Jordan Competitiveness Program Annual Report Year Three

The program's third contractual year, spanning from September 2015 through September 2016, saw significant progress in various sectors. The program's narrative report highlights key activities and achievements, accompanied by a Key Performance Indicators table detailing planned outputs, progress, and challenges. The JCP's original focus was on four key knowledge economy sectors: Clean Technology, Information and Communications Technology, Medical Services, and Pharmaceuticals. However, in response to the changing economic landscape in Jordan, the program underwent a contract modification to align with the Jordan Compact. The revised program now works across the Jordanian economy, collaborating with policymakers, business associations, and the private sector to stimulate exports, attract foreign direct investment, and create employment opportunities. One of the program's distinct contributions is its deep knowledge of and partnerships within Jordan's high-growth knowledge-economy sectors. JCP's efforts have led to several economically vibrant "firsts" for the Kingdom, including the launch of electric vehicle fleets and solar-enabled charging infrastructure, the country's first-ever Intel-sponsored Maker Competition, and the establishment of a national entrepreneurship and employment network. The program's progress toward its high-level jobs, investment, and exports targets was a subject of discussion between JCP management and USAID. These discussions resulted in a contract modification to reflect the new priorities of the government under the Jordan Compact. The program now works closely with other USAID programs and relevant Government of Jordan entities to identify investment opportunities made possible by the Jordan Compact. The JCP's efficient allocation of resources is reflected in its high completion rate of planned outputs for year three. The program's progress toward its targets was a source of much discussion, but the contract modification has enabled JCP to adapt to the changing economic landscape in Jordan. The program's revised focus on stimulating exports, attracting foreign direct investment, and creating employment opportunities is expected to have a positive impact on the Jordanian economy. The JCP's work is closely coordinated with the Program Management Unit (PMU) of the Jordan Compact, which is housed at the Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (MOPIC). This collaboration aims to add value to the current efforts of the broader donor community and leverage policy interventions to stimulate exports and attract foreign direct investment. The program's achievements in year three demonstrate its commitment to enhancing Jordan's economic competitiveness. The JCP's revised focus and collaborative approach are expected to have a lasting impact on the Jordanian economy, creating employment opportunities and stimulating economic growth.