From Bahia to Miami Beach: Brazil

This note highlights a USAID/Brazil micro and small enterprise (MSE) trade-led growth program. The program undertakes the following activities:

• Encouraging micro and small producers to form producer associations;
• Strengthening value chains and horizontal and vertical linkages among enterprises;
• Improving the local policy environment.

The project is implemented at the national level and in four clusters in the north and northeast of Brazil, namely:

• A­ (a typical Brazilian Amazon fruit) in the state of Para;
• Honey in Piau;
• Cashew nuts in Cear;
• Swim-wear in Bahia.

The program implements a strategy composed of several main project focuses for the supported firms. Some of the support services provided by the program are:

• Technical support to evaluate current activities at plants and to develop plans to upgrade production techniques;
• Pursuit of new market channels for the firms;
• Technical assistance from swim-wear specialists for preparation for the Cruise Swimwear Trade Show in Miami Beach;
• Development of market access, and provision of post-trade show support to help close deals;
• Establishment of quality production and level of service control.

USAID's ultimate goal is to create an enabling environment for MSE exports. The note mentions how the program demonstrates the effectiveness of MSE participation in trade as a contribution to poverty alleviation through the creation of sustainable jobs and expanded economic opportunities for the poor.