The ARYAF program, launched to empower rural Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Lebanon, has successfully concluded after 22 months of impactful efforts. Through this initiative, 64 SMEs from diverse sectors such as food processing, local hospitality, tourism, the restaurant industry, eco-tourism, and agri-tourism received essential support. These businesses, vital to the rural economy, were equipped with resources to foster sustainability and growth, allowing them to navigate and thrive in challenging times.
Empowering MSMEs: A Path to Growth
Throughout its duration, ARYAF provided vital financial support and a range of services to ensure the success of participating businesses. The program’s €494,000 of in-kind grants and €270,000 of technical assistance were designed to stabilize and expand SMEs, facilitating the creation of new job opportunities and market access. In total, ARYAF was able to generate 195 jobs and enabled businesses to explore 134 new markets.
Beyond financial aid, the program offered export readiness training, networking platforms, and business development support, empowering these SMEs to establish 264 crucial business linkages. These efforts have helped build a strong foundation for their long-term sustainability and expansion.
“ARYAF has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of rural MSMEs in Lebanon by equipping them with the tools needed to thrive in today’s competitive market. We are immensely proud of the program’s impact and the ripple effect it will continue to have.”
Samer Salamany, ARYAF Program Manager at Berytech
Inclusivity was a cornerstone of the ARYAF program, with a particular focus on supporting women- and youth-led enterprises. Through tailored technical assistance and grants, ARYAF encouraged sustainable practices and innovation within rural sectors, contributing to job creations and the growth of local economies.
Celebrating Success in Unexpected Ways
While unforeseen circumstances prevented the closing event from proceeding as planned, the spirit of achievement remained strong. Beneficiaries were fully prepared to showcase their products and services, with many participants prepared to contribute to the event’s preparation. Golden Hands, a program beneficiary, was set to provide catering, while Domain IRIS, Coteaux de Liban, and Cave Bou Hanna would have been sourcing wines for the occasion. Additionally, success stories from Ishtar, Mounit em Dib, and Al Soha Resort were set to inspire attendees by demonstrating the pivotal role ARYAF played in their growth.
Though the event itself did not take place, the remarkable achievements of the program’s beneficiaries continue to stand as a powerful testament to ARYAF’s lasting impact. The program’s success underscores the resilience and innovation of Lebanon’s rural MSME sector, setting the stage for continued growth and prosperity.
About ARYAF
The ARYAF program supports MSMEs in the sectors of food processing, local hospitality, tourism, restaurants, eco-tourism, and agri-tourism across the regions of Bekaa and Mount Lebanon. The program is committed to increasing sales volumes, implementing business continuity plans, and providing tailored training to staff, with a focus on empowering youth, women, and disabled individuals in rural areas.
The ARYAF program is funded by The German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) in partnership with Berytech, within the framework of the project Strengthening Agriculture, Local Communities, and Small and Medium Enterprises (ACE).