We create opportunities

Swisscontact is an independent non-profit development organisation established in 1959 by representatives of the Swiss private sector and civil society. Our work focuses on private sector-led, sustainable economic development and improved quality of life for all in developing and emerging countries. A key focus is to strengthen the skills of individuals and foster the competitiveness of businesses.
Results and Impact
Swisscontact implements 133 projects in 41 countries. We have achieved these broadly effective results.
Collaboration with the Private Sector
Swisscontact was founded more than 60 years ago by exponents of Swiss business. Our commitment to the private sector is deeply rooted in our DNA.
Annual Report 2023
2023 was defined by significant upheaval in international development cooperation. In addition to poverty, people in our project countries are increasingly afflicted by armed conflicts and natural disasters as a consequence of climate change. Nevertheless, we believe that a far-reaching approach to development cooperation adapted to local contexts is more important than ever.
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OUR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME: DEVELOPMENT THROUGH INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS
Our development programme is the centrepiece of Swisscontact. In 2024, it encompassed 30 projects in 21 countries. In the development programme we test new ideas and further develop existing innovations that have been proven effective over time.  We link Swiss and international actors from the public and private sector as well as academia. In this way the programme supports cross-sectoral approaches and cooperation.