Samuel Associates and CIPE to Lead USAID Arctic Business Dialogue Network Assessment

Samuel Associates and the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) have been commissioned by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to spearhead a ground-breaking stakeholder engagement and assessment of the private sector demand for establishing a regional Arctic Business Dialogue Network.

The Arctic region is experiencing an unprecedented economic and environmental transformation, creating unique economic opportunities for the region and potential investors. Yet information on economic and business relationships is dispersed and not readily accessible at the circumpolar level. Differing legal and regulatory regimes, challenges in shipping and logistics, fragmented business networks, and dominance of a few Arctic economies challenges businesses and governments alike in considering inclusive economic opportunities in the Arctic region, especially Greenland, one of the least globally connected countries in the region. To address this set of opportunities and challenges, USAID has launched this assessment to explore the need for a structured regional platform to facilitate business engagements and collaboration.

USAID has recognized the expertise and capabilities of Samuel Associates and CIPE to conduct a preliminary survey and analysis on how best to meet this need.

Over the coming months, our teams will conduct a diligent assessment of the demand for and feasibility of establishing a dynamic, advocacy and network-oriented Arctic Dialogue Network to facilitate trade and investment between North America, democratic stakeholder nations, and Arctic nations.

To inform this assessment, we will engage with a wide range of Arctic ecosystem stakeholders, including businesses, government agencies, indigenous communities, and other relevant organizations, to gather diverse perspectives and insights.

The study will also identify the economic sectors most affected by Arctic developments, explore the unique business and investment opportunities emerging in the region, and analyze the potential role of a regional Arctic Dialogue Network in fostering sustainable economic growth and peaceful cooperation.

By collaborating closely with local, national, and international partners, we aim to develop a network of stakeholders interested in an innovative dialogue Network for cross-regional cooperation and Arctic economic development. This network would highlight those interested in becoming part of a founder's group for the possible establishment of a new regional Arctic dialogue Network.

We are excited about this opportunity to contribute to such a worthwhile and meaningful endeavour aimed at the responsible, respectful, and sustainable economic development of the Arctic region.

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About Samuel Associates

With a global reach and a Canadian foundation, we specialize in delivering comprehensive Government Relations and Consulting Advisory Services to businesses, governments, and organizations worldwide. We serve a wide range of clients operating in Canada and worldwide in various industries and sectors. We bridge the gap between Business and Government organizations by providing strategic solutions. www.samuel.associates

About CIPE

The Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) is a global organization that works to strengthen democracy and build competitive markets in many of the world’s most challenging environments. Working alongside local partners and tomorrow’s leaders, CIPE advances the voice of business in policy making, promotes opportunity, and develops resilient and inclusive economies. www.cipe.org

About USAID

USAID is the world's premier international development agency and a catalytic actor driving development results. USAID's work advances U.S. national security and economic prosperity, demonstrates American generosity, and promotes a path to recipient self-reliance and resilience. USAID is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government. www.usaid.gov

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