Moldova launches program to boost local SMEs and digitalization
Limited access to financial resources, challenges in entering new markets, lack of specialized expertise, and the need to accelerate the digitization process.
These are just a few of the key challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Republic of Moldova. Today, a program was launched to provide local entrepreneurs with specialized assistance and expertise aimed at strengthening their entrepreneurial skills.
Seventeen years ago, Marian Bunescu founded a company specializing in intellectual property protection. Specifically, small and medium-sized businesses are supported when they face challenges.
"At that time, the main issues were lack of knowledge and information on entrepreneurship basics, including marketing. We believe that the core problems remain the same — access to resources and information," says the entrepreneur.
A survey was also conducted to identify the most pressing issues. Initially, the program will be implemented in the districts of Edineț, Strășeni, Leova, and the municipalities of Soroca and Comrat.
"Access to financing, the sales market, and the shortage of workers are some of the key issues. Some rank them in different orders, but it’s clear that work needs to be done in this area. They know how to produce the product. They can process meat, bake bread, but they don’t know what to do with it afterward," said Serghei Tcacenco, program consultant.
"The biggest challenges are related to personnel. When you don't have the right people to execute projects or move the business forward, it becomes a significant barrier," added Liliana Buza, program consultant.
The SALTO program will support local entrepreneurs by building a network of business consultants, providing access to consultancy services, and strengthening essential entrepreneurial skills for business success.
"It perfectly matches our plan to support entrepreneurs in the Republic of Moldova, focusing on providing consultancy support, promoting your business, and meeting specific requirements, such as those of the European market," said Dumitru Alaiba, Minister of Economic Development and Digitization.
The program is organized with the support of the “EU4Moldova: Local Communities” initiative, funded by the European Union and the governments of Germany, Austria, and Poland.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
