Partnership for Local Economic Development and Democratic Governance Project (PLEDDG)

COMPONENTS: IMPLEMENTING AN “OPEN GOVERNMENT” MODEL AND ENSURING TRANSPARENT AND EFFECTIVE DECISION MAKING BY LOCAL GOVERNMENT

PLEDDG is committed to the values of inclusive and accountable government because enhancing transparency and strengthening civil society participation will advance local democracy and provide greater economic stability.

PLEDDG will empower local governments to implement an “open government” model to create transparent and participatory decision-making processes. We facilitate more inclusive approaches to local government that enable various stakeholders to more actively contribute to shaping the local development agenda and devising local solutions to economic development challenges.

Outcomes

Open, democratic governance models developed and applied in partner cities

Strategic plans developed and implemented including community vision, gender equality and environmental considerations, as well as inter-municipal cooperation

Improved partner city attractiveness, governance and service delivery

SUPPORT OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT

PLEDDG will stimulate and support the growth of sustainable small and medium enterprises (SME) through development of business support institutions, enhancement of entrepreneurs’ skills and capacities. PLEDDG believes that an effective business climate and business services are cornerstones of SME growth and economic prosperity. As such, we will implement local government business support programs to help expand and strengthen SMEs and ultimately, the middle class.

Outcomes

Favorable enabling environment for SMEs in partner cities created with a focus on women entrepreneurs and environmentally friendly businesses

Business infrastructure developed and new services for SMEs applied

Increased opportunities for local stakeholders to engage in partnerships that support business development.

IMPROVE COLLABORATION BETWEEN LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL AUTHORITIES TO FACILITATE DECENTRALIZATION AND INTERGOVERNMENTAL DIALOGUE

PLEDDG will facilitate improved structures, capacities, practical policy, planning, and intergovernmental cooperation as a means of facilitating decentralization and promoting local investment, trade and business development. In addition, PLEDDG will continue to support the Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) to improve and expand their services related to democratic governance and LED.

Outcomes

Enhanced training and professional development opportunities on democratic governance, LED, investment and trade for LG officials and staff

Increased ability of regional/local governments for intergovernmental dialogue and integrated economic development planning

Enhanced capacity of the AUC to represent the interest of its members in policy issues and provide them with better services