TAVUSH, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) is proud to announce the successful launch of three new businesses in the Tavush region, a significant achievement for the development of Armenia’s border communities. On October 16 and 17, the communities of Sevkar, Berd, and Aygepar celebrated the opening of these businesses, marking a new milestone in the local economy. These initiatives, made possible through AUA Extension’s Turpanjian Rural Development Program (TRDP), will stimulate the regional economy by creating new job opportunities and expanding business networks.
Kristine Simonyan’s new business in Sevkar adds essential production and related services in the community and the surrounding communities. With this venture, the business has created two additional jobs. More importantly, the facility serves as a model in using solar panels to power the facility, clearly aligned with TRDP’s commitment to renewable energy.
In Berd, the opening of Aram Tumanyan’s photo-video studio was an uplifting event for this border town and duly attended by mayor Astghik Hakobyan. Tumanyan, a three-time beneficiary of TRDP, used the program’s support to upgrade his equipment, including purchasing a drone for use in aerial photography and videography. The studio is now the only facility in the area offering such advanced services, covering local business and community events with high-quality media production.
Meanwhile, in the village of Aygepar, Armen Petrosyan established a macaroni production business under the brand name “Hask.” With support from TRDP, Petrosyan was able to procure state-of-the-art packaging equipment and create a professional design for his products. His participation in the TRDP mentoring program has already paid off, as his macaroni products are now available in TRDP-supported retail stores and supermarkets across the Tavush region, increasing the visibility and accessibility of locally produced goods.
The successful launch of these businesses showcases the positive impact of TRDP in fostering entrepreneurship, enhancing local services, and building sustainable livelihoods in Armenia’s border villages. The program’s comprehensive support — from financial aid to technical mentoring — continues to be a vital resource for small business owners seeking to strengthen the economic fabric of rural Armenia.
The AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program, 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 and 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.