The programme strengthens competitiveness of Georgian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), facilitate exports, adopt new standards and raise awareness of the DCFTA (free trade agreement with the EU). It benefits local private enterprises with fewer than 250 employees and annual turnover of less than €50 million. Within the framework of the programme, companies receive business advice provided by local consultants or industry-specific expertise provided by international advisers. The programme includes trainings and seminars, advisory assistance in export promotion, and market development activities for interested businesses.

Objectives of the programme include greater SME competitiveness; export facilitation; adoption of new quality standards; raised awareness of the DCFTA; improved access to finance; and increased use and improved quality of local business advisory services.

EBRD SME Finance and Development Group implements more that 70 projects out of which roughly 44 percent are carried outside the capital. One year after completion, the project results are assessed. Results of the last year speak for themselves:
• 84 per cent of clients increase their turnover – with a median increase of 58 per cent – and 72 per cent improve their productivity, as they expand their business
• 66 per cent see significant job creation
• 10 per cent of clients secure external funding to finance their growth