| Each year the World Bank Group lends between US$15-20 billion to developing country governments to fund projects for economic development and poverty reduction. This generates around 40,000 contracts ranging in size from a few thousand dollars to multi-million dollar expenditures for the delivery of a vast range of goods and services. The Bank also provides an extensive array of advice and facilitates private sector investments in developing countries to promote growth and opportunity. This page provides a guide to the range of business and investment opportunities created by the World Bank Group's work. If you still have questions or haven't found what you are looking for, check Frequently Asked Questions or contact us directly. Private Sector Development Resources offers detailed search options for the Bank's services and activities with the private sector.
HOW TO DO BUSINESS  On Bank-Financed Projects
Government agencies from the Bank's borrowing countries are responsible for the purchase of goods and services to support projects. Bank procedures have been established to ensure that procurement is conducted efficiently and in an open, competitive and transparent manner. See the Procurement for Projects - Home Page or The Project Cycle - A Guide For Business for a detailed explanation on how to identify and bid on contracts.
As a Vendor to the Bank
The Bank regularly seeks qualified vendors to supply goods and services. These requirements include all goods, consulting, services and works as required to support the Bank's administrative and corporate requirements. The Bank fills these contracts directly through open competition. For information on how to do business with the Bank and current opportunities, go to the Bank's Corporate Procurement site. As a Consultant
The Bank regularly uses a variety of consulting services from individuals and firms. The work can be based either at headquarters, in Washington DC, or in country offices. Find databases of available contracts, information on operating guidelines and how to register.
AS AN INVESTOR OR COMPANY SEEKING… Finance
The Bank Group's financial products range from investment and adjustment loans to governments to loans for small and medium-sized enterprises. The Bank Group's private sector investment arm, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) promotes private sector growth in developing countries through direct lending, equity investments and syndicated lending. The IFC can also help identify investment opportunities for potential foreign investors. See financing. Investment Opportunities
The World Bank, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) offer a wide range of products and services for investors. Specific products, such as bonds, loans, and guarantees, are available. Investing services can also help individuals and firms explore foreign direct investment opportunities within the developing world and emerging markets. Facilities for Small and Medium Enterprises
The Bank Group offers numerous facilities to promote small business growth in developing countries. It works to make it easier for them to gain access to capital, information technology, technical assistance and advice. Guarantees and Risk Management Support
The Bank Group offers political risk mitigation products to commercial lenders contemplating investment in developing countries. By covering risks the market is unable to bear, the Bank's guarantees can open new opportunities for business. Advice
The Bank Group offers an array of advisory services ranging from International Finance Corporation analysis of how to improve private sector development and assistance to private companies, to foreign investment and business climate surveys, privatization and treasury advisory services. A Grant
A limited number of grants are available through the Bank Group, either funded directly or managed through partnerships. Many are designed for small and medium enterprises. Grants encourage innovation, collaboration with other organizations, and participation by stakeholders at national and local levels.
Partnerships
The Bank Group works with a range of partners including international aid organizations, civil society, the business community and government agencies as part of its efforts to maximize the effectiveness of its development programs.
HAVEN'T FOUND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR?
Search the Private Sector Development Resources site. Three ways are provided to find the Bank Group's extensive range of private sector services. Searches are available by subject and activity. Relevant websites can also be searched through the links found in the organizational structure section. Updated: December 2003 |
