Strategic Plan Yields US $50 Million 

In 1995, Jim Smith, Envirosmith’s President, led a team of US experts and Kazakstani leaders through the creation of a long-range development strategy for Atyrau Oblast (a region about the size of the state of Florida).  The plan enumerated regional priorities for the next 15 years (through Year 2010).  The team presented the plan to national leaders and international financial institutions.

The Atyrau Plan produced a US $10 Million World Bank Pilot Project and an additional US $50 Million loan.  Because of this investment, a major oil consortium decided to build a regional headquarters in the City of Atyrau.  The consortium's investment in Atyrau Oblast exceeds US $ 2 billion.  Without the city's commitment to improve its dilapidated infrastructure, the consortium would have followed the traditional oil company model, putting its housing and offices in a remote cantonment, with independent infrastructure.  Instead, the consortium will build an 8-story, 8,000-square meter office building and separate housing for more than 300 ex-pats in the city, contributing directly to the city's economic growth and well-being.

 Also consistent with the strategic plan, a major pipe manufacturer plans to locate a manufacturing plant in Atyrau.  The plan identified a regional market for the plastic pipe and the availability of skilled labor and natural resources in Atyrau.  Mr. Smith also consulted with the pipe manufacturer, advising them during their decision-making process.

Northern Economics was a major contributor to the Atyrau Success.

Email: jimson@mindspring.com