Moldovan Women Get EU Grants for Businesses
Women entrepreneurs in the village of Bardar are eligible for European grants to start or develop their businesses.
This initiative is part of a larger €8 million grant provided by the EU, supporting programs implemented by the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA) over a 3-year period.
According to a press release issued by the EU Delegation in Moldova, the Women's Entrepreneurship Support Program will provide grants (non-reimbursable) of up to 200,000 lei for start-up women entrepreneurs. Growing businesses are eligible for up to 600,000 lei.
EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova Jānis Mažeiks emphasised that the European Union's support aims to both increase the participation of women in the business environment and ensure they have access to equal opportunities.
"Encouraging women's entrepreneurial spirit stimulates diversity and innovation, leading to a more dynamic and competitive economy. However, gender gaps still exist, resulting in significant costs. These are missed opportunities for individual businesses and the economy as a whole. For this reason, gender equality and women's economic empowerment are a major political priority for the European Union. It is a cornerstone of the support provided to the Republic of Moldova on its path to a prosperous economy," stated the EU Ambassador to Moldova.
ODA Interim Director Gheorghe Iudin highlighted the program's practical and symbolic value:
"The programs initiated by the Government, with the support of the European Union, represent an opening towards new opportunities for the business environment. In the context of the recent celebration of women, this event becomes symbolic. It brings both the prospect of economic progress and the opportunity to celebrate the contribution of women to the prosperity and diversification of our community. This is an auspicious moment for change and advancement towards a beautiful society," said Gheorghe Iudin.
The Women's Entrepreneurship Support Program is funded by the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova. It is accessible to women entrepreneurs throughout the country.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
