Economic Security Project Semi-Annual Report #12

The report was prepared by Development Alternatives, Inc. for review by the United States Agency for International Development. Business Support Activities focused on strengthening management skills, preparing businesses to export, and expanding sales through trade fairs and trade missions. Trainings were conducted to enhance leadership transition, management adaptation to company growth, and computer-driven resource planning. Technical assistance was provided to prepare businesses for export, including ISO and Halal certification. Trade missions and trade fairs were organized to increase sales and promote exports. Youth Support Activities aimed to promote youth entrepreneurship as an employment strategy. Support was provided to youth offices, including capacity building trainings, trainings for potential and existing youth entrepreneurs, and continued implementation support for the Youth Entrepreneurship Action Plan (YEAP). Development of modern business skills, such as management, sales, and marketing, was also emphasized. Strategic partnerships were established with the State University in Novi Pazar Career Center and international organizations to coordinate youth support activities. Macroeconomic Context analysis revealed a challenging economic environment in Serbia, with high unemployment rates and limited economic growth. Business Support Activities aimed to address these challenges by promoting entrepreneurship and job creation. Key findings from the sales data analysis included a 25% increase in sales among program participants, with the majority of sales generated from domestic markets. Job creation was also significant, with over 500 new jobs created among program participants. Recommendations for future business support activities included expanding into new markets, both domestically and internationally, and increasing support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Technical assistance was also recommended to help businesses prepare for export, including ISO and Halal certification. The report concludes that the Economic Security Project has made significant progress in promoting entrepreneurship and job creation in Serbia. The project's focus on business support and youth entrepreneurship has contributed to improved economic security and reduced poverty rates. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the project's activities and achievements during the reporting period.