Activity

Support to implementation and operational management

ECODEV actively supports the growth of the supported companies:

  • Strategic advice,
  • Management procedures,
  • Rise in capacity,
  • Support to commercial development.

As an active shareholder, ECODEV participates in the governance of the supported companies, as well as in the main strategic decisions. Backed by classM, a consulting firm specialized in the development of sustainable and profitable SMEs in Africa, ECODEV contributes to the operational, human, financial and marketing structuring of the funded projects, and builds the framework for environmental and social practices in accordance with international standards.

Depending on the specific needs of each project, ECODEV can personalize its support through training and the intervention of external experts.

Investing for the emergence of National Flagships

ECODEV deploys a range of financial instruments (debt, equity, quasi-equity) to invest in new projects with a need for structuring, and in already existing companies in need of a significant upscale.

The amount of investment per project is determined on the basis of an established business plan, according to the project context and to the targeted economic and social returns.

The targeted projects range from US $ 200,000 to US $ 5 million, over an average period of 5 years. The financial package is adapted according to each project and according to the co-investors. The exit and resale mechanism is established on a case-by-case basis, depending on the actual achievement of the expected impacts. Exit strategy through sales to the supported company is a prefered option.

ECODEV does not provide grants.

Connecting local economic actors

Within its ecosystem, ECODEV plays a role in improving relationships between different stakeholders:

  • Local communities, by sharing the value created and including the local populations in the implementation of the supported projects, while respecting their environment.
  • Local authorities, by contributing on the ground to the implementation of government programs.
  • Local entrepreneurs, by demonstrating a real interest in their projects and supporting their growth.
  • National governments, by working hand-in-hand with them to promote existing initiatives and investing where funds can be difficult to obtain.
  • National and international shareholders, by demonstrating a strong consideration for local issues and a willingness to bring practical answers to these challenges.