Usaid Private Sector Engagement Policy

Changes in the global development context have increased the alignment of interests between the private sector and development actors. On their own, donor agencies are unable to fulfil their goals for sustainable development. There is growing recognition within the private sector of the need for, and benefits of, investing in the developing world. At the same time, governments are expanding efforts to diversify their economies and connect with capital for investment. In addition, the increasing scale, length, and frequency of disasters and conflicts around the world means that humanitarian actors alone can no longer address the complex needs of crisis- affected people. The confluence of these trends provides a watershed opportunity for USAID, our partner governments, and civil society to increase collaboration with the private sector to support countries on their Journey to Self-Reliance.

To capitalise fully on this opportunity and reach our goal— ending the need for assistance—it is imperative that USAID increase and deepen our collaboration with the private sector. Thus, this policy is an Agency-wide call to action, and a mandate to work hand-in-hand with the private sector to design and deliver our development and humanitarian programs across all sectors, and to harness our resources to open markets and provide opportunities for U.S. businesses.