The Bridges “Incubation and Small Grant” Program, carried out by INGEV at the Business Development Center in Şanlıurfa, provides new opportunities for entrepreneurs, helping them achieve success. The program has been offering basic and advanced entrepreneurship training to aspiring entrepreneurs for five years, and as of 2024, 211 people have received Basic Entrepreneurship Training. Of these, 126 completed the Advanced Entrepreneurship Training. By the end of the year, 325 people are expected to complete Basic and 190 people Advanced Entrepreneurship Training.
This program does not simply offer training; it transforms the lives of entrepreneurs. For example, 100 entrepreneurs who completed Advanced Entrepreneurship Training received partial grants to help cover their startup expenses, giving them a strong start.
One inspiring success story is Enver, who came to Turkiye from Syria in 2013 with 25 years of experience in painting and decoration but was unable to work due to a lack of tools and equipment. With the support of the Bridges program by INGEV and DRC, he received business management training and the necessary equipment, enabling him to establish his small business. Today, he is one of the most renowned decorators in Şanlıurfa Siverek, and his work is widely admired.
This project, carried out in partnership with INGEV and DRC, provides crucial support to entrepreneurs not only at the startup stage but also during the critical early phase of their businesses with consulting in accounting, marketing, taxation, and legal matters. By connecting local suppliers and new entrepreneurs, the program continues to transform the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Şanlıurfa.
The Business Development Services within the Bridges IV Project are implemented by INGEV and DRC and are funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through the German Development Bank (KfW).