In 2022, FAO and UNFPA jointly started implementing the UN Joint Project “Shared prosperity through cooperation in border regions of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan”. Starting point for the project was the creation of self-help groups (SHG) to improve livelihood opportunities of border communities. In total 32 such groups have been established. In 2023, participating UN organisations will continue supporting these groups by building their capacity and providing support with equipment within the Economic empowerment programme scheduled for March-September, 2023. 

The project aimed at awarding the most promising business initiatives of SHGs with equipment. For this purpose, on March 16-17, 2023 a pitch-deck ceremony was organised to identify groups to be supported by the project.

In the ceremony leaders of each SHG  presented their group business plans.  3 initiatives from each community was awarded. Therefore, pitching of business ideas was carried out on community-based.

Sayyora Ergasheva, Andijan region, Marhamat district, Yolamatol MFY: "Behind every professor or scientist is a woman. After special training, I found courage and today I presented my business plan to start my own business."

Dilafruz Sultonova, Kaytmas village, Kosonsoy district: "I considered myself an ordinary village woman. I would say that we are destined to work in these fields in remote areas. But everything changed in the summer after the training. Today we have reached such a level that we are presenting our small business projects on stage with our group. In the future, we want to open a small confectionery factory."