The project entails financing of up to $1.3 million from: - the Environmental Business Finance Program (EBFP), a GEF funded, IFC managed program; and, - other IFC sources, to Environmental Quality International (EQI) for the implementation of a comprehensive sustainable development program in the Siwa Oasis region. Financing will be in the form of loans and technical assistance grants. The project will primarily address the objectives of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Operational Policies #1 (Arid and Semi-Arid Zone Ecosystems), through four specific initiatives including: sustainable agriculture, eco-tourism, women’s artisanship and renewable energy. The project will directly promote entrepreneurialism and job creation through sustainable measures among Siwa’s indigenous population while helping to maintain the delicate environmental balance of one of Egypt’s most pristine locations. Without immediate intervention, Siwa’s unique ecosystem is in danger of becoming extinct as the population takes on more current and less environmentally friendly methods of living. Founded in 1981, EQI is a Partnership Company, incorporated in Egypt. It has approximately 200 employees and specializes in Environment and Natural Resources, Policy and Governance, and Enterprise Development and Microfinance. EQI has major projects implemented across the Middle East and North Africa; and affiliate companies in both the United States and United Kingdom.