1

Endorsement Statement

We extend our support and endorsement of the Palestine Investment Conference, PIC-Palestine, to be held between May 21- 23 2008 in Bethlehem, Palestine.

We see in PIC-Palestine great potential to jumpstart the process of integrating Palestine with the regional and international economy; ultimately contributing to the achievement of sustainable peace.

We join hands with the international community and the Palestinian public and private sectors in endorsing this conference, and strongly urge all concerned parties to contribute to its success.

Contents

National and Regional non-profit Supporting Organizations ................................................ 7Ahali Center for Community Development ................................................................................................................................ 8Al Urdun Al Jadid Research Center - Jordan ............................................................................................................................... 9Arab Hotel Association - Palestine ..................................................................................................................................................10Arab Planning Institute - Kuwait .....................................................................................................................................................11Association of Banks in Palestine .....................................................................................................................................................12Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce & Industry ......................................................................................................................13Building & Construction Research Center (BCRC) - Palestine .....................................................................................14Business Women Forum – Palestine ...............................................................................................................................................15Center for Continuing Education (CCE) Birzeit University .............................................................................................16Center for Development and Labor Studies Association – Gaza .....................................................................................17Center for Urban & Regional Studies ...........................................................................................................................................18An-Najah National University (CURP) Chamber of Commerce & Industry ..........................................................18Ramallah & Al-Bireh Gov. ..................................................................................................................................................................19Deanship of Academic Research Hebron University .............................................................................................................20Deanship of Scientific Research - An-Najah National University ...................................................................................21Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture .........................................................22Hebron Chamber of Commerce & Industry .............................................................................................................................23Institute of Business and Economic AL-Quds University ...................................................................................................24Jenin Chamber of Commerce, Industry, & Agriculture .......................................................................................................25Jerusalem Arab Chamber of Commerce & Industry .............................................................................................................26Jerusalem Center for Social and Economic Rights .................................................................................................................27Jordan Chamber of Commerce (JCC) ..........................................................................................................................................28Jordanian Businessmen Association ................................................................................................................................................29MA’AN Development Center - Palestine ....................................................................................................................................30Nablus Chamber of Commerce & Industry ..............................................................................................................................31

Nazareth Cultural and Tourism Association ..............................................................................................................................32NGO Development Center - Palestine .........................................................................................................................................33Opinion Polls and Survey Studies Center An-Najah National University ..................................................................34Palestine Fair Trade Association (PFTA) ......................................................................................................................................35Palestine Institute For Financial & Banking Studies ..............................................................................................................36Palestine Project Management Association “PMA” ..............................................................................................................37Palestine Trade Center – Paltrade ....................................................................................................................................................38Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees (P.A.R.C) .........................................................................................................39Palestinian Association of Certified Public Accountants (PACPA) .................................................................................40Palestinian Businessmen Association..............................................................................................................................................41Palestinian Businesswomen’s Association – Asala ....................................................................................................................42Palestinian Contractors Union (PCU) ..........................................................................................................................................43Palestinian Economists Association ...............................................................................................................................................44Palestinian Federation of Industries (PFI) ...................................................................................................................................45Palestinian Heritage Center ................................................................................................................................................................46Palestinian Insurance Federation - PIF .........................................................................................................................................47Palestinian IT Association of Companies “PITA” ...................................................................................................................48Palestinian Shippers’ Council (PSC) ..............................................................................................................................................49Palestinian Women’s Research & .....................................................................................................................................................50Documentation Center .......................................................................................................................................................................50Planning & Development Dept. - Palestine Polytechnic University ............................................................................51Qalqilia Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture ..............................................................................................52Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) .......................................................................................................................................53Salfeet Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture .................................................................................................54Sidreh .............................................................................................................................................................................................................55The Chamber of Commerce Industry & Agriculture - Tulkarm ......................................................................................56The East Jerusalem YMCA ..................................................................................................................................................................57The Palestinian Farmers Union .........................................................................................................................................................58The Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy - MIFTAH .......................59The Institute for Area Studies (IAS) AL-Quds University .................................................................................................60

Union of Stone & Marble Industry – USM In Palestine.....................................................................................................61YWCA of Palestine ................................................................................................................................................................................62

International non-profit Supporting Organizations .......................................................................64ACDI / VOCA - West Bank Field Office ....................................................................................................................................65American Arab Chamber of Commerce .......................................................................................................................................66American Federation of Ramallah, Palestine ..............................................................................................................................67Arab American Institute .......................................................................................................................................................................68Arab American Foundation ................................................................................................................................................................68Arab-Belgium-Luxemburg Chamber of Commerce ...............................................................................................................69Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and Industry .....................................................................................................70Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce ................................................................................................................................................71Aspen Institute ..........................................................................................................................................................................................72Association of Business Executives ..................................................................................................................................................73Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry - AACCI .......................................................................................74Austro - Arab Chamber of Commerce ..........................................................................................................................................75Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry .....................................................................................................................76Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Southern Sweden ...............................................................................................77Chambre de Commerce Franco-Arabe .........................................................................................................................................78Czech Arab Chamber of Commerce ..............................................................................................................................................79DLA Piper ...................................................................................................................................................................................................80European Palestinian Chamber of Commerce EPCC ...........................................................................................................81 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) ................................................................................82Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation ..........................................................................................................................83International Foundation for Election Systems ........................................................................................................................84International Labour Organization .................................................................................................................................................85Japan Bank for International Cooperation..................................................................................................................................86Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)............................................................................................................................87Japan International Cooperation Agency - JICA .....................................................................................................................88MEDEF International ...........................................................................................................................................................................89

National U.S. - Arab Chamber of Commerce ..........................................................................................................................90PricewaterhouseCoopers ......................................................................................................................................................................91The American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt (AmCham Egypt) .............................................................................92American Task Force on Palestine - ATFP ..................................................................................................................................93The Bethlehem Association .................................................................................................................................................................94The Carter Center - West Bank & Gaza Field Office ............................................................................................................95The Joint Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce ............................................................................................................................96The National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations .........................................................................................................................97The Palestinian American Chamber of Commerce – PACC .............................................................................................98The Portland Trust .................................................................................................................................................................................99The U.S.-Bahrain Business Council (USBBC) .....................................................................................................................100The US-Arab Chamber of Commerce ......................................................................................................................................101The US-Qatar Business Council ...................................................................................................................................................102TUGIAD - Young Businessmen Association of Turkey.....................................................................................................103U.S. Chamber of Commerce ..........................................................................................................................................................104U.S.-Arab Economic Forum (USAEF) ......................................................................................................................................105UNDP/ Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People – oPt ..............................................................................106United Nations World Food Programme – oPt .....................................................................................................................107United Nations Population Fund - Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People ..................................108United Palestinian Appeal, Inc. .....................................................................................................................................................109UNSCO ....................................................................................................................................................................................................110US- Palestinian Public Private Partnership ..............................................................................................................................111US UAE Business Council ..............................................................................................................................................................112WHO - West Bank & Gaza Office ..............................................................................................................................................113World Bank Group ..............................................................................................................................................................................114World Economic Forum ...................................................................................................................................................................115

7

Names of Institutions

National & Regionalnon-profit

Supporting Organizations:

8

Ahali Center for Community Development

Promoting Grassroots Activism Among the Palestinian Minority in Israel Ahali is an independent not-for-profit organization established in 1999 to strengthen grassroots activism among Palestinian citizens in Israel. Ahali works through community organizing, used as a mean of struggle to obtain full citizenship and minority rights and thus ensuring equal distribution of national resources.

Striving for creating a more democratic, pluralistic, equal and just society, Ahali, meaning «people in community», has developed a range of innovative programs to organize and empower the community and other organizations in improving their socio-economic conditions.

As a community development organization, Ahali supports community activists from various interest groups such as women, farmers, artisans, youth, parents, students and assists in creating frameworks for activism.

For Ahali, the term «community development» implies encouraging members of society to analyze their situation as individuals and as a collective and identify the community needs accordingly. The following stage involves active efforts to improve our community’s socio-economic conditions within the broader national, social and political context.

www.ahalicenter.org

9

Al Urdun Al Jadid Research Center - Jordan

www.ujrc-jordan.org

10

Arab Hotel Association - Palestine

Established in Jerusalem in 1962

Currently has 70 members with 4,700 guest rooms ( excl. Gaza hotels)

Registered NGO at the Palestinian and Israeli Authorities

Member of the Coordinating Group for the Palestinian Tourism Private sector.

www.palestinehotels.com/aha/

11

Arab Planning Institute - Kuwait

www.arab-api.org

12

Association of Banks in Palestine

www.abp.ps

13

Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce and Industry is independent, voluntary, non-political and non-profit entity, which includes manufacturers, merchants and professional men in its membership. The BCCI aims to accelerate local commercial growth and to promote a needed commercial cooperation with regional and international chambers of commerce. The BCCI is inclusively enrolled under the umbrella of the Palestinian Federation for the Chambers of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture centered in Jerusalem and whose membership includes fifteen Palestinian Chambers.

The BCCI’s mission statement:The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Bethlehem Governorate is committed to organize, represent and protect the interests of the private sector, to develop contacts with local and foreign chambers and to enhance economic and production activities. It seeks to provide high quality services to members and to assist in creating a healthy business environment to enable meet their urgent and future needs to reach a satisfactory manner produce.

Like other trade entities, the Chamber of Commerce & Industry exists to advance and protect the trading interests of its members

www.bethlehem-chamber.org

14

Building & Construction Research Center (BCRC) - Palestine

BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH CENTER (BCRC) is a Non Governmental Organization based in Ramallah, West Bank, (Palestinian National Authority). It has been established for the purpose of ‘promoting the interests and general advancement of the building and construction industries as a whole to participate in a sustainable economical development processes in Palestine’.

BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH CENTER (BCRC) mission is to cover the technical, economical, environmental, organizational and other aspects of the building and construction environment throughout their life cycle, addressing all steps in the process. In addition, the center provides help in reconstruction of the demolished infrastructure, buildings, and private property in Palestine. The center also provides technical support and know-how to the construction sector. The center facilitates technological transfer, and function as an information center and advisor to authorities, policy makers, specifiers and owners on building and construction matters. The center focuses on serving the Palestinian society in conducting research, technical studies, laboratory testing and training activities in the field of construction and environmental technology.

15

Business Women Forum – Palestine

The Business Women Forum is a national non-profit association based in Ramallah, established in 2006 by a group of businesswomen. The core belief of the Forum is that women’s economical participation plays an essential role in the development of the Palestinian economy.

The Forum aims to develop and strengthen the Palestinian businesswomen’s role in the development of the economy and a democratic Palestinian community. The Forum also aims to become a distinctive institution on a national level in terms of the quality and inclusiveness of its services to women entrepreneurs. Our ambition is for this forum to become a model for the rest of the Arab Businesswomen to follow.

16

Center for Continuing Education (CCE)Birzeit University

The Center for Continuing Education (CCE) is a Birzeit University community interface arm. Since its establishment in 1991, CCE has been working on developing human resources and upgrading the skills and capabilities of professionals and organizations. To this end, the Center draws on its own knowledge resources and those in the rest of the University through the “Knowledge Consortium” initiated recently, and on expertise in the local and international community. The clientele served is local, national and regional civil society organizations, as well as the private and public sectors. The Center relies heavily on knowledge sharing and integrates knowledge management in its core business.

CCE is currently engaged in 4 strategic programs. They are the Knowledge-Based Industry Development Program, the Capacity Building for educational institutions program (CAPABILITY), The Public Sector Reform program, and NGO empowerment program.

CCE considers distinction and creativity in institutional and individual performance as the cornerstones of its strategic vision. As such, the Center takes upon itself the mission to build the capacity of institutions and individuals to achieve their goals and aspirations in line with the values and principles upheld by Birzeit University.

cceweb.birzeit.edu

www.birzeit.edu

17

Center for Development and Labor Studies Association – Gaza

18

Center for Urban & Regional StudiesAn-Najah National University (CURP)

www.najah.edu

19

Chamber of Commerce & IndustryRamallah & Al-Bireh Gov.

www.ramallahcci.org

20

Deanship of Academic ResearchHebron University

Ever since its establishment in 2001, the Deanship of Academic Research has been attaching utmost priority to organize, encourage and support creative academic research. We are a proponent of an active project based science education. We believe that rigorous, challenging and practical research will enhance and facilitate the learning outcomes and the communication between the faculty members and their students. In a “cut-throat” competition, faculty members who are determined and willing to explore and to indulge in research will be the corner stones of modern intuitions of higher learning. In “Publish or Perish” culture, all faculties are urged to be involved in research. For fulfilling these objectives, the Deanship established the “Research Council” which supervise and administer all ongoing research projects in the institution funded internally or externally in addition to providing support services for faculty members in respect to research activities.

The Deanship administer as well Hebron University Research Journal (HURJ), a peer reviewed annual journal that publish authentic research articles in the fields of humanities and natural sciences.

www.hebron.edu

21

Deanship of Scientific Research - An-Najah National University

www.najah.edu

22

Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture

www.pal-chambers.org

23

Hebron Chamber of Commerce & Industry

www.hebroncci.org

24

Institute of Business and EconomicAL-Quds University

The institute of Business and Economics combines theoretical and practical education to prepare students for administrative careers. Special emphasis is placed on education for the working adult student and on major and minor courses of study which relate to job opportunities available in Palestine. Course requirements are flexible enough to allow students, with the help of their advisors, to design program which best meet their personal objectives. Teaching emphasis is placed on case studies, computer analysis of collected data and independent work projects. Guest lecturers from private sector and public organizations interact regularly with students. Since most students are employed receiving bachelors’ degrees, they, have much to contribute to group studies and classroom discussions. In keeping with the Al Quds mission to educate the whole person, the institute rounds out academic programs with seminars, workshops and a variety of activities, which benefit the community as well as students.

www.alquds.edu

25

Jenin Chamber of Commerce, Industry, & Agriculture

www.jenincci.org.ps

26

Jerusalem Arab Chamber of Commerce & Industry

The Jerusalem Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry was founded in 1936.

Ever since, the Chamber has been active, competent and dynamic in the Holy City of Jerusalem.

During the years of occupation, the Chamber continued rendering services to the residents of Jerusalem through its administrative activities. The Chamber is not only looking forward to offering its members the best services, but is also aiming at strengthening its relation with its General Assembly, comprising both the tradesmen and the industrialists. This intention will hopefully enable trade and economy in the city to once again flourish, and as a result blood will flow again in the veins of Jerusalem while recovering healthily and spiritually for a better future.

www.jerusalemchamber.org

27

Jerusalem Center for Social and Economic Rights

The Jerusalem Center for Social & Economic Rights (JCSER) is a Palestinian non-governmental human rights organization based in Jerusalem. It was established in 1997 by lawyers and members of the Palestinian community of Jerusalem to provide legal assistance and representation to Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem subjected to discriminatory policies by the Israeli authorities.

JCSER fits in the context of Palestinian political strategies today. It makes use of the Israeli system to help Palestinian Jerusalemites survive in the city. It seeks ways to take the initiative to proactively fight discrimination and improve conditions of daily life in the short term without conferring political legitimacy on Israel’s illegal annexation of East Jerusalem.

The Center was developed from a local committee established in 1992 to support Palestinian residents of East Jerusalem unable to pay the Israeli Municipal Business and Property (Arnona) Tax. This committee, made up of local residents, started negotiations with the municipality and organized demonstrations and strikes. In 1994, the group took legal action against the Jerusalem Municipality concerning its discriminatory application of the Arnona Tax and requested that the Arnona classification be changed. This was the first time that Palestinian Jerusalemites negotiated with Israeli institutions and used Israeli law to deal with this type of systematic discrimination and injustice. The establishment of JCSER was the result of this grassroots effort.

www.jcser.org

28

Jordan Chamber of Commerce (JCC)

www.jocc.org.jo

29

Jordanian Businessmen Association

www.jba.com.jo

30

MA’AN Development Center - Palestine

MA’AN Development Center is an independent Palestinian development and training institution established in 1989, registered by law as a non-profit organization. The main office is located in Ramallah and the three branch offices are located in Gaza, Jenin, and Salfeet. MA’AN’s work is informed by the necessity of creating independent, self-reliant initiatives that lead to the development of human resources for sustainable development, which incorporate values of self-sufficiency and self-empowerment.

MA’AN’s mission is to work towards sustainable human development in Palestine through:

- Building the capacities of Palestinian NGOs, CBOs, and grassroots organizations.

- Improving the food security situation of the poorest and most marginalized sectors of the Palestinian society.

- Enhancing community development and decreasing poverty in rural and most disadvantaged areas.

- Protecting the Palestinian environment.

Advocacy and raising awareness for the national rights at the community, national, and international level.

www.maan-ctr.org

31

Nablus Chamber of Commerce & Industry

A non - profit, self - financed private institution, established in Nablus in 1943. (NCCI) is a member in the Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (FPCCIA) which is located in Jerusalem. Currently, the registered members are almost 7000 and they represent the General Assembly. The General Assembly elects 12 members for the Council of Administration for a period of four years. The Chairman and the Council of Administration are considered volunteers for public services and the Chamber is regarded as a consultative entity in all economic affaires.

OUR MISSIONSeeking to be the pioneering Chamber in enhancing the economic status of Nablus City locally and regionally by providing the highest quality services which contribute in strengthening the role of the Private Sector in Nablus. And to make Nablus an energetic trade center by activating all commercial and industrial sectors in addition to cooperate with the Government in creating a strong local economy.

OUR VISIONToday we are in a competitive and rapidly changing world, SO MUST WE. Our goals are far - reaching but attainable focusing on the Private Sector in particular. We will be more efficient by controlling and directing the future ahead much better. We will understand the needs and aspirations that Private Sector is seeking. We will be broadening (NCCI) future view so as to always meet the rapidly changing needs of the business society.

www.nablus-chamber.org

32

Nazareth Cultural and Tourism Association

The Nazareth Cultural & Tourism Association was founded in 1999 to address the economic & cultural challenges that were happening at that time, over time it developed into an important partner for public and private institution.

We are an independent, non profit, non partisan, secular association. Our Association is based on principles of democracy, gender equality, cultural pluralism and social justice.

Our aims are to promote cultural in all its diversity, enriching the city’s landscape with various cultural activities and programs. We strive to reach economic justice and reduce poverty and employment through tourism. Within the both we are aiming to promote the dialogue between different cultures - Arabs and Jews and the many strangers visiting Nazareth. We see economic justice, culture and tourism as intertwining fields, where we can use one to promote and strengthen the other.

www.nazarethinfo.org

33

NGO Development Center - Palestine

The NGO Development Center (NDC) is the largest Palestinian organization of its kind working hand-in-hand with Palestinian NGOs, local cooperatives, and community development organizations to enhance their service delivery and build a more capable, responsive Palestinian NGO Sector. NDC’s programs and grants empower Palestinians to help Palestinians by providing NGOs the skills, tools and funds they require to address social needs and promote self-reliance amidst adversity to provide quality services. The organization advocates greater NGO transparency and accountability through the adoption of professional financial and management practices, and promotes sector-wide coordination and sharing of best practice experiences (www.ndc.ps).

Although only recently institutionalized in March of 2006, NDC has served as the main mechanism rendering support to the Palestinian NGO sector for the last ten years. Prior to 2006, NDC functioned through two consecutive phases of the Palestinian NGO Project PNGO I/II of the Welfare Association Consortium which successfully invested over US $50 million from the World Bank and other donors into the Palestinian NGO sector, from which more than 500 NGOs benefited. Today, NDC is managing the Palestinian NGO Project III (PNGO III) funded by the World Bank or an amount of USD 10 million, a project that aims to provide social services to those who are poor, vulnerable or affected by the deteriorating socioeconomic conditions. This project also contributes towards the institutional development of the Palestinian NGO sector. NDC was also delegated the implementation of a Job Creation Project, funded by the AFD (Agency Française de Dévéloppement) for an amount of €D 6 million to be implemented in the West Bank and Gaza. Besides these two large projects, NDC is managing two other self-sustainable programs, namely Masader (www.masader.ps) and Unified (www.unified.ps).

www.ndc.ps

34

Opinion Polls and Survey Studies CenterAn-Najah National University

www.najah.edu

35

Palestine Fair Trade Association (PFTA)

www.palestinefairtrade.org

36

Palestine Institute For Financial & Banking Studies

www.pifbs.com

37

Palestine Project Management Association “PMA”

Palestine Project Management Association “PMA” is non-profit association located at the Palestinian Territories registered under licensed No. “7837” working on developing a professional well educated community that can implement and operate projects in the most effective way based on international theories, ideas and principles related to project management. PMA publishes project management knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to drive project managers to meets project objectives.

PMA VISIONDeploy the international theories, ideas and principles related to project management in the Palestinian society. And establishing a professional Palestinian forum for project manager’s discussions and publishing the awareness of project management development ways in the Palestinian society according to the enterprise point of view.

PMA MISSIONThe main propose for establishment PMA is to provide project managers with enough knowledge and advanced education in projects management field that helps them in having suitable decisions through the different stages for the project life cycle and knowing the effective styles for every stage. And increase their managerial skills by developing the administrative skills as to have successful projects according to the international project management methods. Also clarify to the project managers the bases for vital concepts of this field for the complete project and the detailed components and the consolidation of understanding the projects administration nature and its role in making a success projects and the skills that is needs to manage the human and material sources, building the work groups, the quality administration, and the styles of purchase and contracting.

www.pmi.ps

38

Palestine Trade Center – PaltradeThe main objective of Paltrade is to lead the process of development and contribute to the promotion of Palestinian trade as an effective element in realizing sustainable development of the national economy.

As a national institution for the development and promotion of trade, and due to the fact that it represents more than 230 leading Palestinian companies, Paltrade promotes and creates a competitive environment for commercial activities. It also works to improve trade competition by promoting trade and strengthening private sector companies.

The activities and services of Paltrade are in line with strategies for trade development oriented on a sector basis. These activities are enhanced through the assessment of opportunities and obstacles in various sectors.

These strategies are utilized through integral services and activities in order to activate the basic sectors, upholding their ability to export and compete in targeted markets.

Paltrade’s mission is to develop trade through:Support for developing a competitive environment suitable for Palestine trade activities.Promotion of Palestine trade and the opening of new markets.Adoption of ideal practices and international standards for the international trade of specialized trade companies and institutions.Ensuring commercial information, which leads to the improvement of trade performance and its competitive ability.

www.paltrade.org

39

Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees (P.A.R.C)

PARC is a leading Palestinian NGO working in the field of rural development, environment protection, and women empowerment. We offer technical assistance and support, along with extension services to individuals and organizations working in similar fields. In carrying out our projects and activities, we rely upon the active and broad grassroots participation of our beneficiaries, and, in process, develop our experts’ capabilities and improve our employees’ skills. By doing so, we aim to significantly contribute to the building of a Palestinian democratic and civil society.

www.parc.ps

www.pal-arc.org

40

Palestinian Association of Certified Public Accountants (PACPA)

www.pacpa.ps

41

Palestinian Businessmen Association

The Palestinian Businessmen Association (PBA) was initiated to fill a gap & to represent the dynamic Palestinian business community with all its sectors. To act as a consolidating factor to the Palestinian Economy, a force in economic decision making, participate in the formation & issuing of laws concerning the economy & the social welfare of our citizens, cooperate & coordinate with the Palestinian National Authority & its institutions on all levels and to enhance & bring about, up front, the role of the Palestinian businessmen & women to influence the daily aspects of the Palestinian Economy. For that the PBA is constantly in contact with the majority of the local, regional & foreign business institutions to facilitate cooperation amongst all ,Through several joint business councils. The PBA embraces a wide range of well-reputed entrepreneurs. It comprises over 250 members of senior businessmen and women in Palestine active in different Palestinian economic sectors including industry, commerce, agriculture, banking, insurance, construction, hotel management and tourism, IT, transport & others.

www.pba.ps

42

Palestinian Businesswomen’s Association – AsalaEstablished in 1997

Asala’s MissionAsala is a leading Microfinance Institution working to provide financial & non financial services that help women living in poverty to change their lives, their social position and their future by their successful participation in Economic Activities established since 1997.

Asala’s GoalThe main goal of Asala is to empower Palestinian women entrepreneurs through providing them with flexible loans to start or expand their businesses with continuous training and counseling services.

**Since 1997 ASALA disbursed a total of 11,000 loans with total value o f approximately US$ 10 Million for Palestinian women entrepreneurs.

www.asala-pal.com

43

Palestinian Contractors Union (PCU)

www.pcu.org.ps

44

Palestinian Economists Association

Fostering economic and social dialogueThe Palestinian Economists Association (PEA) was established in 1988 to promote sustainable and equitable socio-economic development in Palestine by mobilizing economists and other specialists to engage in research and debate on the economy and policymaking in Palestine.

Based in Ramallah, West Bank, with a membership of over 400 professionals, academics and practitioners in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, the PEA aspires to be an ‘action oriented’ economic think. The PEA seeks to assist policymakers and private sector representatives in facing the challenges of state building, economic growth, and poverty reduction.

45

Palestinian Federation of Industries (PFI)

www.pfi.ps

46

Palestinian Heritage Center

The Palestinian Heritage Center (PHC) was established in 1991 in Bethlehem. The Center works tirelessly at protecting, preserving and promoting Palestinian Cultural Heritage, especially the art of embroidery. At the center you can find hand-made embroidered items such as: Dresses, jackets, shawls, accessories, cushions and wall hangings. All the items are produced by the women from villages and refugee camps around the city of Bethlehem. The PHC also produces its own posters and postcards. These images represent women in traditional dresses photographed within the religious, historic or archaeological setting of their village or region. The center revives the Palestinian embroidery by renting out traditional Palestinian wedding attires for women and men and incorporating embroidery on modern clothing. Visitors can enjoy the small museum and learn about traditional Palestinian household items. Everyone is welcome.

Founder and Director Maha Saca – Bethlehem

www.phc.ps

47

Palestinian Insurance Federation - PIF

www.pif.org.ps

48

Palestinian IT Association of Companies “PITA”

The Palestinian Information Technology Association of Companies was founded in early 1999 as a membership-based organization for locally-registered companies specialized in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT).

PITA evolved as a strong organization representing 80 major ICT companies and became the main pillar in defending the interests of the ICT sector. PITA maintains tight cooperation with various national and international organizations to provide high-quality technical assistance to its members and the ICT sector in general. Further, PITA actively coordinates with local legislative bodies to create an attractive investment environment by upholding Intellectual Property Rights and adopting laws that are vital for the development of the sector.

PITA main objectives:- To organize, promote and support the interests of the members.

- To help members advance their skills and capabilities.

- To help organize the market and open new business opportunities.

www.pita-palestine.org

49

Palestinian Shippers’ Council (PSC)

The Palestinian Shippers’ Council (PSC) represents and protects the interests of Palestinian shippers (importers and exporters) and industries that are end-users of maritime shipping, air freight and land transport. The Council takes upon itself to contribute to Palestinian economic development and trade expansion through measures that promote trade efficiency and facilitation at all stages of the maritime, air, land and related transport logistical chain. PSC went beyond all expectations by increasing its number of members from 17 in the preparatory committee to 350 members from different region.

www.psc.ps

50

Palestinian Women’s Research &Documentation Center

www.pwrdc.org

51

Planning & Development Dept. - Palestine Polytechnic University

www.ppu.edu

52

Qalqilia Chamber of Commerce,Industry and Agriculture

www.qalqiliachamber.org

53

Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA)

Under the auspices and progressive guidance of H.H the Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) was founded by the ministerial decree no.14 for the year 2002 as a non-governmental, non-profitable organization. The founding members and all other members of QBA share the same vision as H.H the Emir in creating a diversified, sustainable, and resilient economy. Knowing that the private sector is a main pillar for robust economy our association serves as strong catalyst that offers a solid foundation for the economic development of Qatar’s private sector and provides a forum for idea exchange. Together we aim to be a major vehicle, consensus builder and advocate for a thriving economic climate in the state of Qatar.

www.qataribusinessmen.org

54

Salfeet Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture

Salfeet chamber of commerce industry and agriculture established in 1997 in Salfeet city, Mr. Nabil Ozreel was the chairman from 1997-2002, and Mr. Fuad Awad was elected as a new chairman.

The chamber works to organize the commercial interests, makes relationships with local and foreign chambers and between the members.

It carries out different activities: collecting industrial information and statistics, publishing them to the concerned persons and official departments, held workshops, organizes visiting conferences and exhibitions, presents services for the members such as certificates of origin and permits to enter Israel …etc.

The number of our members until now is 1360 in several fields.

www.salfeetchamber.org

55

Sidreh

Sidreh is a grassroots Arab Bedouin women organization in the Negev established in 1998 by a group of Bedouin women from different locations in the Negev. Sidreh’s main goal is to improve the status of Arab Bedouin women in the Negev through personal, social and economic empowerment programmes.

Sidreh offers a variety of programmes for Bedouin women and their families in three main fields - economy, education and women leadership. These are aimed at women of all ages; designed for better coping with the life demands of today’s society; designed with cultural sensitivity; based upon the needs of the community. Sidreh implements its project all over the Negev, in the recognized and unrecognized villages.

www.lakiya.org

56

The Chamber of Commerce Industry & Agriculture - Tulkarm

www.tulkarmchamber.org

57

The East Jerusalem YMCA

The East Jerusalem YMCA is a vibrant and integral part of the Palestinian social movement. As a member of the World Alliance of YMCAs , the EJ-YMCA is committed to a unique vision of community based on the universal values of human dignity, peace, and justice. Through diverse programs and activities with a focus on holistic youth development, the YMCA aims to work toward the building of a viable Palestinian state based on equality and social justice for all. The YMCA believes that faithfulness to its Christian mission, which embodies openness to all religions in a spirit of love and service, will bring about the transformation of society. Within the context of oppression and Israeli military occupation, the YMCA is a beacon of hope for Palestinians throughout the West Bank . The East Jerusalem YMCA is committed to the World Council of YMCAs Challenge 21 , a document formulated to aid YMCAs throughout the world to renew an understanding of their mission in the new millennium.

www.ej-ymca.org

58

The Palestinian Farmers Union

The Palestinian Farmers Union is a popular framework was established at 1993, it includes (16) member Farmers Associations from all the Palestinian Districts including the West Bank and Gaza Strip, these Associations included (9831) farmers, PFU also works in partnership with (57) Cooperative Associations, including (3040) members.

The Palestinian Farmers Union works on organizing and building the capacity of farmers organizations to enable them to defend their rights and benefits, it works as a national umbrella aims to work, network and coordinate with similar Arabic and international organizations. PFU is looking to become Palestinian framers framework and representative, to reach with them a stage where they become able to defend their rights and benefits and to share actively in the national development at an independent democratic state.

www.pafu.ps

59

The Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy - MIFTAH

An independent, democratic and sovereign Palestinian state, which grants Palestinians their basic rights, preserves their dignity, and enjoys international recognition and respect.

MISSIONMIFTAH seeks to promote the principles of democracy and good governance within various components of Palestinian society; it further seeks to engage local and international public opinion and official circles on the Palestinian cause. To that end, MIFTAH adopts the mechanisms of an active and in-depth dialogue, the free flow of information and ideas, as well as local and international networking.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVESTo disseminate the Palestinian narrative and discourse globally to both official and popular bodies and decision-makers.

To empower effective leadership within all components of Palestinian society in order to enhance democracy and good governance and raise public awareness concerning the rights and responsibilities of good citizenship.

To influence policy and legislation to ensure their safeguarding of civil and social rights for all sectors and their adherence to principles of good governance.

To bolster MIFTAH’s capacity and its capability to achieve its objectives and mission efficiently and effectively.

www.miftah.org

60

The Institute for Area Studies (IAS)AL-Quds University

The Institute for Area Studies (IAS) began in the academic year 1996-1997 with the approval of Al-Quds University and the Palestinian Council for Higher Education to provide an M.A. degree and a diploma. IAS students who complete the requirements successfully and meet the conditions of the University’s Council for Graduate Studies, currently graduate in one of three specializations offered: Contemporary Arab Studies Israeli Studies and American Studies.

IAS is in the process of developing a Fourth M.A. program in European Studies . It is also hoped that other programs will be established in East Asian Studies.

www.alquds.edu

61

Union of Stone & Marble Industry – USM In Palestine

www.usm-pal.org

62

YWCA of Palestine

The History of the YWCA of Palestine has been closely linked to the history of Palestine, and has been affected by the tumultuous events of the whole region. As early as 1893, informal groups of Christian women were meeting in Jaffa and Jerusalem as YWCA groups. In 1918, the YWCA of Palestine was established in Jerusalem. The events of 1948 and 1967 constituted serious challenges but also enabled the YWCA to reach out to more women and children, particularly in the refugee camps.

Throughout the years, the YWCA has developed a wide range of programs and projects aimed at empowering and providing them with educational, cultural, and training opportunities to develop their skills and personalities, and to support them to actively participate in developing themselves, their families, and their communities.

www.ywca-palestine.org

63

64

Names of Institutions

International non-profitSupporting Organizations

65

ACDI / VOCA - West Bank Field Office

“ACDI/VOCA is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes broad-based economic growth and the development of civil society in emerging democracies and developing countries. Offering a comprehensive range of technical assistance services, ACDI/VOCA addresses the most pressing and intractable development problems. Driven by the goal of adding value to local enterprise, ACDI/VOCA helps build businesses, agricultural systems, financial systems, and grassroots organizations that underlie prosperous free markets and stable democracies.”

www.acdivoca.org

66

American Arab Chamber of Commerce

As the American Arab Chamber of Commerce begins its 16th year, we see a growing and energized Arab American business community. The goals for which the Chamber was established in 1992 are as vital today as they were at the Chamber’s founding: help Arab American businesses grow and flourish. The founders hoped to create an organization that would elevate the stature of Arab American businesses, build alliances with the larger corporations and provide products and services that help the Arab American business bottom line.

By extension, the work of advocating for Arab American businesses has had the effect of uplifting the Arab American community at large. The well being of the community has a direct impact of the financial health of the businesses that operate there.

www.americanarab.com

67

American Federation of Ramallah, Palestine

Ten miles north of Jerusalem lies a town called Ramallah, “God’s Hill”. It is said that Jesus Christ passed through this town many times on his way to Jerusalem. Crusaders in the Holy Land, in the 11th through the 13th centuries, built a fortified castle in Ramallah that overlooked the coastal plains of the Mediterranean Sea. In the 1900’s residents of Ramallah began to immigrate to the United States.

Today, there are 30,000 people living in the United States of America. They are concentrated in such major cities as San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego, Santa Rosa, and Los Angeles CA; Jacksonville, FL; Houston, TX; Detroit, MI; Chicago, IL; Washington, DC; Knoxville, TN; Lexington, KY; Greensboro, NC; Birmingham, AL; Cleveland, OH; Little Rock, AR; Buffalo and Hempstead, NY; Milwaukee, WI; and South Plainfield, NJ. In all these cities, chapters were formed making up the American Federation of Ramallah, Palestine. It was established in 1959 and Headquartered in Detroit, Michigan.

www.afrp.org

68

Arab American Foundation

Arab American Institute

The Arab American Institute (AAI) represents the policy and community interests of Arab Americans throughout the United States and strives to promote Arab American participation in the U.S. electoral system. AAI focuses on two areas: campaigns and elections and policy formation and research. The Institute strives to serve as a central resource to government officials, the media, political leaders and community groups and a variety of public policy issues that concern Arab Americans and U.S. – Arab relations.

www.aaiusa.org

69

Arab-Belgium-Luxemburg Chamber of Commerce

Member of the General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for Arab Countries since 1978, the ABLCC fulfils an essential link between the two parties belgo-luxemburg and Arab. A Strategic Partnership for Effective Results

The ABLCC constantly strives to improve the services it offers to the business community. Export and investment promotion initiatives, thereby encouraging the emergence of an economic and trade network fully integrated into the globalisation process. Member companies have access to information for the realisation of international business transactions, thus allowing them to take full advantage of the enormous possibilities of a complementary market between the Arab world and Belgian-Luxembourg entities.

www.ccbla.org

70

Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and Industry

www.cciap.pt

71

Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce

The Arab-Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CASCI) was created in 1974. According to the Statutes, the Chamber is a non-profitable organisation, established to promote the economic and cultural relations between Switzerland and the Arab Countries members of the League of Arab States:

Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros Islands, Djibouti, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

www.casci.ch

72

Aspen Institute

The Aspen Institute is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering enlightened leadership and open-minded dialogue. Through seminars, policy programs, conferences and leadership development initiatives, the Institute and its international partners seek to promote nonpartisan inquiry and an appreciation for timeless values.

www.aspeninstitute.org

73

Association of Business Executives

ABE is an awarding body for professional business & management qualifications and is the qualification of choice for tens of thousands of employers and aspiring business professionals worldwide.

www.abeuk.com

74

Australia Arab Chamber of Commerceand Industry - AACCI

The Australia Arab Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (AACCI) was founded in 1975, under the auspices of the then Federal Department of Trade and Resources, and has become the peak Australian association for business with the Arab League.

The Chamber is affiliated with the General Union of Arab Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture (GUACCIA), Australian Business in the Gulf (ABIG) and other Trade associations and Chambers in the Arab League.

The National Secretariat is located in Canberra with Chapters established in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia. Each State Chapter is represented on the National Council enabling input into the formulation of National policies and programs. The National Secretariat maintains a very close liaison with Australian Government Ministers, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Austrade and the Arab Diplomatic Corps.

Membership, currently around 500, comprises a diverse range of Australian companies and organisations involved in trade, commerce, education and industry with the 22 Arab Countries.

The focus of the Chamber is on assisting its members through the collection and dissemination of information relating to bilateral trade opportunities, and working to ensure Government policy decisions are compatible with members’ interests.

www.austarab.com.au

AACCI

75

Austro - Arab Chamber of Commerce

The aim of the Austro-Arab Chamber of Commerce is to support Austrian companies in exporting to Arab countries be it goods, technologies, consultancies or other know-how.

Vice-versa we are happy to encourage all kinds of Arab companies to do the same in relation to Austria.

For this purpose we do a number of activities of different kinds:

- Lectures and panel discussions on economic and cultural issues (12 events in 2008 only).

- An annual Arab-Austrian Economic Forum & Trade Fair (small and efficient).

- Publishing 10 Newsletters with useful information yearly (short and interesting).

- Answering queries related to the members business and that of other interested parties in a professional manner.

- Organising consultation days with experts from specific Arab countries.

For more information kindly check our website

www.aacc.at

76

Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry /BCCI/ is a nationally represented horizontal non-profit private NGO with more than 49 000 members, registered in the Trade Register at the Chamber.. Its activities and provided services cover the whole geographical territory of Bulgaria through the nationally represented membership, on the one hand, and through the network of the 28 regional chambers of commerce and industry, incorporated in a nationally represented structure, on the other. Its priorities concern the representation and advocacy of the interests of its member companies and of the business circles and entrepreneurs in the country.

The Chamber is one of the officially acknowledged social partner in the national tripartite dialogue.

The BCCI is a part of the integrated international network of chambers of commerce throughout the world, maintaining direct contacts with 200 of them.

www.bcci.bg

77

Chamber of Commerce and Industryof Southern Sweden

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Southern Sweden is the only regional business organisation that represents companies in southern Sweden.

This is done through long-term work for a better business climate plus business support and network expansion for more and better business.

The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Southern Sweden is Sweden’s largest chamber of commerce and a strong voice for the region.

www.handelskammaren.com

78

Chambre de Commerce Franco-Arabe

The main missions of the Chamber are to promote the economic and commercial exchanges between France and the Arab countries, and encourage the direct investments and the development of exports. Many communication tools were displayed towards the enterprises in order to be much closer to its expectations.

The chamber presents a personalized assistance to its members in their approach studies and their commercial relationships and gives an access to all its economic operators, on information and accompaniment services intended for a larger target. These services are mainly:

- The Economic Events.

- The Business Opportunities.

- The Information Service.

- The Regional and Euro-Arab Cooperation.

- The Service of Authentication of commercial documents.

This web site is an access to the Chamber magazine, the Conciliation and Arbitration Euro Arab Council, the macro-economic information for the Arab countries, the e mails campaign and the electronic links with our essential partners. It aims first to reinforce the cooperation and the friendship between France and the Arab countries.

www.ccfranco-arabe.org

79

Czech Arab Chamber of Commerce

The establishment of the Czech Arab Chamber of Commerce (CACC) was initiated by the Conference on Czech – Arab Commercial Relations which took place on the 8th of February 1994. CACC was registered on the 8th of August 1994 as an association of legal entities. Since 1996 CACC has been transformed into a joint Czech Arab Chamber of Commerce and 8 Arab countries are represented in the Chamber´s Board of Directors. At the present time CACC has among its members leading industrial companies, banks, export and import companies and private businessmen. It provides its members and interested partners with standard services as information on business opportunities, business partners, legal conditions for business, terms of commercial contracts and particularities of commercial relations.

Since its establishment the Chamber has organized a number of different activities, as seminars, missions of entrepreneurs to Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Algeria as well as meetings of Czech and Arab businessmen aimed at development of commercial relations between the Czech Republic and Arab countries.

www.czaok.cz

80

DLA Piper

With more than 3,700 lawyers in 64 offices in 25 countries, we help companies around the world succeed by meeting their legal needs wherever they do business.

We know that, in order for our advice and solutions to be effective, we need to engage completely with our clients to fully understand their businesses and their deeper legal needs. This means taking a long-term view and investing in relationships as well as in our own people, processes, and services. Our clients include local, national, and global companies across a wide range of sectors, ranging from emerging businesses to some of the leading national and multinational companies.

www.dlapiper.com

81

European Palestinian Chamber of Commerce EPCC

Established in 1989 by a group of Palestinian businessmen and politicians, the European Palestinian Chamber of Commerce (EPCC) is a non-profit making independent organization based in East Jerusalem. Founded at a time when the EU was advocating the policy that the Palestinians should benefit from the same trade arrangements as Israel, its philosophy is based on the premise that there is no reason why Palestine itself should not take advantage of the European market and thereby develop special links with the EU.

The Chamber aims to provide services and information to Palestinian companies wanting to export to Europe; to provide information to European partners interested in Palestinian investment opportunities or export markets.

The EPCC is interested in promoting free trade in order to allow Palestinians to take a full role in the Middle Eastern, and ultimately, world economy.

82

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Serving both developed and developing countries, FAO acts as a neutral forum where all nations meet as equals to negotiate agreements and debate policy. FAO is also a source of knowledge and information. We help developing countries and countries in transition modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries practices and ensure good nutrition for all. Since our founding in 1945, we have focused special attention on developing rural areas, home to 70 percent of the world’s poor and hungry people. helping to build a world without hunger

www.fao.org

83

Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation

The Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation (HCEF) is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization founded in 1998 by an ecumenical group of American Christians committed to maintain the presence and growth of the Arab Christians in the Holy Land, and to develop bonds of solidarity between them and the Christians in the world. HCEF seeks to replace despair with hope, fear with security and humiliation with human dignity. HCEF is committed to its mission to educate people in the globe about the Christian presence in the Holy Land, build community between Christians around the world and Arab Christians, develop a bond of solidarity through partnership programs for future cooperation, promote Peace and Justice in the Holy Land by removing the causes of the human suffering, and select and oversee specific projects designed to provide better living conditions for the Arab Christians in the Holy Land. Project areas focus on creating employment, advancing education, building and rehabilitating houses, and developing the growth of children of the Holy Land.

For more details please visit the website at

www.hcef.org

84

International Foundation for Election Systems

International Foundation for Election Systems is a nonprofit democracy development organization that works to give people a voice in the way that they are governed. IFES is the world’s premiere election assistance organization, providing countries with the technical advice and tools they need to run democratic elections. Our work is nonpartisan and also includes projects that:

- Help citizens participate in their democracies.

- Increase politicians’ accountability to the electorate.

- Strengthen government institutions.

Since its founding in 1987, IFES has worked in more than 100 countries - from developing democracies such as Liberia, to mature democracies such as the United States. Every IFES project is staffed by local personnel and our team partners with local organizations. With this homegrown approach, IFES ensures that the expertise it offers fits the needs of the country or client and that the benefit of assistance outlasts the life of the project.

www.ifes.org

85

International Labour OrganizationThe International Labour Organization (ILO) is the UN specialized agency which seeks social justice and promotes equal opportunities for women and men to obtain decent and productive work in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. As the world’s only tripartite multilateral agency, the ILO is dedicated to bringing decent work and livelihoods, job-related security and better living standards to the people of both poor and rich countries. It helps to attain those goals by promoting rights at work, encouraging opportunities for decent employment, enhancing social protection and strengthening dialogue on work-related issues.

The ILO is the international meeting place for the world of work. ILO is the expert on work and employment and particularly on the critical role that these issues play in bringing about economic development and progress. The heart of its mission is helping countries build the institutions that are the bulwarks of democracy and to help them become accountable to the people.

The ILO’s diverse tasks are grouped under four strategic objectives:- Promote and realize standards and fundamental principles and rights at work. - Create greater opportunities for women and men to secure decent employment and income. - Enhance the coverage and effectiveness of social protection for all. - Strengthen tripartism and social dialogue.

The ILO and according to its structure, deals with a tripartite structure of government, workers and employers. It formulates international labour standards in the form of Conventions and Recommendations setting minimum standards of basic labour rights: freedom of association, the right to organize, collective bargaining, abolition of forced labour, equality of opportunity and treatment, and other standards regulating conditions across the entire spectrum of work related issues. Being the only ‘tripartite’ United Nations agency, it helps bring together representatives of governments, employers and workers to jointly shape policies and programmes.

www.ilo.org

86

Japan Bank for International Cooperation

Japan Bank for International Cooperation has a statutory mandate to undertake lending and other operations for the promotion of Japanese exports, imports and economic activities overseas; for the stability of international financial order; and for economic and social development as well as economic stability in the developing economies, thereby contributing to the sound development of the Japanese economy as well as international economy. JBIC operates under the principle that it will not compete with financial institutions in the private sector.

www.jbic.go.jp

87

Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)

JETRO (Japan External Trade Organization) is a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. Originally established in 1958 to promote Japanese exports abroad, JETRO’s core focus in the 21st century has shifted toward promoting foreign direct investment into Japan and helping small to medium size Japanese firms maximize their global export potential. Backed by a worldwide network comprising JETRO Tokyo Headquarters, JETRO Osaka, the Institute of Developing Economies (IDE), and 36 offices throughout Japan and more than 70 overseas, JETRO is;

- Promoting foreign direct investment (FDI) into Japan.

- Facilitating economic growth in developing countries through trade promotion.

- Cooperating in Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).

- Assisting Japan’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

- Supplying Japan with foreign economic information.

- Promoting cross-border business tie-ups in high-tech and other key industry sectors.

- Helping Japanese firms expand overseas and aiding efforts to protect intellectual property.

- Researching developing economies (IDE).

www.jetro.go.jp

88

Japan International Cooperation Agency - JICA

Founded in 1974, the Japan International Cooperation Agency is an implementation agency for technical assistance, focusing on systems building, organization strengthening and human resource development that will enable recipient countries to pursue their own sustainable socio-economic development. JICA’s work is broad in scope and reflects international concerns and changing needs in recipient countries. To traditional sectors such as agriculture and social infrastructure, JICA has recently added assistance to combat infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and SARS, support to encourage free market economies or set up legal systems, and support for the peace-building and reconstruction efforts in countries such as Afghanistan and East Timor.

www.jica.go.jp

89

MEDEF International

The MEDEF International puts French company bosses in touch with public and private decision-makers the world over.

Through its worldwide network, it encourages the development of all French firms, particularly SMEs, at the international level.

Every year, The MEDEF International organises a number of delegations of French business leaders with concrete projects to targeted countries. These delegations enable businessmen and women to meet decision-makers at the highest level, to identify partners and to become familiar with the business environment.

In France, The MEDEF International organises meetings between foreign heads of state and government and business men with French business leaders, helping the latter to realise their projects and resolve potential difficulties.

Finally, working groups enable businessmen and women to swap accounts of their experiences, their successes and their failures.

www.medefinternational.fr

90

National U.S. - Arab Chamber of Commerce

The National U.S.-Arab Chamber of Commerce (NUSACC), established nearly 40 years ago, is America’s longest serving organization dedicated to U.S.-Arab business. On a daily basis, NUSACC works closely with leaders throughout the Arab world, as well as high-level decisionmakers in the U.S. business community, public policy research centers (“think tanks”), multilateral institutions, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), media, and the U.S. Government.

With offices in New York, Houston, Los Angeles, and its headquarters in Washington DC, NUSACC covers the nation and is the only entity in the United States with official recognition conferred by the League of Arab States and the General Union of Arab Chambers of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture. NUSACC is in touch with business communities across the United States and serves as the U.S. point of contact for the national chambers of commerce in the 22 Arab nations.

www.nusacc.org

91

PricewaterhouseCoopers

At PricewaterhouseCoopers, we measure our success by yours. Every day our more than 146,000 people in 150 countries go to work to help our clients succeed. From Dublin to Dubai, from Minneapolis to Manila, our job is channeling knowledge and value through our lines of service and 22 industry-specialised practices.

www.pwc.com/me

92

The American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt (AmCham Egypt)

The American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt (AmCham Egypt) was established in 1982 as the 44th American Chamber of Commerce to be established abroad and the first in the Middle East. Today it is one of the largest and most active overseas affiliates of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and has successfully helped in enhancing economic and investment ties between the United States and Egypt.

AmCham’s mission is to promote trade and investment between Egypt and the United States. In order to achieve its mission, AmCham Egypt works on promoting the development of commerce and investment between the United States and Egypt through creating a friendlier business environment, facilitating communication between businessmen; providing a network for sharing business information about Egypt and addressing common problems.

www.amcham.org.eg

93

American Task Force on Palestine - ATFP

The American Task Force on Palestine (ATFP) is a non-partisan organization dedicated to bringing about lasting peace and stability in the Middle East by establishing the state of Palestine alongside Israel.

www.americantaskforce.org

94

The Bethlehem Association

The Bethlehem Association is an NGO that brings together people in North America, and the rest of the world, whose family origin is from the Bethlehem, Beit Sahur and Beit-Jala district of Palestine. Many of its members are 2nd or 3rd generation immigrants; they bring with them a rich Palestinian heritage to their new countries.

Our mission is to strengthen close ties among Bethlehemites living in the United States, Canada, and Latin America and help them maintain Social, Cultural and Commercial ties with their homeland. We also raise funds to help the needy in the community and to provide scholarship grants to deserving students. We welcome you to visit our web pages for news and information on the Association, its activities, its members and upcoming events.

www.bethlehemassoc.org

95

The Carter Center - West Bank & Gaza Field Office

The Role of President Carter and the Carter CenterPresident Carter has been committed to peace in the Middle East since his White House administration in the late 1970s. In the decades following, President Carter and The Carter Center have continued to promote peace and justice in the region and a viable two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. President Carter believes that perhaps the single most important obstacle to a viable two-state solution is the continued expansion of Israeli settlements and outposts in the West Bank, where a seemingly permanent infrastructure has emerged with a grid of settler-only roads, roadblocks, checkpoints, and the giant concrete separation wall. President Carter has challenged university students to visit the region and see the situation for themselves. Several universities, including Emory, Brandeis, Georgia State, and the University of California at Irvine have organized trips.The Carter Center observed the Palestinian presidential elections in 1996 and 2005, and the Palestinian Legislative Council elections 2006 — in which Hamas unexpectedly won a majority — in each instance praising the quality of the electoral process and finding that the elections met international standards. In 2005, The Carter Center opened a field office in Ramallah to monitor the political situation in Israel and the Palestinian territories, focusing on peace efforts, human rights, and electoral developments. The Center’s current activities aim to foster an inclusive democratic society and to advance human rights, accountability, and rule of law. The Center believes that such efforts can be sustainable only if all major sectors on Palestinian society are engaged. The Carter Center plans to stay actively involved in the Palestinian territories through activities designed to further democracy and protect human rights, such as: Support Electoral Administration and Reform, Observe Elections, Foster an Inclusive Democratic Society and Enhancing Civil Society, and Advance Human Rights, Accountability, and Rule of Law.

www.cartercenter.org

96

The Joint Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce

The Joint Arab-Irish Chamber of Commerce [JA-ICC] is a non-profit organisation established under the auspices of the General Union of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture for the Arab Countries. The “General Union” was founded in 1951 with twenty one members representing the national chambers of commerce in twenty one Arab states. The Head Office is located in Beirut and further details are available at www.gucciaac.org.lb

The JA-ICC was established in May 1987 with the objective of “ promoting commercial, industrial, tourist and financial relations between the Arab Countries and the Republic of Ireland”. (There are similar Joint Chambers in 19 other countries eg the U.K., France, Germany, U.S.A., Brazil, China, Russia etc).

www.jaicc.ie

97

The National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations

Founded in 1983, the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations is an American non-profit, non-governmental, educational organization dedicated to improving American knowledge and understanding of the Arab world.

From its offices in Washington, DC, the National Council works with other groups to provide resources and maximize effectiveness. To this end, the National Council convenes meetings of the heads of a dozen U.S.-Arab organizations devoted to discussing strategies for sharing information and resources.

The National Council is not a membership organization. Its supporters are primarily individuals and institutions in the United States and the Arab world who have hosted or participated in one of the National Council’s programs. Their involvement with the National Council often begins with a single event or activity and then, based on that experience, grows into a broader and lasting relationship based on mutual interests and concerns. By following up with participants, facilitators, hosts, sponsors, friends and supporters and constantly reaching out to others the National Council steadily increases the number of people who are informed and involved in the national dialogue on U.S. relations with the Arab world.

www.ncusar.org

98

The Palestinian American Chamberof Commerce – PACC

The Palestinian American Chamber of Commerce (PACC) is a non-profit and membership-based organization that was founded in 1997. PACC aims to serve and support the development of commercial activities and investment between the Palestinian and American business communities. The PACC assists in promoting Palestinian business and professionals to the United States business community, and vice versa.

As a membership driven organization the PACC’s most important asset is its membership base, compromising of the Palestinian companies that wish to reciprocate trade with the United States and American companies doing business in Palestine. The PACC will help its members enhance their companies’ visibility and connections, both in Palestine and the United States.

www.pal-am.com

99

The Portland Trust

The Portland Trust is a private not-for-profit British foundation committed to encouraging peace and stability between Palestinians and Israelis through economic development.

We promote initiatives to develop the private sector in the Palestinian Territory and the Israeli periphery, focusing on financial and physical infrastructure, trade, training and entrepreneurship. The Portland Trust has offices in London, Tel Aviv and Ramallah.

www.portlandtrust.org

100

The U.S.-Bahrain Business Council (USBBC)

The U.S.-Bahrain Business Council (USBBC) was inaugurated on September 14, 2006 at the Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America. The USBBC is the premier international forum where public and private sector stockholders can address bilateral business relations. The Council considers, in depth, the fundamental policy issues affecting U.S. economic relations. This includes advising both U.S. and Bahraini government entities on issues of importance to our respective business communities. The Council also serves as a platform for fostering business to business relationships between American and Bahraini entrepreneurs. The USBBC provides valuable information on all areas related to our members’ interests.

www.usbahrainbusiness.org

101

The US-Arab Chamber of Commerce

US Arab Chamber of Commerce (USACC) in collaboration with US Legalization has developed an innovative new online program to help businesses, forwarders, and exporters to easily create invoices and certificates of origin online and have them certified by the chamber of commerce and the designated embassy.

www.usarab.org

102

The US-Qatar Business Council

The U.S. - Qatar Business Council is a non-profit, private sector organization which provides a forum for discussion of key economic, commercial and other issues of interest to American companies doing or planning to do business in Qatar. The Council also provides information and sponsors events and programs which provide insight into Qatar and its international and business environment. As the only American organization focused on improving commercial relations with Qatar, the Council plays a leading role in expansion of the bilateral relationship. The Council is a membership-based organizations, and its focus lies on providing value-added services to corporate members in the US, Qatar, and around the world.

www.usqbc.org

103

TUGIAD - Young Businessmen Association of Turkey

TUGIAD, the first national and the only international association of the young businessmen of Turkey, was founded in 1986 by our founder and honorary chairman Mr. Jefi Kamhi, in order to produce public interest, provide individual as well as social improvement, contribute to the improvement of the socio economic status of the whole society throughout the country, via improving the leadership qualifications, social responsibilities and fellow feeling of the young businessmen. TUGIAD, setting out with the ideals of young person, young entrepreneur and young Turkey perspective required by the present age, has always claimed, during its existence of 20 years, that the success of Turkey depends on the success of the young generation, and has always represented the young business world with great success, both at home and in foreign countries. TUGIAD, aiming at contributing to the national and international policies of Turkey which is a nominee for the membership of the European Union, is aware of its responsibility to create the “Young Approach”.

www.tugiad.org.tr

104

U.S. Chamber of Commerce

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions. It includes hundreds of associations, thousands of local chambers, and more than 100 American Chambers of Commerce in 91 countries. From its headquarters near the White House, the Chamber maintains a professional staff of more than 300 of the nation’s top policy experts, lobbyists, lawyers, and communicators. The Washington staff is supported by eight regional offices around the country; offices in New York and Brussels; an on-the-ground presence in China; and a network of grassroots business activists. Our members include businesses of all sizes and sectors—from large Fortune 500 companies to home-based, one-person operations. In fact, 96% of our membership encompasses businesses with fewer than 100 employees.

www.uschamber.com

105

U.S.-Arab Economic Forum (USAEF)

The U.S.-Arab Economic Forum strives to bring together corporate leaders and policy makers to create shared opportunities and strengthen U.S.-Arab relations. With a focus on business and economics, our objective is to initiate reciprocal partnerships to promote economic growth and integration, free trade, entrepreneurship, public/private partnerships and a modern, innovative and competitive Middle-Eastern society.

www.usaeforum.org

106

UNDP/ Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People – oPt

UNDP/PAPP was established via a UN General Assembly Resolution (33/147) on 20 December 1978. It called upon the United Nations Development Programme ‘To improve the economic and social conditions of the Palestinian people by identifying their social and economic needs and by establishing concrete projects to that end’. UNDP/PAPP continues to play an important role in supporting socio-economic development in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt). Since the establishment of the Palestinian Authority in 1994, UNDP/PAPP, in partnership with public, private institutions, civil society and donors- has invested over US$700 million (an average of US$50 million a year) in support of the Palestinian people to improve service delivery and accessibility via the development of basic infrastructure; enhance rural and urban productivity and the restoration of livelihoods, develop policies, strategies, and systems to improve the capacity of government institutions and civil society to deliver essential services; provide support for income generation, natural resources and environmental management, good governance, overall poverty reduction and related advisory services; and contribute to the development of flagship reports, most notably the Palestinian Human Development Report, the Palestinian Millennium Development Goals (MDG) report and poverty assessments.

www.undp.ps

107

United Nations World Food Programme – oPt

WFP has been present in oPt since 1991. In response to the deteriorating humanitarian situation as of 2002, WFP has implemented two consecutive Emergency Operations (EMOPs) followed by a Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation (PRRO). The latter started in September 2005 and ended in August 2007, and a new PRRO started in September 2007. The first two-year PRRO had originally sought to assist 480,000 non-refugee food-insecure Palestinians as well as build the capacity of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) counterparts to manage food aid programmes.

In July 2006, WFP expanded its operation to support 665,000 beneficiaries. An emergency needs assessment confirmed that there was a need to activate the WFP contingency plan to respond to the increased needs monitored since January 2006. This situation was due to loss of household incomes from agriculture, fishing and poultry industries, coupled with the limited payment of PNA employees’ salaries and increased prices of basic commodities. In light of the difficulties faced by PNA, strengthening existing partnerships related to programme implementation became the priority as opposed to more formal capacity-building.

www.wfp.org

108

United Nations Population Fund - Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People

*UNFPA … More than 20 Years serving the Palestinian People *For more than twenty years of its work in the OPT, UNFPA contributed to the development of reproductive health strategies, upgraded the provision of services, contributed to building an information system, and helped to build the capacity of Palestinian Authority institutions and civil society. Another cornerstone of UNFPA’s work in OPT centres on better targeting its programmes to meet the emergency needs, while not overlooking congruence with the developmental plans and frameworks.

UNFPA defines its role in effectively contributing to the collective developmental efforts in the OPT. It also calls upon all of its partners to increase their efforts in supporting the Palestinians and helping them regain hope, improve their life conditions, meet their needs and achieve their aspirations to build a better future for all.

*UNFPA’s Response to the Crisis: building on achievements*UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund is committed to alleviating the dire and adverse health conditions in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) in coordination with the international donor community and in collaboration with the Palestinians within the framework of international humanitarian law and human rights conventions. Another cornerstone of UNFPA’s work in Palestine centres on better targeting its programmes to meet the emergency needs, while not overlooking congruence with the developmental plans (national plans/PRDP) and frameworks (the Millennium Development Goals, the International Conference on Population and Development – Plan of Action) to ensure sustainability. Each project addresses a specific priority as identified and agreed upon by the national counterparts, the UN and International agencies in the consolidated appeal (CA) for 2008.

Following are some highlights on UNFPA`s projects for 2008 CA. For more information on the projects please visit our website at

www.unfpa.ps

109

United Palestinian Appeal, Inc.

Established in 1978, United Palestinian Appeal, Inc. (UPA) is dedicated to providing aid to Palestinians in need, especially children, in the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon. UPA provides both emergency humanitarian relief and funding for long-term economic and social development programs.

We strive to deliver efficient charitable services at low overhead costs in the areas of education, health care, child sponsorship, and agricultural and community development. UPA maintains its independence and integrity as a strictly humanitarian organization by not accepting funds from political groups or from any source that may attach unacceptable conditions to its contributions.

UPA is a member of the Independent Charities of America and is registered with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) as a private voluntary organization engaged in foreign aid.

www.helpupa.com

110

UNSCO

The United Nations Office of the Special Coordinator (UNSCO) was established in 1994 following the signing of the Oslo Accord. The aim was to enhance the involvement off the United Nations during the transition process and to strengthen UN inter-agency cooperation to respond to the needs of the Palestinian people. In 1999, UNSCO’s mandate was enhanced. It became the Office of the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, as well as the office of the Personal Representative of the UN Secretary-General to the PLO and the Palestinian Authority. The Special Coordinator was charged with boosting UN development assistance in support of the peace process. Since 2002, the Special Coordinator has been the

Secretary-General’s envoy in the Middle East Quartet. The integration of UN work was further strengthened in 2006, when a Deputy Special Coordinator, Humanitarian and Resident Coordinator was appointed to lead the UN Country Team, comprising 21 UN organizations providing humanitarian and development assistance to Palestinians. More information about UNSCO can be found here:

www.unsco.org

111

US- Palestinian Public Private Partnership

The U.S.-Palestinian Partnership was created by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to facilitate progress toward a two-state solution, wherein Israel and Palestine live side by side in peace, security, and prosperity. The Partnership will promote economic opportunity for the Palestinian people and help prepare Palestinian youth for the responsibilities of citizenship and good governance.

112

US UAE Business Council

The US-UAE Business Council is committed to advancing the longstanding and valuable commercial relationship between the two countries. The Council, which was formally established in May 2007, monitors and advocates policies and initiatives of critical importance to bilateral business, provides ongoing updates on the business climate in both countries, and develops strategic relationships between U.S. and UAE business and government officials. By leveraging its extensive networks in the U.S. and in the region, the US-UAE Business Council provides unparalleled access to senior decision makers in business and government with an aim to deepen bilateral trade and investment.

www.usuaebusiness.org

113

WHO - West Bank & Gaza Office

www.emro.who.int/palestine

114

World Bank Group

The World Bank is a vital source of financial and technical assistance to developing countries around the world. We are not a bank in the common sense. We are made up of two unique development institutions owned by 185 member countries—the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA).

Each institution plays a different but supportive role in our mission of global poverty reduction and the improvement of living standards. The IBRD focuses on middle income and creditworthy poor countries, while IDA focuses on the poorest countries in the world. Together we provide low-interest loans, interest-free credit and grants to developing countries for education, health, infrastructure, communications and many other purposes.

www.worldbank.org

115

World Economic Forum

The World Economic Forum is an independent, international organization incorporated as a Swiss not-for-profit foundation.

We are striving towards a world-class corporate governance system where values are as important a basis as rules. Our motto is ‘entrepreneurship in the global public interest’. We believe that economic progress without social development is not sustainable, while social development without economic progress is not feasible. Our vision for the World Economic Forum is threefold. It aims to be: the foremost organization which builds and energizes leading global communities; the creative force shaping global, regional and industry strategies; the catalyst of choice for its communities when undertaking global initiatives to improve the state the world.

www.weforum.org

Name and Profile of all non-profit supporting organizations printed in the language provided to PIC-Palestine by these supporters and arranged in Alphabetical order

Supported by: