Swiss Contact

Swiss Contact is an independent non-profit development organisation established in 1959 by representatives of the Swiss private sector and civil society. Our work focuses on private sector-led, sustainable economic development and improved quality of life for all in developing and emerging countries. A key focus is to strengthen the skills of individuals and foster the competitiveness of businesses.

Mission and guiding principles
We unleash the potential of private initiative to foster sustainable development and shared prosperity in developing and emerging economies.

Our beliefs and values
Private Initiative and Systemic Change
We view private initiative as a key source of innovation and opportunity creation. We therefore support systemic change that encourages those innovations that have the potential to trigger sustainable and inclusive development and increase resilience.

Locally-Led Development
We are committed to empowering local actors by strengthening their capacities and giving them decision-making power through long-term partnerships that are based on shared values.

Quality
By tapping into our international experience and engaging our partner network, we develop and apply innovative and scalable solutions that maximise the impact and outreach of our work.

Equal Opportunities
We protect and advance the perception and fulfilment of rights to equality and non-discrimination. We strive to provide all individuals with fair and impartial access to opportunities.
Integrity
We have an unwavering commitment to ethical behaviour, maintaining the highest standard of compliance in every aspect of our operations. We exhibit zero tolerance for non-adherence to laws, regulations, policies, and standards.

Transparency
We are transparent in everything we do, communicating openly about our achievements and collecting insights from the challenges we encounter along the way. We share our learnings for the benefit of all, thereby strengthening our credibility and the trust of our partners.

Empowerment
Our people are our most valuable resource. We empower our employees, create space for individual initiative, leadership and innovation, and strive for a climate of trust.