Employers’ organization strengthens entrepreneurship and self-employment in Armenia

YEREVAN (ILO News) - The Republican Union of Employers of Armenia (RUEA), with the support of the International Labour Organization (ILO), successfully concluded a capacity-building programme aimed at developing training services for entrepreneurs and enhancing the capacities of its members.

Through the initiative, the RUEA delivered intensive training to about 70 potential entrepreneurs, including refugees and displaced persons, helping them acquire essential business and financial skills, prepare business plans, and explore opportunities for self-employment. Follow-up mentorship and consultancy will continue to support participants in implementing their business ideas, contributing to inclusive economic growth and resilience.

© The Republican Union of Employers of Armenia

© The Republican Union of Employers of Armenia

At the same time, 30 representatives of RUEA member organizations completed training to strengthen their business management capacities. The programme covered strategic planning, financial management and the integration of digital and innovative tools into business processes. This forward-looking approach reflects the RUEA’s growing role as a service-oriented, member-driven organisation and aims to improve competitiveness and adaptability.

In her address to the closing conference on 12 September, Beate Andrees, ILO Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, highlighted the programme’s contribution to creating decent jobs, supporting entrepreneurship and promoting formalization. “This collaboration between Armenian employers’ organizations and the Government is an excellent example of joint action to overcome challenges,” she said. She further highlighted RUEA’s contribution to advancing the economic integration of displaced persons and recognized its strong service-oriented approach.

“The number and quality of business projects presented demonstrate both the potential and determination of participants to overcome obstacles and pursue new opportunities,” said Vladimir Curovic, ILO Senior Specialist on Employers’ Activities at the ILO Office for Eastern Europe and Central Asia. He also stressed the importance of a reciprocal relationship, noting that the RUEA’s strength depends on the continued engagement and support of the entrepreneurs it serves.

In total, 100 participants successfully completed the programme and received certificates.

The programme was implemented under the ILO RBSA-funded initiative Building the capacity of constituents to pre-empt the informalisation of work and promote the transition to formality in the context of a refugee crisis.