Strong business associations play a critical role in most vibrant economies. The USAID-funded Economic Development and Growth for Enterprises (EDGE) project organized a workshop on international best practices in organizational management for over twenty participants from different Cypriot business associations. Part of a series of workshops, this event focused on best practices in the areas of governance, communication and programs/services. Mark McCord, EDGE’s Senior Business Associations Advisor, presented an overview of global trends in organizational management using examples from his work in the United States, Europe and Asia. Break out sessions and discussion groups were led by EDGE team members Arzu Cagin (communications), Ayzer Mungan (governance) and Ilke Mollaoglu (programs/services).

As part of the event, EDGE distributed a Business Association Development Guidebook, available in both English and Turkish. The guidebook provides an overview of key organizational development areas as well as a companion compact disc with samples of business association materials from around the world. According to the event evaluation, 95% of participants felt it was useful in developing their organizational management skills. Future workshops will feature intensive technical assistance in other management areas covered within the Guidebook.

Strengthening business associations is an important part of the EDGE project, which is working to encourage growth in the Turkish Cypriot economy. Like all U.S. Government programs in Cyprus, EDGE is aimed at facilitating reunification of the island, including through responsible economic growth and sound environmental management.