More than 50 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) this week gathered to celebrate the successful completion of the Trade Fair Assistance for SMEs in Georgia Program — the culmination of an intensive, skill-building journey led by the Visionest Institute. This milestone marked more than just a graduation; it represented a step forward for Georgia’s growing presence in European markets.
Focusing on key industries such as fashion, children’s apparel, and leather goods, the Program gave Georgian businesses the essential tools, knowledge, and confidence to compete internationally. Participants learned to navigate the complexities of global trade, enhance their product offerings, and tap into valuable new markets.
This initiative was part of a larger effort under the “Inclusive Access to Markets” project — a four-year, €5.16 million collaboration funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in partnership with the Estonian Center for International Development (ESTDEV). With €5 million in EU funding and an additional €162,000 contributed by UNDP, the project aims to empower Georgian SMEs to grow beyond their borders by strengthening value chains and fostering export readiness.
At its heart, the project seeks to build lasting, tangible opportunities that help Georgian enterprises grow and succeed beyond their borders. It supports SMEs in showcasing their products at international trade fairs and business-to-business events, offering both financial and technical assistance to boost their visibility and competitiveness in EU markets. The initiative also focuses on building export capacity through improved lead generation, targeted market positioning, and strategic value chain development.
By identifying and addressing the key constraints that limit international growth, the Program lays the foundation for long-term commercial success. The expected outcomes are ambitious but achievable: increased exports to EU and European countries, and stronger, more competitive value chains that can drive sustainable economic growth in Georgia.
By Team GT
