Programmatic Approach to Developing Economic Opportunities (PADEO)
The Dutch government collaborates with many different partners to support private sector development (PSD) in low-income countries. For better and more sustainable results, we use a flexible working method called PADEO - the Programmatic Approach to Developing Economic Opportunities. By using PADEO, we can better focus, integrate and coordinate our efforts. Discover how this method helps us work together more effectively on solutions that meet local needs.
What is PADEO?
PADEO is a new way of supporting sustainable international cooperation. The Dutch government introduced this approach in 2021 to improve collaboration between PSD programmes across various countries. By using PADEO, we bring together knowledge, resources and funding, and achieve a greater impact.
PADEO targets the underlying causes of challenges that private sectors face. With local partners, we work on solutions that bring about systemic change and create better economic opportunities.
In short, PADEO involves:
- Looking at local needs;
- Tackling the main causes of issues;
- Working together to coordinate activities across themes and countries;
- Aiming for results that last, using Dutch knowledge where helpful;
- Remaining flexible and adjusting strategies when needed.
Who uses the PADEO approach?
More and more countries and organisations are using PADEO. There is a growing interest in the approach. The Dutch government uses PADEO in close collaboration with local partners. The PADEO team consists of:
- the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
- the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO);
- Dutch embassies; and
- their local partners.
The PADEO team designs a strategy and manages PSD projects that run for several years. Dutch embassies are important in the PADEO approach, as they connect local stakeholders with Dutch companies and knowledge institutes.
How does PADEO work?
To address the underlying causes of local problems, the PADEO team works closely with local stakeholders to understand their needs. They then identify 'key leverage points', the areas that can create the most impact when addressed. Using these insights, the team develops solutions, often using Dutch expertise where useful. This approach provides the local private sector with access to valuable resources, knowledge and networks. By co-creating with local partners, we ensure solutions benefit communities in the long term.
The steps in using the PADEO approach:
- Focus on local needs;
- Analyse root causes;
- Determine leverage points;
- Provide Dutch added value.
Examples of interventions
- Developing training programmes for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on digitalisation and business growth;
- Providing young people with access to land and financial opportunities;
- Creating easier access to payment systems, foreign currency and tax benefits for young entrepreneurs.
PADEO countries
PADEO is now used in projects in the following 9 countries, each with a tailored approach:
| Country | Sector | Focus area |
|---|---|---|
| Ethiopia | Horticulture | Agri-logistics |
| Ghana | Cocoa, horticulture | Youth entrepreneurship and employability |
| Jordan | Private sector | Green jobs |
| Kenya | Water, agriculture/fishery | Integrated water management, fresh fish value chain |
| Lebanon | Agriculture | Agri-manufacturing |
| Mozambique | Horticulture | Agri-entrepreneurship |
| Sudan | Agriculture | Sustainable productivity (on hold due to conflict) |
| Tunisia | Agri-food | Youth employment |
| Uganda | Horticulture | Access to finance for farmers |
Want to get involved?
Is your embassy, NGO, knowledge institute or company active in one of the PADEO countries? And, do you want to support economic development?
- Visit our Development Cooperation Project Database to explore existing development projects. You can filter by location and sector.
- Contact the PADEO team. They can offer expert guidance and connect you with the right people.
Questions about PADEO?
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
