Obtaining access to export markets is crucial for fostering SME growth and productivity, especially in light of increased globalization and market liberalization.  SME in developing countries, however, face many constraints to competing effectively in these markets since they often lack the necessary knowledge and financing, may not meet foreign regulatory requirements, or may produce products in quantities and of a quality that are not adequate for foreign buyers.

One effective way of addressing these problems is through the development of export consortia.  Export consortia are voluntary groupings of enterprises, usually in the same or similar business or subsector, with the objective of improving the export readiness and increasing the export volumes of the participants.  By combining their knowledge, financial resources and contacts within an export consortium, SME can significantly improve their export potential and reduce the costs and risks involved in penetrating foreign markets.

Most consortia are non-profit entities, and members retain their financial, legal, managerial, and commercial autonomy. So, despite their participation in the export consortia, member firms do not give up any control over their business to others.  This is the main difference between consortia and other types of strategic alliances.

Establishing successful consortia is a demanding task. Developing economies often lack experience with consortia promotional programmes. External assistance and capacity building through appropriate training may be critical for developing a sound export consortia programme in a country.

This training course, now in its third edition, combines the consolidated experience in the field of SME networking and export consortia development of the following organizations: The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), the Italian Federation of Export Consortia (Federexport) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).