YEREVAN, Armenia — The American University of Armenia (AUA) Turpanjian Rural Development Program (TRDP) implements initiatives that have strategic impact on the Armenian economy. Through educational and hands-on training and assistance with business initiatives, TRDP has been successful in growing the incentive for generating new startups or advancing entrepreneurial activity. One such success story is Lyova Harutyunyan’s pumice block production business in Sarigyugh, Tavush, which he modernized and expanded under TRDP in October 2023.
With support from AUA Extension/TRDP, Lyova significantly improved the company’s infrastructure, acquiring modern production equipment and a transportation truck. These improvements have made it possible for the business to realize the production of eight types of pumice blocks, with a daily output of up to 2,000 units, in response to demand which fluctuates according to seasonal conditions. Considering the availability of state-subsidized loans for the construction of homes in border communities, the demand for pumice blocks has been rather high. The principal beneficiaries have included residents of Sarigyugh, Sevkar, Berkaber, Tsaghkavan, and Kirants, where Lyova has gained a sustainable reputation. According to him, he has supplied pumice blocks for the construction of more than 400 homes during 2023-2025.
The expansion of this business has also had a positive impact on generating new jobs and increasing revenues. The statistics show that Lyova has created four permanent jobs, with two additional places in peak construction months. The monthly pay ranges between 200,000 and 400,000 drams, which is considered to be average income for local villagers. Overall, TRDP’s support has enabled Lyova’s business to become a steadfast local contractor in construction, fostering economic activity and job creation.
Another successful case is Mery Antonyan’s business from Sarigyugh. Mery launched her business in September 2023 with assistance from AUA Extension/TRDP. Thanks to the TRDP support, she was able to put in place the required infrastructure and also acquired grain-processing machinery. The facility is strategically situated on the Ijevan–Noyemberyan highway, which provides convenient access for the communities of Acharkut, Sevkar, Berkaber, Tsaghkavan, and Kirants. In addition to producing fodder, the business offers milling service to local farmers, enabling them to process their own crops. Mery’s mill processes 1.5-2.5 tons of grain daily. This service has significantly reduced travel time and transportation costs for villagers, who previously relied on Ijevan and Noyemberyan markets for forage supplies.
Livestock production, particularly cattle breeding and pig farming, are the primary sources of revenue for most Sarigyugh households. With forage and milling services readily available, farmers have the advantage of getting their harvests milled at Mery’s facility. This accessibility has facilitated farming duly contributing the growth of livestock activities. Mery’s business activities have created two full time jobs at a monthly pay of 100,000-150,000 drams.
The AUA Turpanjian Rural Development Program provides 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 in Artsakh and Javakhk (Georgia). The list of eligible communities and eligibility criteria can be found here. The program continues to accept applications for the next round of training.
