On the 18th of October, ISET Policy Institute together with its partner organizations: Georgian Farmers’ Association (GFA), Civil Development Agency (CiDA), Export Development Association (EDA), and Association Atinati presented a new project: Food and Agriculture SME Support Initiative (FASSI).

The project's main objective is to strengthen the capacity of Business Support Organisations (BSOs) in the food and agriculture sectors so that they may more effectively assist their members to comply with the new regulations and gain access to the EU market.

As a first step towards achieving this goal, ISET PI carried out a needs assessment among 47 BSOs and 114 enterprises and conducted interviews with state entities. The results showed clearly that BSOs need to gain trust among their member companies and potential members. There is a definite need for clear communication, strong organizational structures, and extensive knowledge of economic matters, including the DCFTA.

Based on the needs assessment, ISET PI together with EDA and GFA will devise and conduct training on food safety, export issues, and organizational development. Furthermore, BSOs will be supported in developing their membership base and creating sustainable mechanisms for communication channels. Besides public campaigning and communication activities, the project will also implement a small grant programme for BSOs to further strengthen their capacities. 

Results of the Needs Assessment

English version: https://goo.gl/A7Eb3n

Georgian Version: https://goo.gl/2AkzqR