-up services, specialised advice and access to EU Best Practice know-how. This programme represents one of the most extensive and fundamental ever attempted by the European Commission.
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