CSI “Zerkalo” experts have started conducting a baseline assessment of the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Program (EIP), funded by UK Aid with the support of the Government of the United Kingdom. The program promotes inclusive and diversified economic growth and job creation in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
It is worth noting that this program employs innovative approaches to launching and supporting highly competitive enterprises, developing regional brands, and fostering business connections. It brings together startups, micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), business consultants, and investors at both the regional and global levels. Additionally, EIP aims to help young people, women, and socially vulnerable groups seize opportunities for starting their own businesses.
The contract for conducting the program’s baseline assessment was signed in November 2019. The main objectives of the assessment are:
— Defining baseline and control indicators to measure changes during subsequent annual reviews, as well as mid-term and final evaluations.
— Systematically assessing the conditions under which the program is being implemented.
— Providing essential evidence-based data for future programmatic decisions aimed at fostering economic growth in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
The baseline assessment is designed to ensure cost-effectiveness through efficient and rational planning of program activities. Ultimately, this will contribute to the program’s quality and successful implementation.
The data obtained from the study will be used to develop and update the program’s work plan and implementation strategies.
The research will focus on business consultants, startups, and MSMEs, with a particular emphasis on women, youth, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) in specific geographic locations. Data collection will take place in the capitals of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as in other cities and regions of these countries.
As part of the assessment, the following activities are planned:
— 550 surveys,
— 10 focus groups in both countries,
— 15 in-depth interviews in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
As a result of the program’s implementation in both countries, 10 Business and Innovation Development Centers are planned to be established, covering 1,100 small and medium-sized enterprises and startups through incubation and acceleration programs, creating 7,400 jobs, and providing business consulting support to more than 800 companies.
