The role of partnerships becomes particularly relevant in times of crisis, as it is much more effective to respond to challenges together rather than go it alone. In such conditions, business associations can serve as platforms for the development of mutually beneficial relations, provide systemic crisis-response within a particular industry, and lobby the interests of their participants.

PLEDDG offers five effective crisis-response steps for business associations.

Information support

Organize regular mailing of up-to-date information to participants. Notify about important legislative changes and decisions of local governments.

Systematize expert advice, conduct surveys, and collect the information on how your participants respond to modern challenges.

Based on the results, prepare and distribute newsletters and tips.

Deeper cooperation

Deepen commercial ties within an association.

Constantly analyze participants` activities, seek ways to deepen cluster connections and optimize your business.

Figure out ways to share typical expenses for your businesses (logistics, marketing, sales), reduce such expenses and improve your performance.

Training and mentorship

Examine the educational needs of association members.

Based on the collected data, create a list of areas that need to be improved.

Find professional lecturers and organize educational webinars.

Implement a mentorship system within an association.

Promotion of interests and lobbying

Communicate the interests of your participants to local authorities.

Pay special attention to the current challenges and issues.

Together, build effective response mechanisms and lobby their implementation.

Enhance capacitites

Look for additional resources and new opportunities to provide support and develop participants, in particular through international technical assistance programs.

Your expertise will help you make a qualified grant application.

Stay abreast of national business support programs and act quickly in the interests of participants.