Vrnjačka Banja, 17 April 2024

EU Support Boosts Entrepreneurship and Development in Vrnjačka Banja

Women and young people from economically disadvantaged municipalities are set to embark on new entrepreneurial ventures thanks to significant support from the European Union. With over 360,000 Euros allocated through the EU PRO Plus programme, 45 budding entrepreneurs are now equipped to transform their aspirations into thriving businesses.

At a ceremony in Vrnjačka Banja, Plamena Halacheva, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, and Ivana Đurić from the Ministry of European Integration, awarded grants to the entrepreneurs. Halacheva emphasised the importance of supporting women and youth in business, noting: "When women entrepreneurs prosper, they invest in their communities, enriching the local economy and driving positive change."

Ivana Đurić highlighted the role of these entrepreneurs in local economic development and social responsibility. "The EU's support helps young and women entrepreneurs start and improve their businesses, fostering innovation and community support," she said.

Ksenija Stojanović, one of the new entrepreneurs, expressed her gratitude, stating: "EU support is the wind beneath our wings, helping us support business ideas and community progress."

Halacheva also visited other EU-supported projects in Vrnjačka Banja, including housing solutions for vulnerable families, energy rehabilitation of the municipal building, and ongoing works on the bridge over the river Mala Reka. She noted: "These projects showcase the EU's wide-ranging support to local communities, enhancing the quality of life for Serbian citizens."

"The European Union's support is crucial for implementing important projects in our municipality," added Boban Đurović, the Mayor of Vrnjačka Banja.

Ivana Đurić concluded: "European integration brings concrete benefits like improved infrastructure and quality of life, and our task is to strengthen local capacities for implementing European projects."