Boutique firms

Hey there!

Yes, there are a few, but they mostly focus on development work, less so strategy-level engagements for big businesses. Dalberg is perhaps the most well-know - I know quite a few people there so happy to share a perspective if you're interested. 

Sharing below a list of these firms with a quick description by chatgpt (just so you don't need to google them yourself ;) )

Dalberg: Dalberg is a global development advisory firm that focuses on emerging and frontier markets. They work with governments, foundations, and private sector clients to address complex social and economic challenges in these markets.

CrossBoundary: CrossBoundary is a mission-driven investment firm that provides advisory services and investment solutions in frontier markets. They specialize in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, and renewable energy, helping clients navigate investment opportunities in emerging economies.

Frontier Strategy Group (FSG): FSG is a research and advisory firm that assists companies in entering and expanding their presence in emerging markets. They provide market intelligence, strategic consulting, and operational support tailored to specific industries and countries.

Emerging Markets Consulting (EMC): EMC is a boutique consulting firm that focuses exclusively on emerging markets. They offer services such as market entry strategies, due diligence, and risk assessment, helping clients capitalize on opportunities in developing economies.

Africa Practice: Africa Practice is a consultancy firm specializing in African markets. They help clients across various sectors understand the business landscape, navigate regulatory frameworks, and build effective stakeholder relationships in the continent.

Infomineo: Infomineo is a research and knowledge services provider that focuses on emerging markets, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. They offer customized research and insights to support clients in making informed business decisions in these regions.

Development Partners International (DPI): DPI is an Africa-focused private equity firm that also provides strategic advisory services. They help businesses assess investment opportunities, develop market entry strategies, and optimize operations in African emerging markets 

Sharing here also an article that might help you develop a proper application strategy to target these firms:

• Maximising your chances of getting a consulting job during an economic downturn

Best of luck!

Cristian

Hi there,

Q: I wonder if there are consulting firms that specialize in emerging markets?

As you mentioned, most consulting companies (MBB and Tier 2) are present in emerging markets.

Some additional companies I helped to prepare for are:

• Dalberg
• The Bridgespan Group (Bain spinoff)

Good luck!

Francesco

Hi there,

Indeed, Dalberg is the most famous one but there are many others (e.g. ID Insights, Catalyze, S. Pole etc.), with different focuses (e.g. sustainability vs. financing vs. development etc.)

If you are looking for experience working in emerging markets, it's worth applying to firms/offices within those markets.  MBB and Big4 are increasing their presence signficantly in Africa for example and that's where you can pick up the highest quality of experience.  Bit of a pay cut but worth it in the long-run.

I see a lot of answers here that reference boutique research firms, advisory firms, and thinktanks, but some of them are not de facto consulting firms.

A few true boutique consulting firms that explicitly specialize in growth strategies in emerging markets are:

• Emerton
• SIS International
• FAO Global

A lot of boutiques that specialize in this area don't spend a ton on marketing (which is going to be evident when you start visiting their websites!), but this is because most of their deals are sourced from existing relationships with VCs, PE firms, and other investor-side entities.

Hope this helps!

-Parris

Hi there,

Yes, there are a ton!

The most well known would probably be Dalberg.

Then, of course, most of the big firms have offices and practices that focus in certain regions.

Hi there, 

Dalberg, EMC first come to mind.

Regards, Andi