Swisscontact is dedicated to finding innovative ways to alleviate poverty in developing countries.

Since entering South Africa in 2003, we have worked closely with our funders, partners and clients to improve the competitiveness of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), as well the environments in which these businesses operate. Through this, Swisscontact aims to help small businesses to thrive, thereby contributing towards employment opportunities and income generation in South Africa.

We do this by providing technical assistance, capacity building, training and institutional development in a manner that promotes both gender equity and the sustainable usage of natural resources. Everything we do is underpinned by our three pillars:

1. Fostering vocational training and continuing education by developing market-oriented vocational training systems, developing demand-driven practical skills training, introducing innovative training methods, and creating model schools.
2. Supporting small and medium enterprise (SME) by improving the offering of business development services and financial services for SME, product development, quality assurance, access to markets and information, microfinance (incl. mobile services) and micro insurance.
3. Reducing environmental impact through improving air quality, waste management and recycling, introducing sustainable technologies, public relations campaigns, and advising municipal and national governments and authorities.