Project Preparation, Analysis, Feasibility, and Financing

Overview

The key to profitable and sustainable development is the selection of viable projects, and effective project preparation and financing has become even more critical in recent years. To that end, this seminar focuses on providing the knowledge and skills required to develop an idea into a bankable project ready for financing and implementation. Through lectures, case studies, and individual and group exercises, participants will have the opportunity to experience what makes projects successful.

Participants are encouraged to bring an example of a project that they can relate to the seminar for discussion.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the seminar, each participant will be awarded a Certificate of Completion. Successful completion requires that a participant diligently attend all seminar sessions promptly and on time throughout the seminar, read all assignments, and participate in all group discussions and exercises. If a number of sessions are missed without proper reason, the ILI reserves the right to withhold certification.

Format

This seminar is currently offered in-person. Special requests to attend online must be submitted by email as early as possible. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the overall experience of each participant and the larger group. In-person seminars, even when being joined online, run from 9:30 am – 4:00 pm Washington, D.C., time.

Course Outline

Project Identification and Preparation

• Meaning & requirements

Project Development Context

• Why this project?
• Investment programming in the public sector
• Project approach to investment
• Economic viability vs. commercial viability

Assessing Project Viability

• Technical, economic and financial analysis
• Fiscal impact
• Cost recovery
• Operations and maintenance

Financing and Approval

External Assistance and Multilateral Development Agencies

Sustainability and Lessons Learned

• Risk analysis
• Institutional aspects
• Environmental considerations

Course Advisors

Dr. Hans-Martin Boehmer is an Adjunct Professor at both Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs and the Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy, as well as a Senior Fellow at the Duke Center for International Development. Hans has worked in international finance and development for over twenty years, holding positions in private sector, government, and international organizations. At the World Bank Group, he held positions in operations, finance, and corporate strategy. He was Senior Manager in the World Bank Group’s Independent Evaluation Group where he led initiatives to strengthen capacity development in evaluation and results monitoring. From 2006 – 2008, he was seconded to the UK Department for International Development to lead the policy work in the areas of education, health, and neglected diseases. Dr. Boehmer holds a Ph.D. with Distinction in Economics from Georgetown University and an undergraduate degree in Economics from the University of Bonn.