ODA grants worth 28.9 million lei to boost job creation in Moldova
Over 68 companies in the Republic of Moldova will benefit from grants worth 28.9 million lei through programs managed by the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA).
Authorities estimate this ODA financing will generate investments exceeding 45 million lei in the national economy.
Out of the total sum, 18 million lei are sourced from the state budget, directly targeting 57 small and medium enterprises (SME development). An additional 11 companies receive grants totaling 10.9 million lei through a joint program of the Government and the World Bank aimed at increasing the competitiveness of local producers.
These 68 beneficiary companies currently sustain 555 jobs. Following the implementation of the funded projects, they commit to creating at least 447 new positions, directly fostering local community development and boosting household incomes.
"The transformation of the Republic of Moldova into a productive, innovative, and competitive economy is not just an economic objective; it is a vision for the entire country," stated Deputy Prime Minister Eugen Osmochescu, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, at an ODA-organized event.
"This is achieved through the courage and perseverance of our entrepreneurs, through coherent policies, smart investments, and, crucially, a genuine partnership between the state and the business environment."
The official added that the authorities' mission is to ensure conditions where "the heart of the national economy – our entrepreneurs – beats strongly," providing young people with real reasons "to believe in their future at home."
In turn, Ulrich Schmitt, the World Bank Group Country Manager for Moldova, underscored the vital importance of a strong private sector.
"A dynamic private sector is essential for job creation, stimulating innovation, and increasing productivity," said the World Bank representative. "Therefore, our support focuses on developing a competitive and predictable environment for small and medium enterprises in Moldova."
ODA Director, Vadim Codreanu, detailed that the institution provides entrepreneurs with a comprehensive ecosystem of support, ranging from non-reimbursable grants to concessional financing. He specifically highlighted the BGK Investment Program, FACEM Impact, and Government Program 373.
"We encourage entrepreneurs to combine these instruments with the Local Supplier Development Program, which offers free consulting and personalized plans for increasing competitiveness," added the ODA director.
Since the beginning of the year, 693 companies have received funding through ODA, totaling 291.6 million lei, with planned investments of over 564 million lei in the economy.
Sources of funding include the state budget, the European Union, the World Bank Group, and the "EU4Moldova: Local Communities" program, implemented with the support of the governments of Germany, Austria, and Poland.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
