The U.S. Agency for International Development Jordan Local Enterprise Support (USAID LENS) project is designed to encourage the long-term economic growth and development potential of underserved Jordanian communities, with the goal of increasing revenue and creating jobs. This five-year project empowers local communities to design and implement collaborative local economic development initiatives, which in turn bolster the vitality and competitiveness of micro- and small enterprises that are often at the heart of individual, family and community livelihoods within vulnerable populations.
FHI 360’s holistic approach to supporting business growth targets all aspects of the private-sector system, with a focus on food processing, transportation and logistics, and tourism, among other sectors. Activities include:
- Direct technical assistance and grants to businesses
- Assistance to business support providers and business associations to provide improved services to members
- Targeted policy reforms
- Strengthened engagement among businesses and municipal leaders to promote formal business registration, access to finances, investment and improved business operations
The USAID LENS project is an integral component of USAID/Jordan’s strategy to support comprehensive development. The project is implemented by FHI 360 and its partners, Mennonite Economic Development Associates and the International City/County Management Association. Its focus on local economic development through micro- and small enterprises complements other projects in USAID’s private-sector growth portfolio.
