FYR Macedonia: employment programme boosts entrepreneurs

Over 30 percent of people in the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia are unemployed, with almost a third of them out of a job for years, and more than 25 percent between the ages of 15 and 29.

Until recently, 30 years-old Ivan Usaovski could only find part-time or seasonal jobs in Skopje, the country’s capital. “You can’t build a career with these kinds of jobs,” he says. “You can’t plan a future.”

To boost employment, the government launched a comprehensive self-employment programme in 2007, with the United Nations development programme’s (UNDP) support. More than 22 million US$ were invested in job creation initiatives tailored for the country’s labour market, with the Government contributing 90 percent of the funds.

The programme provides training and technical assistance for the unemployed and vulnerable, including Roma and survivors of domestic violence. Guidance and support is also provided for would-be entrepreneurs to put their plans into practice and register their company. Successful candidates can apply for a grant of up to 3,000 euros to help cover start-up expenses.

Since its introduction, the initiative has helped over 4000 people find a secure job or establish small businesses, including firms providing legal and accounting services, dental surgery, cafes, and restaurants.

With financial and technical advice from the programme, Ivan was able to open his own take-away pizzeria in 2009. “The idea of becoming my own boss - my own employer - was really attractive,” he says.

The success of Ivan’s business has already made it possible for him to take on an extra employee - who, like Ivan, spent his childhood in foster care.

“The programme helped me help myself,” says Ivan. “Even better, it made it possible for me to help other people too.”