How to Apply for a £10,000 Grant: Info Sessions for Women Entrepreneurs Held Across Serbia
Women entrepreneurs across Serbia had the opportunity to learn more about the ongoing grant competition offering £10,000 per business through the “Small and Powerful” project. The initiative is implemented by NALED with the support of the British Embassy, with a total grant fund of £50,000.
During four info sessions in Trstenik, Ćićevac, Sjenica and Tutin, participants were introduced to the application process, eligibility criteria, and types of activities that the grants can support – ranging from equipment purchase and the introduction of new products and services, to digitalization, certification and marketing campaigns. Particular emphasis was placed on the requirement of at least 10% co-financing, ensuring the sustainability and long-term development of business ideas, as well as the obligation for women applicants to be majority owners of their businesses (minimum 51%). The first sessions took place on August 26 in Trstenik and Ćićevac, followed by sessions on September 11 in Sjenica and Tutin.
“Our goal is to provide women leading small businesses with resources and support to strengthen their position, develop their ideas, and contribute to building a more inclusive economy,” said NALED Executive Director Violeta Jovanović.
The events also served as a platform to discuss ways of improving the local business environment together with municipal presidents – Milena Turk (Trstenik), Mirjana Krkić (Ćićevac), Mersija Camović Rebronja (Sjenica) and Selma Kučević (Tutin). The info days further enabled networking among local entrepreneurs and the exchange of experiences on the challenges and priorities of doing business in smaller communities. Participants agreed that financial support, mentoring and training programs, as well as stronger cooperation with institutions, are crucial for the further growth of women’s entrepreneurship.
Discussions highlighted that continued progress depends on stronger support – from more accessible financing and mentorship opportunities to institutional cooperation – so that women in business and politics have equal chances to realize their full potential. To this end, NALED established the Council for Small Businesses this year, providing an additional form of support to women entrepreneurs and small business owners.
The competition for women’s entrepreneurship grants, totaling £50,000, is open until midnight on September 14. All necessary information is available in the applicants’ guide.
