Open Call: Enterprise Development Fund (EDF) – Turkey

Aims

• The EDF aims to enhance the growth and job creation potential of the private sector in these regions.
• The Entrepreneurship Development Fund (EDF) supports economic recovery, facilitates job creation, and contributes to the establishment of sustainable livelihoods by providing financial support to Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) negatively affected by crises. The fund is also used to repair basic economic infrastructure and provide financial support to primary and secondary economic sectors experiencing economic difficulties. This support lays a solid foundation for restarting economic activities, creating new job opportunities, and enabling businesses to take advantage of future investment opportunities.
• The EDF not only supports economic recovery but also aims to reduce unemployment and improve the financial situations of individuals and families in the affected regions. Inclusive business models, environmental sustainability, and community collaboration are also among the fund’s priorities. To this end, strategies such as supporting the employment of marginalized groups and collaborating with environmentally friendly businesses are adopted.

Funding Information

• The maximum grant available for each enterprise is $10,000.
• Grant funds will be disbursed in installments based on the completion of agreed-upon milestones.

Eligibility Criteria

• They are pleased to announce an open call for grant applications, specifically aimed at Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) that fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
  • The applicant MSME must have a workforce ranging from a minimum of two (2) employee to a maximum of fifty (50) employees.
  • The enterprise must be duly registered and actively operating within Gaziantep, Kahramanmaras, Adana, Sanliurfa, Kilis and Hatay.
  • Eligible enterprises must be owned by either a Turkish national or a migrant who is under temporary or international protection in Turkey.
  • Applicants must demonstrate a willingness to officially register any new employees, inclusive of both Turkish nationals and migrants under temporary or international protection.
  • Only direct applications from the companies will be accepted. Applications submitted through third parties will not be considered.
  • They encourage all MSMEs that meet these criteria to apply for this grant opportunity to support and grow their businesses.

Additional Selection Criteria for Applicant Micro Enterprises and Small to Medium Enterprises

• Priority will be accorded to Micro Enterprises and Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) that incorporate one or more of the following aspects:
  • Commitment to social impact, particularly through including diverse groups such as people with disabilities and women, or offering products/services benefiting refugee and host communities.
  • Special consideration will be given to enterprises that introduce innovative business models, particularly those addressing environmental challenges. This includes, but is not limited to, sustainable production methods, recycling initiatives, utilization of renewable energy, and efficient resource management.
  • A readiness and verifiable evidence of initiatives to create employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities and women.
  • A commitment and proof of efforts to provide safe and accessible facilities for both employees and customers, particularly focusing on individuals with disabilities and women.

Required Documents for Application

• When submitting your application, please ensure the following documents are included:
  • Tax Certificate
  • Trade Registry Gazette
  • Chamber Registration Document
  • List of Insured Employment Service
  • Tax Debt Status Letter
  • Letter of SGK Debt Status
  • Corporate Tax Return or Annual Income Tax Return

Submission of Required Documents

• Interested SMEs must submit all the required documents listed above. If specific documents are unavailable, alternative documentation that provides similar information may be accepted at the discretion of the evaluation panel. The panel reserves the right to request additional information, documents, or clarification from any or all applicants as needed.

For more information, visit IOM.