One of the main objectives of the project implemented by ECORYS BV Netherlands is to help local authorities in the Eastern Partnership countries to actively promote economic growth and job creation in the regions and to provide technical assistance to key actors in the development of their local development plans. Special attention was paid to the training on "Territorial External Positioning and Marketing", which was conducted by Kai Partale.

The training included theoretical background information, working steps in selecting and approaching potential companies/investors as well as concrete examples of image building and tips on how to create promotional materials. It documented procedures and practices that have proven to be efficient and successful in positioning and marketing by international best practice experience.

There is fierce competition among municipalities for companies, investment projects and skilled workers. The winner will be the business location that not only has the most attractive offer of commercial space, incentives and support, but also does the most customer-oriented and professional work, from image building, investment promotion to investor / company targeting. Based on the objectives of economic development, an adequate image of the business location should be outlined and presented to a national and/or international audience. Accordingly, a selection of industries associated with the positioning of the location was made.

The training promoted the understanding of the participants for a market-oriented and targeted positioning and marketing of local communities in order to promote areas as attractive destinations, places to live and work and to attract investments in the locations.