Programs: “From Successful to Novice” Small Business Support Program

The “From Successful to Novice” Small Business Support Program by the “My Step” Foundation aims not only to foster the development of small businesses in Armenia but also to establish a new culture of giving, transforming charity into a sustainable tradition. The Foundation believes that charity should go beyond one-time financial aid—it should empower and create long-term impact.

In today’s fast-paced world, even those with the best intentions often struggle to find time to engage in consistent charitable initiatives. This Program serves as a bridge between established professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs, ensuring that support is purposeful, targeted, and leads to tangible social benefits.

Why Small Business Matters? Small businesses are a driving force behind inclusive economic development, contributing to stable employment opportunities, the formation of a strong middle class, economic resilience, job creation and innovation. Through this Program, small business owners and entrepreneurs will receive financial assistance, business development knowledge, professional training in business planning, marketing, management, and finance

How the Program Works

• Twice a year (spring & autumn), the foundation organizes a charity fundraising event, where 100% of the proceeds go toward supporting the program’s beneficiaries.
• Programs beneficiaries are each time selected from a different target group (e.g. women enterpreneurs, men aged 25-40 etc.)
• Participants undergo a business planning & administration course, designed to strengthen their skills and develop actionable business plans.
• The best business plans are awarded grants, helping winners launch or expand their ventures.

The program is open to existing small business owners, individuals with innovative business ideas, however during the selection process, priority is given to war veterans & their families, people displaced from Artsakh, victims of domestic violence, other socially vulnerable groups. Through this initiative, we aim to empower entrepreneurs, foster self-reliance, and strengthen Armenia’s economy—one business at a time.