Empowering Entrepreneurs: EU-Funded Project Boosts Business Start-Ups in Türkiye

The ENHANCER Project, funded by the EU, has been making significant strides in Türkiye by providing essential support and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs, enabling them to bring their business visions to fruition. Through a comprehensive approach involving training, grants, and guidance, the project has played a pivotal role in transforming the lives of individuals and fostering a culture of innovation and economic empowerment.

One notable success story is that of Hala Mouslem, a Syrian woman residing in Gaziantep, who has delved into the unique realm of date-seed coffee production. Thanks to the training received at the Gaziantep Gastronomy Academy, supported by the Local Support Programmes for Common Use Facilities Grant Scheme under the ENHANCER Project, Hala has successfully carved out a niche in the market and promoted her coffee through social media platforms.

Another inspiring account comes from Diana Arour, an entrepreneur from Gaziantep, who has transitioned from working in a laboratory to pursuing a career in the culinary arts. Following her participation in food training at the Gaziantep Gastronomy Academy, Diana now produces and sells an array of delectable treats via social media, showcasing the diverse range of talents nurtured under the ENHANCER Project.

These success stories not only underscore the impact of the project on individuals, but also highlight the broader benefits that extend to local communities. Gül Yavuz, a beneficiary of the entrepreneurship and food training provided by the project, has applied her newly acquired skills to produce and sell gluten-free food, thus contributing to the diversity of the local culinary landscape.

In Şanlıurfa, the ENHANCER Project has collaborated with the local Entrepreneurship and Incubation Centre, providing training in sewing and shoemaking, which has led to an influx of innovative business ideas and products. İlham Müslüm, a Syrian resident, has fully engaged in the project, combining training in sewing, computer skills, and entrepreneurship to effectively market his products and generate income.

The impact of these initiatives has not gone unnoticed by international observers, with Ambassador Nikolaus Meyer-Landrut of the European Union Delegation to Türkiye emphasizing the importance of supporting entrepreneurs in improving livelihoods and living standards. The ENHANCER programme has successfully disbursed a total of €35 million, benefitting a wide array of projects and regions across Türkiye.

A crucial aspect of the project lies in the establishment of a robust and comprehensive support system, offering training on a wide range of topics, including e-commerce, funding sources, law, health, and finances, contributing to the holistic development of budding entrepreneurs.

As the project continues to expand and evolve, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship, leading to a more vibrant and dynamic economic landscape in Türkiye. With the unwavering support of the EU and the dedication of local beneficiaries, the ENHANCER Project is propelling Türkiye towards a future teeming with innovation and opportunity.