LocationsKidsLand – from adult vision to children's joy
August 5, 2025
Photo: UNDP Moldova
Some businesses are born out of passion, others out of necessity. In Mihail Gavrilenco's case, both reasons were valid. While searching for well-equipped playgrounds for his children, he realized that there were very few options in his hometown. This is how the idea of opening a playroom for children of various ages in Tighina (Bender) came about, offering more choices for entertainment – KidsLand.
Setting up the children's center also required a financial investment. Although he had his own investments, the money was insufficient to finalize all the details. In the fall of 2024, he participated in a competition for entrepreneurs from both banks of the Nistru River and thus obtained not only financial support but also mentoring to launch his business. The support was provided by the European Union through the EU Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP.
"If we hadn't had this funding, we probably wouldn't have opened it, because the investments are quite large. The aid from the European Union allowed us to open a playroom for children," says Mihail.
The children's center consists of a modern playground, a room with interactive games, and a space dedicated to creativity.
"I really like the place, there are lots of interesting rooms. The children go there to play. It's good, and parents can go about their business while their children play. Everything is very beautiful, simply interesting, and for us this place is convenient in terms of location," says Anastasia, who is visiting the playroom for the third time with her daughter.
"We have trampolines, slides, a dry pool with balls, as well as building blocks and coloring books. Children come to play here during the summer holidays. They play, color, do puzzles, and have fun. Parents can leave, so we take care of the children and play with them," explains Sofia, one of the employees at the KidsLand children's center.
The interactive children's playroom in Tighina (Bender) is one of 20 businesses launched or developed with the support of the EU Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP.
Supporting young entrepreneurs and the business environment is part of a broader effort by the European Union and UNDP to build confidence and promote economic development on both banks of the Nistru River. The total value of the support provided for the development of the business environment is over €529,000.
