Includes how major projects are financed and gives examples where relevant. Explains activities of the multilateral development banks in and other aid-funded projects where procurement is open to U.S. bidders.
Last Published: 4/17/2016
The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has financed several studies and projects related to health, education, tourism, and infrastructure.  The World Bank’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) also has funded a number of small social-sector-oriented projects.  Panama became a member of the World Bank's Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency in 1997.  The Panamanian government has pursued financing from International Financial Institutions for a number of infrastructure and social sector investment projects.  Both the IDB and the World Bank maintain offices in Panama.

The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) is an agency of the U.S. Government.  OPIC’s mission is to mobilize & facilitate the participation of U.S. private capital and skills in the economic and social development of less developed countries and areas.
 
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) advances economic development and U.S. commercial interests in developing and middle income countries. The agency funds various forms of technical assistance, early investment analysis, training, orientation visits, and business workshops that support the development of a modern infrastructure and a fair and open trading environment.  USTDA is very active in Panama and has funded a number of renewable energy and infrastructure orientation visits and feasibility studies here.

The Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of International Trade may also have financial resources for U.S. exporters with fewer than 500 employees.  The mission of SBA's Office of International Trade is to enhance the ability of small businesses to compete in the global marketplace; facilitate access to capital to support international trade; ensure that the interests of small business are considered and reflected in trade negotiations; and support and contribute to the U.S. Government's international agenda.
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.