Revised Private Sector Engagement Handbook 2.0 : Now available!

This revised PSE Handbook reflects lessons learned since its first edition in 2021 and responds to emerging needs. Above all, this Handbook is a tool to strengthen SDC’s work, and a commitment to the belief that public-private collaboration is essential to achieving the 2030 Agenda and building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development as well as SDC’s overarching mandate to reduce poverty can only be achieved by joining forces with all relevant stakeholders in creative and effective partnerships.

The innovative power, expertise and resources of the private sector must be harnessed for addressing global development challenges. Engaging with the private sector is a priority of Switzerland's International Cooperation strategy 2025-2028 and the SDC seeks to promote the cooperation with the private sector within all its thematic areas.

Engaging with the private sector is a modality of intervention – a means to an end – complementing other forms of development cooperation. PSE is not a standalone solution, nor is it appropriate in every context. But when well designed, it adds value and complements other development instruments. SDC aims to expand and strengthen private-sector partnerships across all themes and regions.

Who is this for?

The revised PSE Handbook provides practical guidance to SDC staff on how to design, implement, and manage effective private-sector partnerships. It will be particularly useful for all staff members working in SDC and SECO partner countries on private sector engagement, regional and thematic advisors, cooperation offices, and anyone involved in designing, managing, or advising on partnerships with private sector actors. Its principles and standards also inform private-sector actors and implementing partners about SDC’s expectations and approach.

While the revised PSE Handbook describes the main purpose and principles of private sector engagement, additional operational details are provided in a set of Technical Guidance Notes, which are strictly internal SDC documents, and which cover key PSE implementation topics (PSE process management, Direct versus indirect PSEs, Additionality, Personal contribution calculation, Analysis of excessive profits, PSE risk management process, Procurement, governance and contracts). These documents can be accessed via the FDFA intranet (internal only): available here.