On 3, 4, and 5 June 2026, ASB Georgia, in partnership with SSK, successfully organized a series of Multi-Stakeholder Meetings and Trade Fairs in Batumi, Ozurgeti, and Zugdidi within the framework of the RISE Georgia project.

The events brought together representatives of local and regional authorities, social service providers, employment and business support institutions, civil society organizations, employers, and women beneficiaries to discuss challenges, identify opportunities for collaboration, and strengthen local partnerships aimed at advancing women's economic empowerment.

The meetings provided an important platform for dialogue among key stakeholders, focusing on barriers that continue to limit women's participation in economic life, access to vocational education and employment opportunities, support for women-led businesses, and practical mechanisms for enhancing cooperation between public institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

We were particularly honored by the participation of Lena Koppensteiner, Deputy Head of Mission and Consul of the Austrian Embassy in Tbilisi, who attended the event in Zugdidi. Her presence highlighted Austria's continued commitment to supporting women's empowerment, social inclusion, and sustainable development initiatives in Georgia.

The events also featured valuable contributions from distinguished speakers and experts, including Guranda Gogitidze from the Adjara Women Business Association, Mari Namgaladze, Founder of M PROF Marketing Company, Tamar Oganovi from the Public Defender's Office in the Guria Region, Akaki Koroshinadze, Head of the Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti Regional Service Center of the State Employment Promotion Agency, and Nino Gvagvalia, Founder of the employment platform Restart.

Alongside the stakeholder discussions, the Trade Fairs created meaningful opportunities for networking and collaboration. Women beneficiaries were able to connect directly with employers, business representatives, and support organizations, while also showcasing their products, services, and entrepreneurial initiatives. These exchanges helped open new pathways toward employment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable livelihoods.

The success of these events demonstrates the importance of collective action in addressing economic challenges and creating inclusive opportunities for women. By fostering cooperation among institutions, businesses, and communities, the RISE Georgia project continues to contribute to stronger local economies and greater social inclusion.