YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) Extension is proud to announce the launch of seven new businesses in Shirak, Tavush, and Vayots Dzor regions in the months of May and June, 2025. The success of these business undertakings is a direct result of the training, mentoring, and coaching program realized by AUA Extension under the Turpanjian Rural Development Program (TRDP). The owners of these new businesses, Andranik Hovhannisyan, Artyom Grigoryan, Artur Simonyan, Grigor Melkonyan, Lyuba Babayan, Syuzanna Harutyunyan, and Zhora Sargsyan are committed to stimulating the local economy through their hard work.
To date, these new businesses have generated thirteen jobs and are well positioned to create new economic opportunities. Andranik Hovhannisyan in Benjamin, Shirak, with his agroleasing is filling the critical need for agricultural machinery. In Vahramaberd, Shirak, Grigor Melkonyan and Syuzanna Harutyunyan have each created attractive rest zones that showcase the scenic beauty around, while creating four new jobs aimed at pleasing the visitors with tasty traditional foods, sourcing the ingredients from local farmers. Artyom Grigoryan of Haghartsin, Tavush, produces bottled iced coffee for sale to local shops or individually to visitors. Within the framework of TRDP, Artyom was able to create the appropriate infrastructure and acquire the equipment needed for his business. Zhora Sargsyan launched a small B&B in Gosh village, while creating two new jobs and organizing hiking tours for tourists and visitors. In Aghndjadzor, Vayots Dzor, Artur Simonyan turned his passion for craftsmanship into a thriving woodworking business. By employing four villagers and sourcing raw materials directly from locals, Artur is dedicated to strengthening community ties in support of the village economy. In Vayk, Vayots Dzor, Lyuba Babayan opened an exclusive coffee house that offers locals and visitors authentic coffee. Her commitment to excellence in service has turned the café to a favorite local hangout.
These success stories reflect the power of grassroots entrepreneurship and have contributed to revitalizing rural areas. By creating jobs, strengthening local supply chains, and offering excellent service, these individuals are building a more resilient and prosperous future for their communities. These initiatives truly demonstrate how community-based entrepreneurship can foster economic growth, create jobs, and enhance village life. AUA remains committed to supporting rural innovation and empowering individuals to build more sustainable communities in rural Armenia.
The AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program offers training, funding, and mentorship to new and existing businesses in rural communities across Shirak, Tavush and Vayots Dzor provinces of Armenia. To learn more about eligibility and application details, visit the program’s website. Applications are now open for the next round of training.
