TAVUSH, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) is delighted to announce the successful launch of a new business enterprise in the village of Gosh, located in Tavush region. This achievement was made possible through the Turpanjian Rural Development Program (TRDP). In partnership with AUA Extension, TRDP has been instrumental in supporting entrepreneurs, fostering the establishment of new ventures, and creating job opportunities.
Having completed her training with TRDP, Anahit Hovhannisyan has successfully opened a supermarket in Gosh. Situated on a busy road leading to the popular Gosh Monastery complex, the supermarket is the only facility of its kind in the area and will play a pivotal role in serving both local customers and tourists. The supermarket meets all sanitary-hygienic standards and is well equipped, offering a wide array of nutritious foods and essential products.
The Hovhannisyan family is committed to serving the Gosh community through its enterprise by showcasing local producers and their goods. A prime example of TRDP’s efficient network is the cooperation among its beneficiaries. In this case, the Hovhannisyans have reached an agreement to distribute the business cards of Zhirayr Babinyan to supermarket visitors.
The grand opening of the enterprise was a testament to the Hovhannisyans’ commitment to their community. In addition to the TRDP executive team and other beneficiaries, representatives from the Gosh village council, along with fellow residents, were present. In her opening remarks, Anahit Hovhannisyan expressed her profound gratitude for the knowledge and mentorship that facilitated the establishment of her supermarket.
Zorair Kirakosian, TRDP field operations director, and Sos Vardumyan, Tavush team leader, noted that the success of Hovhannisyan’s business endeavor is a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Tavush community, much like previous success stories in other parts of the region. This initiative will not only enhance local economic development, but also foster a stronger sense of community pride and self-sufficiency.
The AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program, in cooperation with AUA Extension, offers education, funding, and consultations to existing and startup businesses in the rural communities of Shirak, Tavush, Vayots Dzor, Gegharkunik, Lori, and Ararat provinces of Armenia, as well as Javakhk (Georgia). Details regarding eligible communities and eligibility criteria can be found here. The program is currently accepting applications for the next round of training.
