Private Sector Policy

OPM's work in this area focuses on supporting the development, implementation and review of private sector development strategies. The identification of effective policy reforms and institution-building measures required to foster pro-poor growth is critical to ensure that marginal producers and small entrepreneurs benefit from, and  also contribute to, the economic growth process. OPM employs a muti-disciplinary team and links a strong understanding of the broader development and poverty reduction context with specific expertise and capacity in private sector development, regional development and financial sector work.

Making Markets Work Better for the Poor

OPM developed the first thematic paper on ‘Making Markets Work Better for the Poor’ for DFID in 2000 and is delighted with the increased interest in this framework since then. The overall aim of the framework is to help analyse key opportunities and constraints facing poor households and micro, small and medium enterprises and how market-friendly policies and institutions can help improve sustainable access to finance, skills and other markets. We approach the issues both from the perspective of the public sector (e.g. how public policy towards the private sector should be developed) and from the perspective of the private sector (e.g. the extent and means by which micro, small, medium and large enterprises engage with wider economic, social and environmental issues.

The work of the portfolio covers:

• Improving access to, and the functioning of, markets, especially for poor people and small enterprises;
• Private sector development policies and strategies;
• Privatisation in all its forms to create more appropriate boundaries between the public and private sectors ; and 
• Private corporations and the development agenda