Joint ventures with other types of Japanese or developing country-based firms is another way to secure access to project tenders. Or a firm can find a project and submit a competitive bid on its own. Whichever route a company chooses will require a comprehensive strategy. U.S. companies must pursue Japan's foreign aid business in the developing countries. Timely and accurate information is most readily available on site in the recipient countries for projects and programs that the government of Japan may be planning to fund.
Early information is critical.
Waiting for official announcements will usually mean being too late. By participating in the initiation of the project, firms get a head start on key areas of the project. Companies should identify the appropriate U.S. or developing country officials and ask if a feasibility study of the project in question has been conducted. These studies can be of great value to U.S. bidders. To obtain OECF funding, a formal request by a developing country government must be based on a feasibility study.