EU support for young entrepreneurs in Moldova: success stories
Through the EU4Business initiative, the European Union supports the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Republic of Moldova by providing funding, technical assistance, and innovation support. This aid has become a key driver for local entrepreneurs, helping them turn ideas into real projects, create jobs, and contribute to the development of their communities. Below are three success stories that illustrate the direct impact of EU assistance.
A new attraction for children in Ungheni
In 2021, Anatolie Cladicov, a young entrepreneur from Ungheni, opened a business dedicated to children’s entertainment — a flexible play space that adapts to seasons and holidays, featuring outdoor inflatable trampolines in summer and covered igloo areas in winter. In 2023, Anatolie received a €14,000 grant through the “EU4Moldova: Key Regions” programme, funded by the EU and implemented by UNDP and UNICEF. The funds were used to purchase a carousel, transforming his recreation centre into a regional attraction. His business has created new jobs and brought more life to the community.
“Once you achieve your first success and see your dream come true, you realise you can accomplish your goals much faster, more efficiently, and at a higher quality, with a bigger team,” says Anatolie.
EU support has given him the confidence to plan future expansions and attract visitors from nearby localities. [Read more HERE.]
Packaging from Răspopeni
In the village of Răspopeni, Șoldănești district, Cătălina Ioncu founded a family business in 2022, initially focused on plywood, glass, and wooden decorations. The business soon evolved into the production of custom cardboard boxes for confectioneries and small dessert producers. With the support of the “EU4Moldova: Local Communities” programme, implemented through the Local Action Group “Trei Coline,” Cătălina purchased a high-performance cardboard cutting machine, allowing her to diversify her products and expand even to international markets.
The production process became more efficient, and communication with clients improved — including through tutorials and guides for assembling packaging.
“The support of the European Union helps us keep dreaming. We want to stay here, in Moldova, and build something sustainable, beautiful, and useful,” says Cătălina.
Her business is a clear example of how creativity, perseverance, and the right support can turn a small village into a reference point for the international market. [Read more HERE.]
Smart farming in Slobozia
Veronica and Veniamin Bondarenco, from Slobozia village in Ștefan Vodă district, have devoted their efforts to local agriculture, managing 350 hectares of crops and a 12-hectare plum orchard. In 2024, through the “EU4Moldova: Local Communities” programme, implemented by the Local Action Group “Drumul Kizilului,” the family received a grant to digitalize their agricultural processes. The funding enabled them to purchase a modern weather station and develop a digital platform for monitoring crops and managing their business.
These technologies allow real-time tracking of soil conditions, temperature, and humidity, reducing the need for field visits and improving team coordination. Their harvest — wheat, corn, sunflower, rapeseed, and peas — is sold both on the local market and exported to the EU.
“We now have a modern website — very simple and convenient for our clients. They already know what we do and what we offer, and when they call, they know exactly what they need,” explains Veronica.
Their future plans include expanding the business and creating more jobs within the community. [Read more HERE.]
Context
The programmes, initiatives, and projects supported by the European Union and implemented through local partnerships aim to foster sustainable, smart, and inclusive regional development in the Republic of Moldova. They empower entrepreneurs and communities, contributing to job creation, infrastructure modernization, and enhanced economic competitiveness.
The success stories of Anatolie, Cătălina, and the Bondarenco family clearly show how EU support transforms ideas into real projects that bring tangible benefits to people across the country.
