The Usaid Economic Security Program

The purpose of the USAID Economic Security Program is to accelerate broad-based growth of Georgia’s economy in sectors that show strong potential to create jobs, to increase incomes, to increase micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) revenues, and increase investment. To do this, it supports diversification to more productive economic activities, including those in value chains (VCs) within the tourism, light manufacturing, creative industries, shared intellectual services, and solid waste management sectors. In fulfilling this purpose, the Program focuses on priority sectors and value chains that have the most potential to produce investment that create high-value jobs for Georgians. This requires identifying and improving the eco-system for each value chain, including both the supply and demand-sides, as well as skills development of the workforce, strengthening of institutions that support these value chains, and establishment of partnerships that catalyze investment and strengthen MSME positioning within the value chains. The Program scales up impact through synergy, strategic partnerships and investments, while building collaborative alliances between government, the private sector, and civil society. Its innovative and empowering approach creates Georgian solutions to the country’s challenges by encouraging co-design and constructive dialogue. During its five years the Program will create at least 4,800 new jobs, support at least 720 MSMEs, increase sales of assisted enterprises by $60 million, and leverage $18 million in partnerships.