Strengthening businesses, developing digital economies and building relations between entrepreneurs from the European Union and its Eastern partner countries are at the heart of the discussions at the 4th Eastern Partnership (EaP) Business Forum in Estonia on 26-27 October 2017.
The event brings together more than 450 business leaders, politicians and government officials from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine and the EU Member States. It is one of the key side events being held in preparation for the 5th EaP Summit that will take place in Brussels on 24 November 2017.
In Belarus, the EU assists companies with (1) funding, (2) training, and (3) export support to new markets through the EU4Business initiative. Since 2009, 69 million BYN (€30 million) has been provided in total for 322 Belarusian companies.
What kind of EU support is available for Belarusian businesses?
1. More access to finance:
• Loans for women-led businesses
• Micro credits for setting up or developing a small business
2. Stronger business skills:
• Tailored advisory services and technical support to companies– human resources, IT, management structures, business models, etc.
• Training programmes to improve skills of entrepreneurs in key areas
• Tailored training and mentoring for women entrepreneurs
3. Better access to new markets:
• Business advice and training for export-oriented companies
Who has already benefited?
• Belarusian clothing brand “Mark Formelle” received funding from the EU to expand the business. As a result, turnover rose by 87% and exports to neighbouring markets doubled. More.
• “Sushi-Bar Manga” received funding from the EU to develop the first mobile restaurant app in Belarus. As a result, food deliveries have doubled and sales have increased by 30%. More.
• Telematics producer “Mechatronics” received funding from the EU and the EBRD advice to make their business more effective. As a result, the company expanded its market and is now exporting to 42 countries. More.
Do you want to know more?
Find out what is available: www.eu4business.eu/by
EU4Business phone line is now open in Belarus: +375 29 700 86 50
EU4Business programmes are implemented in Belarus by the EBRD, EIB, KfW, the International trade Centre, EUROCHAMBRES, UEAPME, OECD and the World Bank.
EU is helping businesses grow in Belarus. Do you know any local companies that would benefit from EU support? Please share the video and tag them.
