Unlocking the Potential of North Macedonia’s Young Entrepreneurs

North Macedonia’s entrepreneurial landscape is flourishing, driven by the support of IESC through its USAID Youth Actively Create Opportunities Activity. The program has become a catalyst for young entrepreneurs seeking to capitalize on high-growth economic sectors. Since 2023, IESC has helped youth launch 42 new enterprises, with 60% of these founded by women.

In partnership with CEED Hub Skopje, IESC has implemented the Investment Readiness Program to equip young entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and networks they need to secure investments from angel investors. Out of seven companies that participated in the program in 2023, four have secured or are in the process of negotiating investments worth a total of 260,000 euros. These funds, along with the expertise gained from the program, have empowered young entrepreneurs to develop and expand their business.

Natali Ristovska, co-founder of YOVA Maison, North Macedonia’s first ethical fashion brand, received mentorship and connected with potential investors through the program. She emphasizes how the real-world experience set the program apart: “Unlike other programs, this one involved working directly with mentors who have their own successful businesses.”

Another success story is Badiala.mk, a mobile app that helps users find discounts at retail stores across North Macedonia. Thanks to the program, Badiala.mk quickly rose to become the #1 app in its category, with more than 10,000 downloads and a growing regional reach.

Thanks to support from the program, the first Macedonian chia drink producer ChiaDia has expanded into new local and regional markets, while herbal supplement producer Long Positive has launched two new products. Meanwhile, SCOOP Artisan Gelato has seen a staggering 40% revenue increase following their participation.

Striving for a holistic and sustainable approach, IESC also partnered with the Employment Service Agency and the Ministry of Social Policy, Demographics, and Youth to promote the government’s Operational Employment Plan 2024. A dedicated social media campaign promoting the government’s programs for youth reached more than 65,000 youth.

The partnership also included a digital marketing training program, funded by a grant to Semos Education. More than 30 participants of the government’s programs attended the training to expand their skills.

After participating in the training, pet hotel founder Martina Pavlovic reframed her approach to business and marketing, increasing her online presence and generating more interest from potential clients. “The Operational Employment Plan was one of the most significant types of support I received. It allowed me to focus on growing my business without constantly worrying about the financial plan,” Martina shared. “After changing my approach to digital marketing, I’ve had more visibility. Even those who already knew about my business were curious about the services I offer here. The result has been a clear increase in demand.”

Fjolla Abdullahi, designer and founder of an invitation design and printing service, initially focused on wedding-related products before taking the training. “The digital marketing training helped me think outside the box,” she said. “I realized that the skills I had could also be applied to designing and printing for corporate events, parties, and other special occasions. As a result, I began creating a new collection focused on New Year’s and Christmas.”

Through its focus on entrepreneurship, digital skills, and innovation, IESC is not only helping young entrepreneurs build and scale businesses but is also contributing to the growth of a more dynamic, resilient economy in North Macedonia. The success stories from the Investment Readiness Program and digital marketing training are just the beginning – these entrepreneurs are poised to drive future economic growth and shape the business landscape for years to come.

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USAID Youth Actively Create Opportunities is a USAID-funded program implemented by IESC. It aims to increase positive youth contributions to society and collective youth leadership across North Macedonia to combat youth unemployment and limited youth civic engagement and spur economic growth across the country.

This story is made possible by the support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this story are the sole responsibility of IESC and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. This story is part of the Youth Actively Create Opportunities Activity, funded by the American people through USAID.