Project Region: Western Balkans
Location in Albania: Municipalities of Tirana and Berat, with additional community-based activities in Mallakastra, Kuçova, and Cërrik.
Implementation period: 7 March 2023 – 28 February 2025
Funding: German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO), Municipalities of Berat and Tirana
Total budget: €4,497,324.5
Budget for Albania: €522,465
The SOE-10 project aimed to foster economic inclusion and empowerment in Albania, particularly targeting vulnerable groups such as unemployed youth and women, small businesses, micro-farmers, and agribusinesses. The initiative was implemented across the municipalities of Tirana and Berat, with additional community-based activities in Mallakastra, Kuçova, and Cërrik. The project successfully contributed to job creation, business growth, and access to vocational training and economic opportunities.
The main target group were small farms and businesses who need investment and business skills to help improve productivity and income. Another target group were unemployed women and youth who need support to enter the labour market. The final target group were vulnerable groups in undeveloped areas who need support to access local public services and initiatives which would improve the quality of their lives.
Key results:
- Economic Growth Grants: 153 micro-businesses and farmers received Green Growth Grants, with 52 women beneficiaries.
- Business Training: 166 individuals attended business training, including 33 women and 41 youth.
- Vocational Training: 44 individuals completed vocational training programs, with a focus on unemployed youth and women.
- Community Initiatives: Four community-based initiatives were successfully implemented, benefiting a total of 533 community members across Mallakastra, Kuçova, Tirana (Berzhitë), and Cërrik.
