In July 2001, UD and FLAG International, LLC participated in a successful grant proposal with America's Development Foundation (ADF) to implement a Community Revitalization Through Democratic Action (CRDA) program, funded by USAID, from 2001-2005. UD/FLAG is implementing the economic development component as a subcontractor to ADF. UD/FLAG personnel deployed in the Vojvodina region of Serbia are implementing the subcontract on behalf of UD through individual projects and the provision of technical assistance. These principally involve:
- Working with local governments to develop regional and municipal economic development strategies;
- Working with local farm and livestock associations to improve market access and product quality;
- Working with local businesses to generate income and employment for the residents of Vojvodina.
Currently, the ADF/CRDA program is in the midst of implementing its second phase of projects. Economic development is receiving an increasing priority for the program, and it is anticipated that such projects will comprise the bulk of the second phase. It is anticipated that a minimum of 23 economic development projects will be completed by the end of Year One activities. The program currently maintains offices and staff in Novi Sad, Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.
