Research into Inclusive Growth
and Market Access
in Emerging Economies
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About Us
Vector & Helm is a UK-registered research practice exploring inclusive growth, innovation ecosystems, and market access dynamics in emerging economies, with particular focus on Sub-Saharan Africa.
We examine how structural, cultural, and systemic factors shape the participation of emerging-market enterprises in global systems. Our work is exploratory and non-commercial, building foundational knowledge that informs future research collaborations, evidence-based programmes, and cross-sector partnerships.
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) make up over 90% of businesses in Africa, yet contribute less than 3% to international trade, reflecting complex barriers that require a deeper understanding.
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Our Research Focus
We are in an early research and development phase, investigating:
Market Access Dynamics
How enterprises navigate global trade environments and the barriers they encounter.
Innovation Ecosystems
The conditions that enable or constrain participation in international value chains.
Institutional and Policy Contexts
How regulatory and governance frameworks influence opportunity.
Inclusive and Sustainable Development
Pathways toward more equitable participation in global systems.
Our research is foundational and inquiry-led, focused on expanding understanding of these interconnected systems.
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Our Approach
Our work is shaped by:
Rigorous Inquiry: grounding research in data, lived experience, and cross-cultural insight.
Collaborative Learning: engaging with researchers, practitioners, and ecosystem actors.
Long-Term Perspective: building knowledge that contributes to more inclusive development over time.
We believe meaningful progress begins with understanding, listening to systems, communities, and contexts before designing interventions.
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Current Phase
Vector & Helm is currently focused on:
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Research design and methodological development
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Literature review and knowledge-building
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Network development with researchers and practitioners
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Foundational inquiry into trade and innovation systems
This early-stage research provides the basis for future collaborations and evidence-driven programmes as new opportunities emerge.​
Our Values
Innovation: embracing new approaches to understanding complex systems.​
Inclusion: centring diverse experiences and perspectives.
Sustainability: supporting pathways that enable long-term, equitable participation.
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Our Vision
Our name reflects our ethos:
Vector signifies direction, momentum, and analytical clarity. Helm represents navigation and thoughtful stewardship through complexity.
We envision a world in which enterprises from emerging economies participate more equitably in global systems. Our research contributes to this vision by generating the insight needed to support more inclusive, sustainable pathways for development.
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