usaid's seed project - aecom international development {egypt}

USAID’s Strengthening Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development (SEED) in Egypt project is part of the United States – Government of Egypt Trade and Investment Promotion in Egypt (TIPE) Bilateral Agreement. This Agreement focuses on strengthening the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and entrepreneurship. More specifically, the purpose of the SEED contract is to increase employment and income of MSMEs and entrepreneurs, especially those owned by women and youth in disadvantaged areas, by: (1) stimulating entrepreneurship and innovation; (2) enhancing formalization of private enterprises; (3) improving financial and non-financial services to MSMEs; (4) integrating MSMEs and entrepreneurs in progressive value chains; and (5) addressing enabling environment policy reform initiatives to facilitate MSME development that is aligned to the Government of Egypt’s (GOE) socio-economic development strategy. SEED provides technical assistance, capacity building, and training to relevant stakeholders and counterparts in order to support the growth of MSMEs and promote entrepreneurship in Egypt. Stakeholders and counterparts include public sector reform champions, universities, BDS providers, mentors, business associations, investors, financial institutions, public organizations, MSMEs, and entrepreneurs. SEED will collaborate with other development partners (donors) and other USAID contractors to take full advantage of synergistic opportunities in achieving results. Special focus will be given to disadvantaged areas and population groups such as women and youth. Youth is defined for the purpose of this activity as individuals who are between ages of 15 and 29 years old.