The USAID-funded Economic Development and Growth for Enterprises (EDGE) project organized a workshop on international best practices in the development of programs and services for over twenty participants.

Business associations have a critical role to play in any vibrant economy. At the same time, to be effective, these associations must provide quality programs and services to their members. The USAID-funded Economic Development and Growth for Enterprises (EDGE) project organized a workshop on international best practices in the development of programs and services for over twenty participants from different Cypriot business associations.

Part of a series of workshops in the area of business development services, this event highlighted ways to develop demand-driven programs and services that build both organizational capacity and member loyalty. Interactive break-out sessions followed an overview by Mark McCord, EDGE’s Senior Business Associations Advisor, who used examples from his work in the United States, Europe and Asia to spark discussion of practical ways associations can improve the work they do.

Strengthening business associations is an important part of the EDGE project, which is working to encourage growth in the Turkish Cypriot economy. Like all U.S. Government programs in Cyprus, EDGE is aimed at facilitating reunification of the island, including through responsible and private sector-led economic growth.