Germany and Bangladesh

Available for over a year

Pascale Harter introduces two stories of survival and enterprise from two very different economies. Germany's image as a business superpower has taken some knocks recently, with some well-publicised construction fiascos in prominent places. But near the border with the Czech Republic, Steve Evans finds a place embodying the virutes of German small firms: craftsmanship, persistence, patience and hard work. The musical instrument makers of Markneukirchen might be small family businesses, but they're still world-beaters - and they're not alone. In Dhaka, Rani Singh meets people who've just taken their first steps out of poverty, as part of a scheme to turn beggars into caterers. Tens of thousands of Bangladeshis pour into the capital every year, but can find their lives only get harder. But one NGO has a scheme to capitalise on their energy and talent.