The Local Expert Network: Championing Locally Led Development Before It Became the Norm

In 2020, SCOPEinsight launched the Local Expert Network (LEN), a pioneering initiative aimed at uniting Business Development Service (BDS) providers across Africa. Fast forward to the end of 2022, and the LEN boasts nine Local Experts operating in a dozen African countries, from Nigeria to Kenya. This growth is not just a testament to SCOPEinsight’s vision but also aligns seamlessly with USAID’s recent emphasis on supporting locally-led development.

A Shared Vision: SCOPEinsight and USAID

From its inception, SCOPEinsight harbored a vision to unite stakeholders within agricultural value chains, aiming to fortify the local ecosystem so that agribusiness professionalism is recognized and rewarded. This ethos resonates deeply with USAID’s commitment, as outlined by Administrator Samantha Power, to channel a significant portion of its funding directly to local partners. By 2030, USAID aims for at least 50% of its programs to prioritize local actor leadership in various aspects of project development.

As our tools gain widespread adoption, we’re witnessing a paradigm shift in behavioral incentives. In regions like East Africa, agribusinesses are proactively investing in their own training, a move that mirrors USAID’s endeavors to empower local entities. In West Africa, more agribusinesses are turning to SCOPE scores to access loans, highlighting the value of professionalism.

Empowering Local Experts: The Heart of Sustainable Development

The LEN is more than just a network; it’s a movement. Our Local Experts, spanning countries from Burkina Faso to the Democratic Republic of Congo, are the embodiment of local leadership that both SCOPEinsight and USAID champion. These experts are proficient in SCOPEinsight tools, bridging the crucial gap between financial institutions and agri-SMEs, and echoing USAID’s goal of fostering genuine local partnerships.

USAID’s recent Localization Progress Report underscores the importance of such local engagement. In FY 2022 alone, direct local funding reached nearly $1.6 billion, marking the highest level of direct local funding in a decade. This emphasis on localization, combined with SCOPEinsight’s on-ground initiatives, sets the stage for a future where local entities are at the helm of their development journey.

Looking Ahead: A Future Rooted in Local Leadership

As the LEN continues to grow, SCOPEinsight remains unwavering in its commitment to the principles of local empowerment and leadership. Our vision, in tandem with USAID’s objectives, paves the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and locally driven future.

In this era of localization, SCOPEinsight stands as a beacon, showcasing that championing locally led development isn’t just a trend—it’s the future. And we’ve been advocating for it long before it became the norm

Be Part of Local Development’s Future

We’re forging a new path in sustainable development. Are you an agribusiness, a potential Local Expert, or someone with a passion for change? We need you. Local leadership is the future, and together, we can make it the norm.

Reach out to SCOPEinsight now. Let’s create change in agribusiness.

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