In the 1960s, Swisscontact built up the first vocational training projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Later, in the 1980s, it developed the first small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) support concepts, as there was a great need in this domain, especially for graduates from vocational schools. SMEs find it very difficult to get inexpensive operational and investment loans, which is why programs were developed to help overcome these problems. As regards environmental protection, Swisscontact has mainly been involved in developing methods to combat air pollution. Swisscontact specialises in project management, focussing now on four strategical work areas:

• Education and Training

• Supporting Enterprises

• Financial Services

• Environment