The EKOS project in Montenegro has successfully enabled the development of business plans for 20 mentees from Rožaje and Nikšić, supporting them on their journey towards economic independence and confidence. Prior to this, the mentees participated in training on cultivating medicinal and aromatic plants, received various seedlings, planting tools, and some even greenhouses. With the support of local mentors, they successfully planted herbs and started their cultivation activities.
The business plans include essential content on marketing, financial planning, and establishing their own businesses, providing mentees with the tools to realize their entrepreneurial ideas and gain better market access. These plans outline sustainable business strategies for the cultivation and processing of medicinal and aromatic plants, tailored to local conditions and market needs.
As entrepreneurs, the EKOS project mentees in Montenegro have numerous opportunities to develop their own businesses, generate income, and contribute to the local economy. The diversity of medicinal plants in Montenegro allows them to create unique products such as teas, spices, natural soaps, essential oils, and cosmetic products. On the local market, they can sell their products at markets, tourist events, wellness centers, and local shops, while on the international market, they can explore collaboration opportunities with traders and engage in online sales.
Additionally, they can develop experiential offers, such as workshops on herb cultivation, natural product creation, or thematic tours, where they introduce visitors to traditional practices, local heritage, and provide a hands-on experience with their produce and products. Building closer connections with customers positively impacts the long-term success of their businesses.
Creating their own brands is crucial for the mentees, enabling them to leverage the potential for higher-value products. The growing tourism sector, with an interest in local, authentic experiences, along with trends in the beauty and wellness industry, which emphasize natural and sustainable products, further expand their business opportunities.
Although the Montenegrin market is still underdeveloped, the EKOS project’s business plans offer mentees improved market access, marketing strategies, financial planning, and effective establishment of their businesses. With the support of government subsidies and local mentors, they can enhance their business models and achieve sustainable success.
Mentees are not only becoming successful entrepreneurs but also ambassadors of sustainable development, contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage, promoting the local economy, and strengthening the role of women in society.
Together, we are building a future where local cultivation becomes a successful entrepreneurial story!
The project EKOS "Education and Economic Empowerment of Vulnerable Groups of Women and Girls in Montenegro " implemented by the Zavod Krog/Institute Circle, NVU Impuls, and NVU Runolist in five participating cities (Nikšić, Berane, Rožaje, Plav, Bijelo Polje), highlights multifaceted approaches to raising awareness and improving the status of women and girls in Montenegro, with financial support by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia within the framework of international development cooperation.
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