Deadline Date: December 21, 2025
The Jinishian Memorial Foundation has launched the 2nd round of applications for the “Syunik Sustainable Economic Development Initiative” program.
Implemented within the framework of the R2D Syunik program, it is co-funded by the European Union and the Austrian Development Cooperation and executed by the Austrian Development Agency as part of the broader “Resilient Syunik Team Europe Initiative.”
The Resilient Syunik Team Europe Initiative is a collaborative effort of the European Union, the European Investment Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and several European countries, including Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, as well as Switzerland. The initiative seeks to drive sustainable socio-economic development in Syunik by expanding economic opportunities and supporting businesses of all sizes.
The program targets startups, early-stage ventures, and existing businesses operating in tourism and hospitality, agricultural product processing, and production. Eligible participants include individuals and businesses based exclusively in the Syunik region. Applicants must be over 18, goal-oriented entrepreneurs with realistic business ideas, committed to turning those ideas into reality. Preference is given to those seeking support to grow or expand their ventures, including integrating sustainability components. Applicants who participated in the 2025 round of the program or are beneficiaries of other related initiatives are not eligible. The program also strongly encourages women, youth, and vulnerable groups—including forcibly displaced people and persons with disabilities—to participate, fostering an inclusive and equitable business environment.
The initiative is structured into three main phases. The first phase focuses on capacity building through hybrid workshops covering business idea development, entrepreneurial innovation, business model creation, financial literacy, digital skills, leadership and communication skills, and sustainable business practices. Participants also receive individual consulting sessions and group coaching, ensuring tailored guidance to develop and refine their business plans.
In the second phase, viable business ideas receive financial and material support. Participants can access funding to start or expand their ventures, as well as professional property and equipment essential for business operations. The program excludes certain movable assets such as cars, construction materials, household appliances, and furniture. Additional financial support may also be accessed through cooperation with local financial institutions and the JFF network.
The final phase provides ongoing technical support to help participants continue growing their businesses. Through JHF’s ongoing programs, participants receive tailored assistance designed to address the specific needs of their ventures, ensuring long-term sustainability and success.
The Syunik Sustainable Economic Development Initiative represents a comprehensive effort to strengthen entrepreneurship, enhance economic resilience, and create sustainable growth opportunities in the region. By combining training, financial support, and ongoing mentorship, the program equips entrepreneurs with the tools and resources needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment.
For more information, visit Jinishian Memorial Foundation.
