Since 2003 mesopartner accompanied the GTZ BDS/LED project in South Africa to train and develop LED experts. This entailed frequent missions to South Africa to conduct capacity building activities and support to pilot projects. Gaps in the existing instruments and methods at the disposal of LED experts were identified, and ’mesopartner together with GTZ developed several methodologies and tools together. Over time a small group of local experts emerged that were contracted not only by GTZ, but also became sought after by other donors, government departments and local municipalities. The services offered to GTZ included advisory services to GTZ and their counterparts, coaching of project staff, knowledge management, product development and training services.