The project was an extension of the activities carried out a year earlier together with local communities in the province of Lorri, bordering Georgia. In 2023, the focus was on creating small local businesses that are socially responsible. Six municipalities took part in the project: three of them participated in the activities a year earlier – Debet, Dsegh, Vahagni and have already implemented their first projects – and three new ones: Chkalov, Karinj and Dzoragyugh, which benefited from the experience of the first three. 

The methodology of working with Armenian partners was based on the experience of the FSM in working with local communities in Georgia (participatory budgeting) and Moldova (LEADER approach).  A series of workshops – on communication, management, acquisition of grants, as well as their implementation – prepared the participants to participate in the grant competition. 

During an entrepreneurship workshop in the village of Debet, June 2024. Photo: Liana Yesaya, Eurasia CPO

The competition jury awarded mini-grants to four initiatives – for the launch of a souvenir shop for tourists, the opening of drying room and herbal tea room, the development of a local guesthouse and the development of duck breeding. The implementation of these grants helped to activate residents and improve the quality of life in municipalities. In November 2023, a presentation of the implemented projects was held in Debet for all participants, implementing organisations, local authorities and non-governmental organisations.  

Products for tourists offered in the souvenir shop opened in the village of Debet. Photo: Liana Yesayan, Eurasia CPO

Products for tourists offered in the souvenir shop opened in the village of Debet. Photo: Liana Yesayan, Eurasia CPO

The opening of drying room and herbal tea room n the village of Dysech. Photo: Sonya Kolikyan, Eurasia CPO

Children’s playground at the guesthouse for tourists in the village of Dysech. Photo: Sonya Kolikian, Eurasia CPO

The project contributed to the achievement of the 16th Sustainable Development Goal

 
Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels

Project co-financed within the framework of the Polish development cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland.