Backing the ideas of 45 visionary women and youth entrepreneurs in Serbia

An impressive grant exceeding 370,000 Euros has been earmarked for these enterprising individuals, primarily aimed at acquiring essential equipment and introducing crucial services to enhance product quality, promote innovation, and strengthen their market positioning.

"The employment of women and young people and their integration into the labour market remains a top priority for both the Government of Serbia and the European Union. Together, we make efforts to promote economic growth and enable people throughout Serbia to have a job and make a good living from their work. These 45 women and youth entrepreneurs, who will engage in diverse sectors such as food production, furniture, textiles, architecture, design, and IT services, will create over 50 new jobs. It is also important that they will be a good example to their fellow citizens on how to venture into entrepreneurial waters and how to apply and receive support for that," emphasised Tanja Miščević, Minister of European Integration.

Emanuele Giaufret, Ambassador of the European Union to Serbia, underlined the EU's objective in supporting individuals with the skills and potential to establish their own businesses. "Our aim is to bolster employment, stimulate local economies, and empower these particular demographic groups, especially in less developed local governments. Small and medium-sized entrepreneurs play a key role in the economies of European Union countries, contributing to economic growth. That's why we support this sector", stated Ambassador Giaufret.

The Public Call, open to unemployed women and young individuals aged 18 to 30, targeted those who intended to establish or had already initiated their businesses in 2022 within the 43 least developed municipalities covered by the EU PRO Plus programme. The programme conducted nine informative sessions during the application phase, with a remarkable turnout of over 170 participants. Out of the 108 project proposals received, 45 were selected for financing after rigorous administrative and technical evaluations, along with field visits. Each approved project will receive support ranging from 5,000 to a maximum of 10,000 Euros.

Beyond economic growth, the supported enterprises will engage in socially responsible activities, offering direct benefits to local communities. Initiatives such as donating products to socially vulnerable groups, supporting sports clubs, health institutions, kindergartens, schools, and environmental protection actions will contribute to the betterment of the localities.