UNDP Zambia invites consultants to apply for the Supplier Development Programme Training 2026. Learn how to support MSMEs in mining supply chains and become a certified UNDP consultant.
Overview
The United Nations Development Programme in Zambia has issued a Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for consultants and technical experts to participate in the Supplier Development Programme (SDP) Training 2026.
This initiative aims to strengthen the competitiveness of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) operating within Zambia’s mining supply chains. The training programme will begin in May 2026 and will be delivered in the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces.
Through this programme, UNDP seeks to build a pool of accredited consultants capable of supporting local enterprises, improving supplier capabilities, and increasing market access for MSMEs connected to large mining companies.
About the Supplier Development Programme
The Supplier Development Programme forms part of UNDP’s broader strategy to support private sector development and local economic growth.
Using UNDP’s Supplier Development Methodology, the programme focuses on:
- Strengthening MSME competitiveness
- Enhancing business development services
- Improving access to local and regional markets
- Creating stronger linkages between small suppliers and large buyers
- Promoting enterprise upgrading and innovation
Following the successful completion of the first SDP training cohort in 2025, the programme is now expanding to support new supplier development initiatives in Zambia’s mining sector.
The programme also focuses on supporting Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining operators and Women in Mining suppliers, helping them participate more effectively in mining value chains.
Training Structure
The training programme will run for approximately five months, combining classroom learning, practical field assignments, and virtual mentoring.
Participants will receive hands-on training in supplier development techniques and business advisory practices.
Participants Will Learn How To:
- Apply the six stages of the Supplier Development Programme methodology
- Conduct enterprise diagnostics and supplier capability assessments
- Develop business upgrading strategies for MSMEs
- Work directly with pilot enterprises to strengthen supply chains
- Apply international best practices in supplier development
The programme combines three in-person training sessions with guided fieldwork and online mentoring using a digital learning platform.
Indicative Training Schedule
| Phase | Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Session 1 | In-person training – Copperbelt | May 2026 |
| Session 2 | In-person training – North-Western Province | June 2026 |
| Session 3 | In-person training – Copperbelt | July 2026 |
| Certification | Final assessment and certification | July – August 2026 |
Who Should Apply
The programme is designed for experienced consultants and business development practitioners who support enterprise development and value chains.
Suitable Applicants Include:
- Business development consultants
- Value chain specialists
- Supply chain experts
- Private sector development advisors
- Enterprise development practitioners
Priority Sectors
Applicants with experience in the following sectors are strongly encouraged to apply:
- Mining industry supply chains
- Procurement and supplier management
- Engineering services
- Manufacturing and industrial production
- MSME development programmes
Experience working with enterprises in the Copperbelt or North-Western provinces of Zambia will be considered an advantage.
Certification and Future Opportunities
Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive:
- Supplier Development Programme certification
- Inclusion in the UNDP Zambia Supplier Development Programme Consultant Roster
Being included in this roster allows consultants to be considered for future assignments supporting supplier development initiatives and MSME upgrading programmes.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) before the application deadline.
Selection Process
The selection process will include:
- Review of submitted consultant profiles
- A knowledge test assessing consulting and business competencies
- Virtual interviews with shortlisted candidates
Successful applicants will be notified and invited to participate in the training programme.
Application Deadline
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 23 March 2026 |
| Deadline Time | 12:00 PM |
| Training Start | May 2026 |
| Training Locations | Copperbelt and North-Western Provinces, Zambia |
Applicants are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Why This Programme Matters
The Supplier Development Programme plays an important role in strengthening Zambia’s local economy by supporting the growth of competitive suppliers within the mining sector.
By empowering MSMEs, the programme contributes to:
- Local job creation
- Stronger mining supply chains
- Increased participation of local enterprises in large-scale industries
- Sustainable economic development
Through this initiative, UNDP continues to support enterprise development, local content participation, and inclusive economic growth.
Conclusion
The UNDP Supplier Development Programme Training 2026 provides consultants with a unique opportunity to gain specialized training in supplier development while contributing to the growth of MSMEs in Zambia’s mining sector. Successful participants will join a certified roster of experts supporting enterprise development initiatives across the region.
Professionals with experience in business development, supply chains, or MSME support are encouraged to submit their applications before the 23 March 2026 deadline.
FAQs
Who can apply for the UNDP Supplier Development Programme Training?
The programme is open to consultants, technical experts, and business development professionals with experience supporting MSMEs, supply chains, or private sector development programmes.
How long does the training programme last?
The programme runs for approximately five months, combining in-person sessions, field assignments, and virtual mentoring.
Where will the training take place?
Training sessions will be held in Zambia’s Copperbelt and North-Western provinces.
What happens after completing the training?
Successful participants will receive certification and be included in the UNDP Zambia Supplier Development Programme Consultant Roster.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to submit expressions of interest is 23 March 2026 at 12:00 PM.
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