Market Linkages Improved or Expanded

Definition: The client improves existing or engages new kinds/additional forwards or backwards market linkages, including through its own integration. Note that forward/ backward refers to upstream/ downstream supply chain linkages rather than commodities contracts. Also note that Note that “improved” refers to those linkages that the client believes will provided an added-value to its market expansion whether this is because of improvements in technology- use or cheaper/faster service delivery. IFIs who wish to gather additional information on the quality of the result reported may use ‘commentary’ to do so.

Rationale: This indicator tracks IFI client’s improvement of existing or acquisition of new kinds of forward or backward market linkages. The client directly uses these linkages to expand market access. Examples of forward linkages include the sale of value added services and goods to other firms, such as for example the supply of fertilizers by manufacturing companies to agricultural firms, or customers, while backward linkages include the purchases of inputs from suppliers and service providers, for example sourcing raw materials for manufacturing or agro-processing among others. These linkages may be developed using licensing agreements, supplier sources, international sourcing/distribution, etc. This indicator varies from 'Business Innovation,' which only aims to track the development of innovative products and services by the client.

Unit: Yes/No, with commentary