Masterclass | 12-15 May 2025 | MIE2 Geneva
Investment promotion is evolving rapidly. To stay ahead, investment professionals must embrace cutting-edge strategies, digital transformation, and sustainable investment practices.
WAIPA in collaboration with the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) proudly present an exclusive 4-day masterclass program tailored for Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs), Special Economic Zones (SEZs), and economic development leaders.
This masterclass will equip leaders with the skills and insights needed to navigate and influence the global investment landscape effectively. Set against the backdrop of dynamic global market shifts, the program integrates expert-led sessions, practical case studies, and on-site explorations of Swiss innovation hubs to provide a comprehensive understanding of investment strategies, sustainable development, and technological advancements essential for fostering international investments and enhancing collaboration between IPAs and SEZs.
DOWNLOAD the Certification Course Brochure.
Certification Details
Learn from Global Experts:
Gain exclusive insights from industry leaders, policymakers, and top executives in investment promotion.
Engage in a Live Case Challenge:
Apply your learnings in a 90-day real-world assignment to drive measurable impact.
Explore Swiss Innovation and Diplomatic Hubs:
Visit leading institutions such as WTO, UNCTAD, ILO HQ, Meyrin Industrial Zone, and CERN.
Master Digital Transformation:
Leverage AI and technology to enhance investment facilitation and investor engagement.
Expand Your Global Network:
Connect with top professionals and decision-makers shaping the future of FDI and economic development.
Participants will develop practical skills and strategic insights in:
Investment Lifecycle Mastery
Learn about investor targeting, facilitation, and aftercare through 35 real-world case studies.
Global FDI Trends & Advocacy
Understand the latest FDI dynamics and policy frameworks influencing global investments.
Sustainable Investment Strategies
Explore financially viable, environmentally sustainable investment projects.
Digital Transformation & AI in Investment Promotion
Utilize technology-driven solutions to attract and retain investors.
Strategic Investment Zone Development
Gain exposure to the Swiss investment ecosystem and industrial zones.
Day 1: Laying the Foundations
The program begins with a session on transformative leadership, setting the stage for the day’s activities. This is followed by an overview of the collaborative program and a keynote on Prospects for global FDI and value chains – implications for investment promotion and business incubation. This will be followed by a brief on The Free Zones of the Future: future proofing of zones through innovation, sustainability and digitalization. A panel then explores “Integrated Value Chains: IPA and SEZ Strategies for Enhancing Global Value Chains.” Post-lunch, sessions focus on developing a strategy and advocacy & aftercare. The day wraps up with a visit to UNCTAD Headquarters for further interactions and learning.
Day 2: Deep Dive into Investment Facilitation, Aftercare, and Sustainability
Emphasis is placed on integrating sustainability into investment strategies, examining financially viable and environmentally sustainable projects, and exploring green finance mechanisms. Fireside chat with an Investor offers firsthand insights into investor expectations, providing a practical perspective on investment challenges and how IPAs & SEZs can enhance their environments to attract and retain investors through streamlined processes and transparency. The day concludes with visits to Campus Biotech and then to the WTO headquarters to discuss the WTO’s Investment Facilitation for Development (IFD), linking international trade frameworks to sustainable investment practices.
Day 3: Technology, Strategic Insights, and Live Case Application
Day three integrates digital transformation in investment strategies, beginning with discussions on Harnessing Digital Transformation and AI-Driven Investment Facilitation to improve investment processes and outcomes. Attention then turns to Efficient Project Implementation via Digital Tools and Attracting Major Tech Investments, highlighting practical applications for engaging significant technology enterprises. The day progresses to a crucial Live Case Assignment discussion, setting a 90-day challenge that blends theory with actionable insights. It concludes with a reflection and debrief session, capped by a certificate handover that celebrates the application of these strategies in real-world scenarios.
Day 4: Investment & Innovation Exploration Series
The final day provides a comprehensive exploration of how industrial zones and technological hubs intertwine to boost innovation and investment. The day’s activities will showcase environments that exemplify the merging of cutting-edge scientific research with robust industrial practices. Participants will witness firsthand how these sectors drive technological advancements and contribute to economic growth, gaining valuable insights into integrating these strategies into effective investment promotion.
To see all sessions and topics, please download the training brochure.
- Senior Executives & Decision-Makers from Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
- Government Officials & Policymakers involved in FDI attraction and economic development.
- Business Leaders & Investment Strategists looking to optimize their investment facilitation processes.
Location:
Geneva, Switzerland (in-person training)
Dates:
12–15 May 2025
Language:
English
Application deadline:
9 April 2025
Price:
WAIPA & World FZO Members: $2,000
Non-Members: $3,000
Contact:
For any questions, you may kindly get in touch with Mr. Dushyant Thakor at [email protected] and Ms. Serena Uy at [email protected]
Travel, Visa & Accommodation
Participants must cover and arrange their travel between their home country and the course venue as well as lodging, this is not included in the tuition fee. Furthermore, no emergency medical insurance is provided. Participants must ensure that they have a valid passport and appropriate visa for travel to the respective country.
Courses are open to all agencies from around the world, with a reduced registration fee for WAIPA and World FZO members.