Supporting German enterprises abroad through DEG’s ImpactConnect programme

In 2024, DEG provided a EUR 1.5 million loan under its ImpactConnect programme to enable Klaus Böcker GmbH to modernise and sustainably develop its production site in South Africa. The family-run company produces fruit by-products, such as fruit juices and purees, which it trades internationally. At its location in South Africa it harvests and processes citrus fruits.

The funds will be used to secure working capital, install a photovoltaic system and purchase machinery that is more efficient. This will not only enable modernised production, but also contribute to increasing sustainability of the site: The PV system reduces energy consumption from the grid and fossil fuels by around 50 per cent, thereby significantly cutting CO2 emissions. By using more efficient machines, at least 20 new jobs will be created locally. The company employs around 320 people worldwide.

DEG’s ImpactConnect programme supports and assists mainly German enterprises with smaller investment projects in developing countries and emerging economies. The programme has already facilitated 92 investments worldwide. Since its launch in 2019, more than 20,000 jobs have been created or secured, mainly in African countries, Vietnam, India and Brasil.

“We are pleased to be able to add a new guarantee instrument for trade financing to our Connect programme. Through TradeConnect we close local financing gaps for small-volume export and important transactions in developing and emerging countries,” says Jan Müller, head of German Business.

The two financing programmes implemented by DEG are part of the BMZ’s, German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, “Partners in Transformation” scheme.

ImpactConnect and TradeConnect