What is the project about?

The earthquakes of February 6, 2023, described as the disaster of the century has brought about a myriad of challenges for entrepreneurs as well. In regions such as Hatay, Kahramanmaraş, Adıyaman, and Malatya, over half of businesses have suffered severe damage, with more than 90% experiencing negative economic impacts. It is estimated that 220,000 businesses are severely damaged and in need of demolition.

Even two years after the earthquake, the severe effects on social life and livelihoods persist. The UNDP, with generous funding from its donors and collaboration with local actors, has implemented various projects and activities aimed at building sustainable models, particularly focusing on the social and economic recovery of the region. However, additional resources are imperative to establish new structures that can serve as catalysts for the improvement of social life and entrepreneurship in the affected region.

Entrepreneurship and mentorship opportunities for women’s economic resilience aims to establish a vibrant and inclusive environment that supports the advancement of women entrepreneurs, concurrently fostering strong social networks. This overarching objective is motivated by a dedication to breaking down barriers and advocating for gender equality in the entrepreneurial sphere, promoting economic empowerment, and nurturing collaborative relationships among women with a notion of alleviation the childcare burden of women by providing/directing them to the facilities. The Empowering Women Entrepreneurship Project focuses on a single primary outcome: Establishment of the Women's Business Development Centre (KİGEM) in Kahramanmaraş. 

What has been the situation? 

The financial cost of the earthquakes was estimated at US$103.6 billion in the Türkiye Earthquakes Recovery and Reconstruction Assessment (TERRA), a post-disaster needs assessment led by UNDP. This was an early and conservative estimate that accounted only for damages and losses. The costs of reconstruction, particularly if done in the spirit of “build back better,” will be far higher. There are 3.8 million employed persons in the disaster region and the share of regional employment in national employment is 13.3%. Informal employment across the disaster region is around 39%. The damage incurred by the private sector except housing is estimated at 222.4 billion TRY (11.8 billion USD). Further, the total financial burden of the earthquake disaster for the country is 2 trillion TRY (103.6 billion USD), which is equal to 9% of GDP forecast for 2023.

What is our mission? 

Establishment of the Women's Business Development Centre in Kahramanmaraş, shortly named as KİGEM, is set to assist women-owned businesses in navigating challenges and fostering sustainable growth during their critical initial years. Women entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in both bolstering the economy and expediting the recovery of Kahramanmaraş post-earthquakes. Increased women participation in the workforce is anticipated to elevate metrics such as the number of enterprises, employment rates, production outputs, and exports. This collective effort is poised to contribute to the city's social and economic development. The long-term objective is to cultivate "Brand Women Businesses" that leave a lasting impact on the region.

How are we doing this? 

Within the Government of France funded Empowering Women Entrepreneurship Project, the physical and conceptual details, including design, modeling and architectural drawings were defined for the establishment of the center. The small-scale construction and interior decoration work of the center were completed.  All necessary infrastructure and equipment were provided. The center was operationalized in late 2024, and the first cohort of women entrepreneurs initiated their businesses. 

The project is implemented by UNDP in coordination with the Kahramanmaraş Chamber of Industry and Commerce (KMTSO). Capacity building activities will be implemented in coordination with the TOBB Kahramanmaraş Women Entrepreneurs Board as well as in consultation with relevant NGOs at national and local level.

How will Türkiye benefit? 

• Within the scope of the project, a center, KİGEM, was established for women entrepreneurs to benefit from, improve themselves and at the same time offer a common use area:
• A business model and capacity development report for KİGEM will be prepared.
• 14 entrepreneurs were allocated space at the Women's Business Development Center
• 100 women entrepreneurs will benefit from the capacity development activities within the scope of the project.
• These entrepreneurs will have an opportunity for training and consultation services on e-commerce, foreign trade, business development and basic finance, and mentorship will be provided.
• As part of the project, besides training in the physical center online trainings will be to reach potential entrepreneurs in more rural areas. 

Serving as a model for the earthquake-affected region, KİGEM is set to play a key role in increasing the number of women entrepreneurs and strengthening economic resilience for women.