USAID Partners: Private Sector Engagement

Agency for International Development (USAID) has a long history of partnering with the private sector on a broad range of issues where core business interests and development priorities align. In today's globalized world, there are more opportunities than ever before for cross-sector collaboration. Developing economies, which comprise many of the fastest-growing markets, customer bases, and workforces, present a significant opportunity for private sector actors, including U.S. and global corporations. USAID acknowledges that it does not have all the answers and recognizes the value of the private sector's relationships and capabilities. The Agency seeks to leverage these strengths to create a more secure and prosperous future for all. Private sector actors, such as U.S. corporations, have relationships and skills that USAID wants to tap into. By partnering with the private sector, USAID aims to catalyze investment in renewable resources and leverage the unique skills and capabilities of the business community. Access to electricity is critical for economic and social development, as it enables improvements in healthcare, food security, and education. Despite its importance, 1.4 billion people, or 16% of the global population, lack access to electricity. Many more rely on expensive and polluting energy sources, such as kerosene, wood, or wood-based products. Expanding access to modern energy services is a cornerstone of USAID's energy-related mission, which aims to bring about broad-based growth opportunities and reduce barriers to doing business in partner countries. The Agency partners with the private sector to catalyze investment in renewable resources and leverage the unique skills and capabilities of the business community. Together, they are working to increase energy access for hundreds of millions of people around the world. Power Africa, a U.S. Government-led initiative, has created a network of over 140 public and private sector partners, as well as 12 U.S. Government agencies, committed to investing in Africa's future and developing solutions to meet its vast energy needs. One country with significant investment potential is Nigeria, where per capita energy rates are among the lowest in the world. Power Africa partner Black Rhino Group, a subsidiary of the American investment firm, is working with the Nigerian construction company Dangote to invest in energy infrastructure projects that could transform the electricity market in Nigeria. In the northern region of Nigeria, Black Rhino is developing a large-scale solar photovoltaic project to expand power access in the region.