Bridging Markets
Georgian businesses tap into Estonian expertise with EU and UNDP support.
The European Union and UNDP are supporting Georgian enterprises on their path to European markets. In partnership with the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV), this initiative equips small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to unlock export opportunities and prepare for the European future.
This March, ESTDEV delivered a series of training focused on service exports, including education and training, as well as design and marketing. Led by Estonia’s training and development company, Visionest Institute, the sessions brought together a diverse group of participants, from academic and EdTech programme managers to digital marketing professionals, chief executive officers (CEOs), and business owners.
Through tailored programmes, ‘Creative Services Export’ and ‘Education Elevator’, participants learned how to analyse their business offers, define and communicate unique value propositions, and position themselves competitively in EU markets. The training also provided practical tools for attracting and retaining international clients.
Hands-on exercises covered digital business-to-business (B2B) outreach, social media optimisation, and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance business operations and expand professional networks.
“The European Union remains committed to supporting Georgia’s private sector,” said Mindy Bojkova, Program Officer for Private Sector Development and Trade Facilitation at the Delegation of the European Union to Georgia. “By investing in skills and innovation, we help small and medium-sized entrepreneurs grow, compete, and connect to European markets.”
Giorgi Tsimintia, Project Manager at UNDP, highlighted the growing role of the service sector in Georgia’s economic development.
“Export readiness is not only about markets. It’s about unlocking potential, creating jobs, and driving inclusive growth. With the European Union’s support, UNDP helps turn expertise into opportunity, enabling Georgian businesses to grow beyond borders.”
Anu-Mall Naarits, CEO of Visionest Institute, emphasised the importance of international collaboration.
“The companies we engaged with are innovative, results-driven, and ready to compete globally. Targeted training and international exposure will further strengthen their capacity, resilience, and long-term sustainability. This first experience lays a strong foundation for deeper cooperation between European and Georgian service sectors.”
Up to 50 participants joined the spring 2026 training cycle. Fourteen top-performing graduates, seven from education and training and seven from design and marketing, will continue their educational journey with tailored mentorship support.
In the next two years, the EU and UNDP will expand training and coaching initiatives to unlock export potential and foster sustainable growth for Georgian SMEs.
About the European Union
For more than 30 years, the European Union has built a close partnership with Georgia, supporting its development through knowledge, experience sharing, expertise, innovation, and financial aid. The relationship between the EU and the citizens of Georgia is based on shared values of peace, freedom, democracy, human rights, and inclusive economic growth. Learn more.
Inclusive Access to Markets
With funding from the European Union and in partnership with ESTDEV, UNDP is implementing the ‘Inclusive Access to Markets’ initiative, empowering Georgian SMEs to build their capabilities, enhance value chains, and secure access to the EU and European markets. The four-year project (2023-2027) is funded by the European Union (EUR 5,000,000) and co-funded by UNDP (EUR 162,000).