Policy Forum on Culture

• The Masrik-1 plant, with a capacity of 62 MWdc (55 MWac) will avoid the emission of over 54,000 tons of CO2 annually and supply electricity to more than 21,400 households in Armenia.
• The project was financed by International Finance Corporation (IFC), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Union, and Ameriabank, and constructed by China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC).
• The generated energy will be distributed through the national grid, under a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Electrical Networks of Armenia CJSC (ENA).

Madrid, Spain, 24^th June May, 2025

Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV), a leading developer of sustainable energy solutions, and part of Jameel Energy, has announced the commissioning of the Masrik-1 photovoltaic plant in Armenia. This 62 MWdc (55 MWac) facility represents a significant step in FRV’s ongoing commitment to fostering the global transition towards clean and sustainable energy sources.

Located on a 130-hectare site, the Masrik-1 plant will avoid the emission of more than 54,000 tons of CO2 annually and will supply electricity to over 21,400 Armenian households. The project not only contributes to the decarbonization of the country’s energy system but also reaffirms FRV’s commitment to global sustainable development.

The plant’s construction was carried out by China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC), working closely with key Ministries and Agencies of the Republic of Armenia. The project has been financed with the support of key financial institutions including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Union, and Ameriabank.

The power purchase agreement (PPA) has been signed with Electrical Networks of Armenia CJSC (ENA), ensuring that the energy produced will be distributed through the national grid, further advancing the region’s transition towards a more sustainable and efficient energy system.

The commissioning of the Masrik-1 plant reinforces our position as leaders in renewable energy and highlights the essential role FRV plays in decarbonizing the global energy sector. Armenia has enormous potential for renewable energy, and we are proud to contribute to its energy development and a more sustainable future.

Tristán Higuero
FRV Chief Business Development Officer

With this latest achievement, FRV continues to expand its international presence, which now includes almost 3 GW renewable energy facilities under operation in countries such as Spain, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Jordan, Mexico, and now Armenia, reaffirming its commitment to driving projects that not only provide clean energy but also create a positive impact in local communities.

Available Languages: English, Romanian, Armenian
Course Duration: 5 hours, self-paced

In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is essential. Our Cybersecurity course will equip you with the knowledge and tools to secure your digital life, whether for personal or professional use.

In this course, you will:

• Understand how to protect your privacy from risks like tracking, data theft and identity theft.
• Learn about digital threats such as malware, phishing and social engineering.
• Apply key defence strategies: prevention, detection and recovery.
• Gain insight into how tools like encryption, hashing and digital signatures work to safeguard your daily digital activities.

By the end of the course, you will create your own personal cyber-safety action plan, helping you to identify your most valuable assets, recognise vulnerabilities and implement solutions tailored to your needs.
Whether you are a beginner or looking to enhance your digital security knowledge, this course is an ideal way to build your cyber confidence.

This course was developed by MinnaLearn, a leading Finnish online learning provider that aims to equip people with the most relevant skills for the modern world. With a commitment to making learning fun, inclusive and scalable, MinnaLearn empowers learners in more than 160 countries.

When Hayk Hambarchyan and his family launched Hrashk Group LLC in 2018, their dream was simple yet ambitious: to build a modern Armenian furniture business that could compete with the best. Just a few years later, the company has not only achieved that vision but far surpassed it — quadrupling its turnover between 2021 and 2025, expanding operations, and setting new standards in quality and sustainability.

“I’ve always believed in creating added value,” says Hayk, an economist by training with a deep interest in smart production systems. “Manufacturing is complex, but strong local industry is essential for a strong country.”

What began as a small family operation has grown into a key player in Armenia’s home furniture, mattress, and bedding market. Today, Hrashk Group combines tradition with innovation, craftsmanship with modern engineering—and does so with a clear eye on the future.

A Digital Leap Sparks Transformation

The turning point came in 2022, when the company secured its first wave of support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) under the EU4Business Initiative. With expert guidance, Hrashk launched its first e-commerce platform, haybed.am, an important milestone in a market still adapting to digital retail.

“I thought it would be time-consuming and bureaucratic,” Hayk admits. “But with the help of the EBRD consultants, everything went surprisingly smoothly.”

The new digital storefront not only simplified online purchases, but also elevated the brand’s visibility and credibility, both domestically and with potential partners abroad.

Building Quality, Brick by Brick

In 2023, the company took another strategic step by obtaining ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 certifications with EU4Business support. These certifications strengthened the company’s commitment to quality manufacturing and environmentally responsible production — two pillars that are now central to Hrashk Group’s identity.

“The consulting helped us build internal systems for managing production quality and waste more effectively,” Hayk says. “It gave us the structure we needed to scale.”

But growth brought complexity. As operations expanded, so did the challenges of managing people, processes, and planning. In response, Hrashk secured further EU-backed assistance to develop a comprehensive business process management system — a crucial step for transitioning from a family-run business into a scalable enterprise.

Going Green, Staying Competitive

In 2024, Hrashk crossed another milestone with the installation of solar panels on its production site, financed through the EU4Business-EBRD Credit Line. For Hayk, it wasn’t just about cutting costs — it was about taking responsibility.

“Switching to solar power was a long-term investment,” he says. “It reduced our electricity bills and pushed us to think more sustainably.”

The company also received financial support for acquiring advanced machinery — equipment that has helped them lower costs, introduce new product lines, and improve productivity. These modern upgrades have allowed Hrashk to maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly sophisticated market.

Across multiple funding cycles — nearly ten distinct EU-supported interventions, including cashbacks — Hrashk Group has seized each opportunity to reinvest in its operations, its people, and its future.

Expanding with Purpose

Today, the company is investing in a new production facility built to international standards, a major step toward increasing output and expanding into new markets.

“After every round of support, we could see improvements almost immediately,” Hayk reflects. “It’s a chain reaction — efficiency rises, quality improves, and the team becomes more motivated.”

But Hayk’s ambitions go beyond just business. A firm believer in peer learning, he now shares his experience with other Armenian SMEs, helping them understand how EU support can unlock new stages of growth.

“We’ve seen first-hand how EU4Business programmes can transform companies. I want others to benefit the way we have.”

A Model for Modern Manufacturing in Armenia

Hrashk Group’s journey — from a family startup to a recognized industrial player — is a powerful example of what’s possible when local vision meets strategic support. With its strong foundation, forward-looking leadership, and continued EU partnership, the company is not just growing — it’s helping to redefine what modern Armenian manufacturing can look like.

From Garage to Global: How EU Support Transformed an Armenian Textile Brand

In 2002, in a modest garage tucked away in a Yerevan neighbourhood, Hovhannes Khoshoyan, his wife GayaneYeganyan and close friend of their family Aram Aghamalyan embarked on a journey that would quietly reshape Armenia’s textile industry. With limited resources but a clear vision, the couple set up a small sewing workshop, determined to build a business rooted in local production, craftsmanship, and empowerment.

Two decades later, that humble workshop has grown into Satenkar LLC — known to consumers under its brand name, Melante — a thriving enterprise employing around 200 people, producing everything from homewear to corporate uniforms, and steadily gaining a foothold in international markets.

“The original idea behind Melante was not just to make clothes,” says founder Hovhannes Khoshoyan. “It was about giving Armenian women stable employment, fostering financial independence, and strengthening our economy by relying on domestic production rather than imports.”

A Family Affair with a Bigger Vision

Melante is still a family-run business at heart. Initial division of labour — Aram focused on sourcing and sales, Hovhannes and Gayane on design and sewing — laid the groundwork for a now fully-fledged textile operation. Over the years, the second generation has joined the business, bringing fresh energy and new skills. Each family member plays a distinct role, united by a shared commitment to quality and community.

Key to the company’s growth has been Anni Avetisyan, a finance professional with a master’s degree in financial management and Saten Khoshoyan as a Business Development Director. They helped professionalise the company’s operations and structure and raise its public profile. Anni and Saten were the initiators of applying for EU support, which helped to accelerate the growth by exporting to EU markets. Additionally, with joint efforts, branded retail stores were opened and championed the “Made in Armenia” label, positioning Melante as a proud representative of local manufacturing excellence.

A Modern Manufacturer with Deep Roots

Today, Melante operates from a renovated, fully equipped production facility where modern machinery meets the skilled hands of seasoned textile artisans. The product range is diverse and continues to grow, by positioning the company as the leader in Jersey-made products from casual and formal wear to baby-clothing, sleepwear, sportswear, and customised corporate clothing. The company also provides white-label and private-label services, as well as embroidery and design solutions.

Despite its growth, Melante remains grounded in its values: care for employees, attention to quality, and a belief in long-term sustainability. Many workers have been with the company for years, and the leadership team views job creation and workforce development as central to its mission.

EU Support at a Pivotal Moment

In 2021, Melante reached a turning point. Through the support of the European Union and the European Investment Bank (EIB), and with Armeconombank as its local partner, the company received 22.3 million Armenian drams in funding, roughly €43,000. This financial injection, part of the EU4Business initiative, arrived at a critical time (after COVID-19) and became a catalyst for a new phase of development.

“That funding gave us the boost we needed,” says Anni Avetisyan. “It allowed us to fast-track goals that would otherwise have taken years to realise.”

The company focused on three strategic pillars. First, it expanded its production capacity by adding new sewing units and upgrading equipment. Second, it accelerated its digital transformation by enhancing online sales systems and strengthening its presence on digital marketplaces. Finally, it boosted its export capabilities by establishing a dedicated export department and developing new strategies for entering international markets.

The impact was immediate. New equipment significantly improved production efficiency, allowing the company to hire an additional 20 workers per production floor. At the same time, investments in digital marketing and e-commerce tools helped increase Melante’s online sales and brand visibility.

Entering New Markets — and Launching New Lines

One of the most ambitious outcomes of the EU support was the launch of a completely new sportswear line, designed to meet growing demand for athleisure. The range includes t-shirts, hoodies, joggers, seamless activewear sets, and sports shorts —diversifying the company’s portfolio and appealing to a broader, younger audience.

“We couldn’t have done it without this support,” Avetisyan acknowledges. “Scaling production, upgrading our digital tools, launching new products — these are major steps for a local manufacturer like us. The funding removed barriers and opened doors.”

Perhaps most importantly, the establishment of an export department allowed Melante to take its first real steps into European markets. While the company had always dreamt of going global, this was the moment when plans became reality.

Tangible Growth, Human Impact

The numbers speak clearly: higher productivity, reduced production costs, and the creation of 40 new jobs, particularly in manufacturing and digital marketing. But Melante’s leadership measures success in more than just metrics.

The company sees its growth as a proof point: that local Armenian businesses, with the right support, can thrive in competitive markets without compromising on values. It also reinforces the company’s original social mission — particularly in providing women with steady, dignified employment opportunities.

“This is just the beginning,” says Avetisyan. “We’re committed to deepening our online presence, improving our product lines, and reaching new markets. We’re growing with purpose.”

From Local Pride to International Promise

Melante’s story, nurtured by family, sustained by craft, and accelerated by EU support, offers a compelling example of how strategic investment can spark transformation. From a garage workshop to a diversified, export-ready manufacturer, the company has stayed true to its Armenian roots while expanding its global reach.

In a region where small and medium-sized enterprises often face structural challenges, Melante stands out — not just for its success, but for what it represents: the potential of local entrepreneurship when met with opportunity.

The deadline for submitting applications is 31/05/2025.

Are you a young graduate interested in international relations? Are you curious to learn more about work of a diplomatic mission and how the EU Delegation represents EU interests and values in Armenia?

We offer:

Traineeships of up to 6 months within the following sections of the EU Delegation to Armenia, starting in July 2025.

• Traineeship in the Political, Press and Information (PPI):

The European Union Delegation to Armenia is offering a paid traineeship in its Political, Press and Information Section (PPI). The Section closely monitors domestic and regional developments, Armenia’s evolving foreign policy and relations with the EU, and the implementation of CEPA, while supporting public diplomacy and strategic communication in a post-conflict and reform-oriented environment.

Main tasks: 

• Draft monthly report and ad hoc reports on request
• Draft meeting minutes and summaries from high-level events, roundtables, and civil society briefings;
• Contribute to political, governance, and economic analysis in English;
• Undertake research and fact-checking on relevant topics, defined by Head of Delegation, Head of PPI Section, Deputy Head of PPI Section, Political Officer and others;
• Assist with the design and implementation of visibility and communication activities;
• Assist with the planning and execution of meetings, conferences, and outreach events, including those focused on EU visibility and public diplomacy;
• (For Armenian applicants): Provide translation and basic interpretation (Eastern Armenian ↔ English);
• Carry out any additional tasks assigned by the Head of Section or mentor, tailored where possible to the trainee’s background and interests.

We look for:

Qualifications or special requirements:

• Young graduates with at least a Bachelor Diploma (or equivalent)
• Very good command of English and Armenian in writing and orally
• Good working knowledge of Russian and/or other EU language would be a strong asset
• Knowledge of the host country and the regional would be a strong asset

• Traineeship in the Cooperation Section (COOP):

The Cooperation section is the biggest section in the EU Delegation to Armenia. It is to be noted that the European Union is the biggest donor in Armenia.

Main tasks: 

• Assist in preparing visibility and communication activities for the section;
• Attend designated meetings and prepare reports and minutes;
• Assist in the design and implementation of Cooperation/development projects in the area of  support to refugees and others if necessary;
• Carry out any other task that are assigned by the Head of Section or the mentor;
• These tasks may be adapted to some extent to also reflect the interests and experiences of the selected trainee.

We look for:

Qualifications or special requirements:

• Young graduates with at least a Master Diploma (or equivalent) in studies related to communication, media, development, humanitarian assistance, climate change or the environment, would be an asset
• Very good command of English and Armenian in writing and orally
• Good working knowledge other EU languages would be an asset
• Knowledge of the host country and the regional would be a strong asset

How to apply?

Candidates must apply to the e-mail address delegation-armenia-recruitment@eeas.europa.eu and send the following documents:

• A detailed standard Europass curriculum vitae (CV) https://europa.eu/europass/en (CVs in other format will not be considered)
• a cover letter describing why you want to participate in a EU traineeship
• and an application form

Please mention in the subject of your e-mail: Funded Traineeship – Acronym of the section you apply for/ Last Name/ First Name (you may only apply to 1 traineeship per delegation, however based on your profile, the delegation could offer you a traineeship in another section).

Important information to read before applying

Before applying you are requested to examine the dedicated website as well as the general eligibility criteria for a paid traineeship (Article 8 of the Decision ADMIN(2017)28 – Paid traineeship).

Each selected trainee will receive a monthly grant to cover living expenses. All costs related to travels, visa, insurance, accommodation must be borne by the trainee. 

Applications from non-eligible candidates will not be considered. After the evaluation of all applications, shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited for an interview. Unsuccessful candidates will be notified by email. In case the selected candidates are not able to present the required documents, their application will be rejected.

The traineeships can only be offered in compliance with the local legislation as well as the legislation of the country of origin. 

Citizens from EU Member states:

• must provide proof that they will be covered against the risk of a pandemic and the costs of repatriation;
• must hold a relevant entrance visa and / or temporary residence permit where applicable, based on the traineeship agreement, the duration of the traineeship, and in compliance with the local legislation.

This article was jointly drafted by the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia and UNHCR Armenia.

When the Government of Armenia made its pledges at the Global Refugee Forums (GRF) in Geneva in 2019 and 2023, it did so with a clear sense of direction: to strengthen national systems, expand refugee inclusion, and ensure that those forced to flee are treated not as outsiders, but as participants in the country’s future.

That ambition — rooted in the spirit of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) — is steadily being translated into reality, with tangible support from the European Union (EU) and UNHCR. As the international community just marked Europe Day, Armenia offers a compelling example of how global frameworks, when paired with genuine partnerships, can shape inclusive and effective refugee responses.

From Global Compact to National Practice

Armenia’s approach has been guided by the GCR’s core principle: that responding to forced displacement is a shared responsibility. In the months following the mass influx of refugees in 2023, Armenia’s national systems — health, education and social protection — were placed under significant strain. Yet, rather than resorting to temporary or parallel structures, the Government chose to integrate refugee needs into existing public services, in line with its pledges at the GRF.

This meant enrolling thousands of refugee children into public schools, ensuring access to primary healthcare, and expanding coverage of cash assistance programmes. It also meant strengthening the legal and institutional framework for asylum and investing in digital tools to improve case management. These were not small undertakings — but they were undertaken with resolve.

The Role of Partnership and Responsibility-Sharing

Throughout this effort, the European Union has played a pivotal role, not only as a donor, but as a strategic partner in advancing shared goals. Since September 2023, EU support for refugees in Armenia has exceeded EUR 67 million. More than a funding figure, this contribution represents a model of solidarity in action.

Working in close coordination with UNHCR and the Government of Armenia, the EU’s support has helped stabilize national services under pressure. Direct budget support, for instance, has enabled the Government to continue paying out social benefits, fund social assistance programmes, and maintain education and health coverage for refugees. Civil society organizations — another cornerstone of the response — have received targeted EU support to promote legal awareness, job readiness, and social inclusion at the community level.

As Ambassador Vassilis Maragos, Head of the EU Delegation to Armenia, notes:

“EU’s support to refugees in Armenia is a clear demonstration of our commitment to shared responsibility towards protection and sustainable solutions for refugees. By working hand-in-hand with the Armenian Government, civil society, and international partners, we strive to turn solidarity into tangible action that uplifts refugee communities.”

These efforts respond directly to the pledges Armenia brought to the GRF. In matching and supporting them, the EU is not simply assisting a partner country, it is helping to operationalize the Compact’s vision of responsibility-sharing. A vision where the weight of crisis does not fall solely on front-line States but is carried together.

A Shared Investment in Inclusion

The results, while still unfolding, are visible. Refugee families have been supported through Government led programmes, underpinned by solidarity from the international community, through both targeted assistance and gradual inclusion in social protection systems. They are receiving steady assistance through national cash support systems, while children who arrived last year now attend public schools alongside their Armenian peers. Community centres offer access to services like legal support and advice, social work, and job training and are being strengthened through collaborative efforts. Local authorities, supported by social workers and civil society actors, are working to bridge gaps and foster trust.

These efforts have been supported through a combination of humanitarian aid, budget support, and civil society-led initiatives. The funding provided by the EU has helped sustain this comprehensive approach — from emergency relief to long-term integration — ensuring that assistance remains both timely and anchored in national systems.

Life for many refugee families in Armenia has begun to stabilize. With access to basic services, livelihoods, and legal protections, many are now navigating their future with greater security and dignity. But the journey towards full inclusion is far from over. Efforts continue to strengthen social protection systems, expand employment opportunities, and address long-term housing needs. Sustained support from international partners remains essential, not only to uphold the progress made so far, but to help Armenia continue delivering on its pledges and ensure that refugee protection remains a shared and lasting commitment.

Looking Ahead

As Europe Day reminds us of the strength found in unity and shared purpose, Armenia’s evolving refugee response stands as a testament to what partnerships can achieve. With continued cooperation between the Government, EU, UNHCR, and partners, the country is steadily moving towards the realization of its GRF pledges.

In a world where forced displacement continues to rise, Armenia’s experience shows that even in the face of complex challenges, when responsibility is shared, and action is collective, solidarity can be transformed into results.

About the Global Compact on Refugees in Armenia.

The Government of Armenia’s response to displacement has been shaped by its active engagement with the Global Compact on Refugees, a voluntary international framework adopted in 2018 to promote more predictable and equitable responses to refugee situations. Since joining the Compact, the Government has made 13 formal pledges — several already fulfilled — ranging from asylum system reform and statelessness prevention to the inclusion of refugees in national education, healthcare, housing, and employment services. Most of these efforts contribute to two of the Compact’s core objectives: easing pressures on host countries and enhancing refugee self-reliance. Supporting this process, the European Union and UNHCR — alongside other international and local partners — have combined emergency assistance with longer-term investments in national systems. This joint support has enabled Armenia to align policy with practice, advancing a refugee response that is both sustainable and nationally owned.

From April 29 to May 1, 2025, the International Trade Centre (ITC), within the framework of the EU-funded “Building Sustainable Apparel and Agribusiness Value Chains in Armenia” project, in collaboration with EBRD’s “Advice for Small Businesses in Armenia” Project, held a workshop aimed at enhancing local expertise on sustainability standards in Armenia’s textile and apparel industry.

The training was led by Regina Taimasova-Bumbaca, an advisor on Sustainability Standards and Value Chains at the ITC. Its primary goal is to boost the global competitiveness of Armenia’s textile and apparel sector through equipping consultants with practical knowledge and tools in the future to support SMEs in the textile sector in aligning with international sustainability standards.

Participants delved into key topics such as sustainability-related regulations in the EU and beyond, due diligence principles, sustainability standards, social audits, and certification schemes. They were also introduced to ITC’s online tools and methodologies designed to support compliance with sustainability standards.

The training included interactive group exercises based on real-life case studies. Additionally, a field visit is organized to Elina LLC, a local company that designs, produces, and sells women’s wear under its own brand, providing a hands-on learning experience to reinforce the training content.

Syunik is a tense border region in southern Armenia, which has witnessed over 100,000 people passing through it from Nagorno-Karabakh after the 2020 war. In this environment of uncertainty, young people often hesitate to stay in the region and invest in long-term projects. However, thanks to the local NGO Impact Hub Syunik, a member of the global Impact Hub network, entrepreneurial spirit is taking root. The regional EU4Dialogue initiative, funded by the EU and implemented by the UNDP, has helped the organisation to equip young minds with the necessary skills, knowledge and resources to launch their own businesses and transform the communities they live in.

When Impact Hub arrived in the region in 2022, the concept of incubation and long-term business development support was largely unfamiliar to local youth. Most local NGOs focused primarily on financial aid, overlooking the importance of skills development and building an entrepreneurial ecosystem. “Unlike many traditional business support initiatives that provide direct funding, we believe in long-term impact through training, mentorship and networking opportunities,” says Raisa Aghabekyan, Impact Hub Syunik Programme Manager. Another major hurdle the NGO found was the limited entrepreneurial mindset among young people. “In our meetings with over 500 young people, only about 6% of them said that they had business ideas, which was critically low.” she recalls. 

Ideas begin to take shape

To address these gaps, Impact Hub Syunik organised five pre-incubation workshops for over 250 young participants, including displaced individuals from Nagorno-Karabakh. These workshops focused on local challenges as entrepreneurial opportunities. “These young people live in remote villages with limited resources. Most of their ideas tend to solve social or environmental issues, which is great,” says Raisa. “However, they often overlook how to make their initiatives financially sustainable. Our role is to guide them in generating ideas that not only benefit their communities but also ensure long-term viability.” The sessions introduced social entrepreneurship, business idea generation and available support mechanisms. Many participants, new to entrepreneurship, left with multiple business ideas and newfound confidence in their potential as change-makers.

The backbone of the Foundation’s initiative lies in its hands-on coaching and mentorship. Silva Mesropyan is one of the four coaches who closely followed the 37 selected participants through the four-month incubation phase. This phase provided comprehensive support, including workshops on business planning, value proposition, resource management and marketing, culminating with the pitching event. Individual coaching sessions and mentoring helped the participants overcome personal challenges and validate their projects.

In July 2024, the final pitching event marked a major milestone for Impact Hub Syunik: 29 participants confidently presented their business models, market fit and impact potential to an independent jury. After a rigorous evaluation, ten winners – including four displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh – were awarded $1,000 each in seed funding to scale their ventures.

“What I find most rewarding is seeing the participants’ confidence grow,” says the coach. “At the beginning, they were hesitant and unsure. By the end, they were pitching ideas with passion and clarity. This transformation is what makes these initiatives so crucial for the future of Syunik.”

Success stories in action

Among the pitching winners is Ashot Baghdasaryan (20) from Karahunj in the Goris Municipality. Together with his friend Levon Asatrian, he turned an environmental concern into a business. “We saw a huge problem with plastic recycling and decided to create a 3D printing studio that recycles plastic bottles received from three Goris restaurants into environmentally friendly printing material,” says Ashot. “At first, it was difficult to convince people, but thanks to the support from Impact Hub Syunik, we built a viable business model. Now, we receive orders from various industries, especially automotive where 3D-printed parts offer a cost-effective alternative to imports.” Today Ashot’s business is growing: the earned money was reinvested into a new 3D printer and other equipment.

For Abgar Abgaryan (38), a displaced entrepreneur from Nagorno-Karabakh, the training programme provided a path to rebuild his life in Syunik. “Back home, we were beekeepers,”  says Abgar. “When we relocated, we had to start from scratch. Thanks to the seed funding, my father and I were able to buy an ‘angle cutter’ machine, essential for manufacturing innovative beehives that largely simplifies beekeeping. Now, demand for our hives is growing,” he says. “Without this support, we might have had to leave Syunik in search of other opportunities.”

Another inspiring story comes from Diana Ghevondyan (25) from Goris. With the $1,000 award from Impact Hub Syunik, she made her family hospitality business in the Harzhis village eco-friendly. “At first, we didn’t know where to start. The coaching sessions helped us to refine our business model and improve our marketing strategy. Winning the grant allowed us to install a solar panel, solving the critical issue of hot water supply for our guests, as the village does not have access to gas,” Diana explains. Today, her wooden guesthouses attract travellers from around the world, including Australia! Listed on Booking.com and Instagram, her business is not only growing but also inspiring others in Syunik to launch their own tourism ventures.

A lasting regional impact

Beyond individual success stories, the NGO fosters a sense of community and collaboration among young entrepreneurs. “It’s not just about the funding,” notes the Programme Manager. “It’s about creating a network of young entrepreneurs who continue to inspire and learn from one another.” As Impact Hub Syunik looks to the future, it remains committed to supporting young entrepreneurs in the region with new projects and funding opportunities.

Border regions like Syunik are particularly vulnerable, making economic empowerment essential to retaining young talent and strengthening communities. “I’m impressed by the remarkable energy and responsibility of Syunik’s young people. The success of their projects inspires us to continue support, helping to harness their full potential for regional development,” concludes Silva Mesropyan.

Music and performances, fashion and crafts, cultural tourism and visuals arts – Armenia’s creative and cultural industries (CCIs) are rich in talent and innovation. Yet creative professionals lack business and financial education, as well as access to funding, with banks rarely offering loans. To address these systemic issues, the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), in partnership with the Creative Armenia Cultural Foundation, in 2022 launched the Katapult Creative Accelerator Programme, with the support of the EU. In just three years, it has empowered over 250 creative entrepreneurs to unlock the sector’s potential.

Individuals, organisations, businesses and institutions across cultural and creative sectors in Armenia are at the core of the Katapult Programme. “We support creative professionals at every step of the process – from idea generation to production, distribution and consumption,” says Anna Gargarian, the Team Leader. “Our Programme is open to everyone who wishes to enhance their business capacities and access funding.”

n the framework of Katapult, AGBU has expanded the scope of Creative Armenia Cultural Foundation’s ‘Artbox’ –а robust support scheme which offers capacity-building and seed funding to creative businesses, artists and cultural institutions. Its tailored courses target participants at various stages of their business development.

Incubating ideas to success

The Incubator course is perfect for early-stage creative businesses and start’ups. Structured training, mentorship, strategic consulting and financial support guide participants through the idea generation process, and assist in market research and business plan development to transform their initial concepts into viable businesses.

This is the case of ToneLab, an alternative music studio, school and concert venue in Yerevan, which springs from the Incubator. Its founder Armen Yedigaryan and his team took part in a three-month business development course to get essential knowledge in finance management, marketing, business strategy and planning. “ArtBox helped us to transform the initial, somewhat romantic idea of ToneLab into a more structured and practical project, guiding us step by step toward its realization,” says Armen. “We truly grasped the importance of the received knowledge in the months following our opening, as we had zero practical experience in business management.”

At the end of the course, Armen – as well as other Incubator alumni – received seed funding for his creative enterprise. It helped to cover part of premises renovation, rent, marketing and additional audio equipment. Now the studio is well equipped and continues working toward its overall goal –support to the full cycle of alternative music production in Armenia. At this stage, ToneLab successfully provides rehearsal space, recording services, concert organisation, instrument lessons and mentorship for young musicians. The production component –live concert filming and content creation for its YouTube channel –is still in development. To support this next step, the team has submitted a proposal to Katapult for additional assistance. Two years after opening, ToneLab’s success has been proved by over 150 concerts organised, featuring more than 20 international bands and artists.

Scaling to rooftop heights

For existing creative businesses ready to scale, the Accelerator course provides an eight-week training with expert mentorship, case studies and detailed business consulting in boosting profitability, market reach and refining financial and marketing strategies. Alumni of the Accelerator course are eligible for grants of up to €30,000 to expand into new markets. Among the beneficiaries is Theatre on the Roof – Armenia’s first alternative theatre. Since its opening in 2016, it has captivated audiences with a unique and immersive five-sense experience of an unforgettable theatrical atmosphere. Here, spectators take in the stunning rooftop views of Yerevan, watch captivating performances and hear live music, touch props and costumes, taste themed drinks and breathe in the aromatic ambiance of wine and scented candles. “Accelerator helped us to reintroduce our theatre to audiences in a new way, improving our brand identity and expanding our repertoire,” says Tatyana Rostomyan, the theatre founder. The support also allowed the theatre to launch an online store, paving the way for its full independence in the digital marketplace, as well as to reach out to new audiences through expert management of its social media pages. “Our vision is to redefine alternative theatre in Armenia, providing a platform for emerging artists and musicians to create, innovate and connect with audiences in meaningful ways. And EU support helps us in that,” Tatyana is convinced.

The Artbox support is not limited to businesses only. Its Entrepreneur course is tailored for individual artists and creators – including musicians, filmmakers, designers, writers, visual artists and performers – seeking to advance their careers. It offers individualised support aimed at developing personal brands and revenue-generating strategies, supporting them with €2,500 micro-grants.

Finally, there is the Hub course, a tailored version of the Incubator, specifically targeting cultural institutions – such as museums or galleries – that seek to launch a commercially viable product. The Hub’s distinct feature is that its participants are not private businesses but rather state institutions in need of an entrepreneurial mindset. Through the 8-12 week learning programme, alumni are guided by mentors, including representatives from world-renowned cultural institutions, and become eligible for grants of up to €50,000.

Bridging talent and technology

Beyond this, the Katapult programme offers Innovation grants to Armenian cultural institutions – both public and private – to modernise their outdated equipment and to train staff for adopting cutting-edge technology. Unlike Artbox, Innovation grant recipients do not have to follow capacity-building courses but simply justify the required technological upgrade to receive up to €50,000 investment.

The Fashion and Garment Chamber NGO (FGC), located in Yerevan, is one of the six Innovation beneficiaries. Thanks to the EU support, it has established and equipped a photo studio at CreLab – a creative centre in Dzoraghbyur (in Kotayk Province). CreLab supports entrepreneurship and social innovation in Armenia’s fashion and creative industries, providing a space for designers, photographers and emerging professionals to collaborate, learn and develop their work. The new professional photography space with high-quality equipment is accessible and affordable for local designers and brands, ideal for creating portfolios, shooting lookbooks and editorial campaigns, creating online shop content and other promotional materials. “Now small fashion brands and fashion students can produce high-quality marketing materials without incurring high costs,” says Elen Manukyan, the FGC co-founder. “In a country where access to professional creative spaces is limited, EU support provides much-needed resources and infrastructure to emerging talents, empowering individuals and strengthening Armenia’s position in the global fashion and creative industries.“

With EU support, AGBU is transforming Armenia’s creative economy. More than 250 creatives across Armenia have been supported, over 60 start-ups incubated, 30 businesses accelerated, and 65 solo artists empowered. Thanks to the Programme, many of them have successfully registered businesses, secured funding and scaled their creative projects, turning ideas into commercially viable ventures. “I hope that the Katapult legacy will bring the important cultural and mental shift to value culture not only for its embeddedness in our heritage and identity, but also for its ability to imagine new futures and seed a knowledge economy,” concludes Anna Gargarian.

Authors: Volha Prokharava, Kristine Hovhannisyan

Are you passionate about European politics and international relations? Would you like to strengthen your skills in negotiation, public speaking, and critical thinking? Are you in the final years of your bachelor’s degree or pursuing a master’s degree?  

If so, don’t miss this opportunity! The Delegation of the European Union to Armenia invites Armenian students in their 3rd or 4th year of a bachelor’s degree or those pursuing a master’s degree with an interest in EU affairs to take part in the Model European Union Simulation Game!  

You will have the chance to experience how the European Council operates, act as heads of EU Member States, and work together to reach a consensus on a key policy issue. 

Selected participants will complete introductory and preparatory lectures to learn more about the EU, its institutions, and decision-making processes. 

– Dates: 14–22 April 2025  
– Location: Yerevan, Armenia  

If you are interested, send your CV and a motivation letter (up to 500 words) to DELEGATION-ARMENIA@eeas.europa.eu with “Model EU Application” as the subject. 

Application deadline: 6 April 2025  

Please note: Submitting an application does not guarantee selection. All applications will be carefully evaluated, and only those who meet the criteria will be invited to participate. 

International Trade Centre (ITC) under the EU-funded project “Building Sustainable Apparel and Agribusiness Value Chains in Armenia” jointly with National Board of Trade Sweden and with the support of the Embassy of Sweeden in Armenia are proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at expanding market opportunities for Armenian agribusinesses in the Swedish and EU markets․

As part of this initiative, Armenian SMEs from the agribusiness sector are participating in the workshop “Your Gateway to Sweden & the EU: Unlocking Opportunities in the Food Market” on March 27-28, 2025.

The event was launched with opening remarks by Mr. Patrik Svensson, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Sweden to Armenia, and Mr. Josip Juric, Program Manager at the Delegation of the European Union to Armenia. Both highlighted the importance of this event, emphasizing that it marks the beginning of a great and impactful initiative.

The workshop, concluding with practical group exercises, provides Armenian businesses with valuable insights into market trends, trade flows, regulatory and buyer requirements, logistics, etc., for entering the Swedish and EU markets.