The Energy Community Secretariat, co-chaired by the European Commission, has advertised a vacancy for a Renewable Energy Expert, based in Vienna, Austria, with an expected starting date in June 2026. The successful candidate will contribute to advancing renewable energy policy development and implementation across the Energy Community, supporting Contracting Parties in aligning with the EU acquis, and accelerating the clean energy transition. The role includes monitoring progress, supporting regulatory frameworks, and contributing to policy analysis and stakeholder engagement. The candidate should be a citizen of an EU Member States or of any Contracting Party to the Treaty, including Georgia, Moldova,

The post Energy Community Secretariat opens vacancy for Renewable Energy Expert appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

As a teenager, Steliana Rudco felt something was wrong with Moldovan society. At first, she realised she did not agree with her parents’ upbringing – they instilled in her values and ideas characteristic of a patriarchal society. Later, she noticed that teachers did not treat all students equally. Not knowing how to change the situation, she lived through her adolescence with a sense of injustice. It was only as an adult that she began to take action. More specifically, she began to speak openly about the inequality around her and fight to for the rights of girls and women. “The

The post ‘Who said I can’t?’ Steliana Rudko has a superpower – motivating girls and women to fight for their rights appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The ‘Covenant of Mayors – East’ (CoM East) is celebrating its 15th anniversary by launching a national contest to recognise municipalities leading the way toward low‑carbon and climate‑resilient development.  The contest is open to all active CoM East signatories in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova and Ukraine. Municipalities of any size are welcome, but each can submit only one application. Applicants should have developed a Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plan. Winners will be recognised at a conference taking place on 20 May in Chisinau (Republic of Moldova).  Beyond certificates, winners gain visibility via CoM East channels and may receive a modest

The post ‘Covenant of Mayors – East’ launches contest for sustainable municipalities in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova, and Ukraine appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

On 17 March, the European Commission disbursed €189 million under the Moldova Reform and Growth Facility, following Moldova’s successful completion of 24 reforms.  Out of this, €173 million will be paid directly into the state budget, and €16 million will support projects in Moldova through the Neighbourhood Investment Platform. Today’s disbursement comes on top of €289 million provided to Moldova in 2025. “Moldova has again delivered on its EU commitments,” said EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos. “Implemented reforms bring real benefits, from less paperwork to better online services and a cleaner environment. When our partners deliver, the EU should deliver

The post EU delivers extra €189 million under Reform and Growth Facility for Moldova appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

EU leaders strongly condemn Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s civilian infrastructure, which have led to the contamination of the Dniester River — the main source of fresh water for the Republic of Moldova. In this context, the European Union expresses its readiness to support Moldova in mitigating the environmental impact, including through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, while welcoming the swift assistance provided by Member States.

These findings are reflected in the conclusions adopted by the European Council at its meeting on 19 March 2026, where the Republic of Moldova is explicitly mentioned as being directly affected by the consequences of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The statement fits into a broader context in which the European Union is analyzing the regional effects of the conflict — from security and energy to environmental impact.

Thus, the Republic of Moldova is recognized as one of the countries directly affected by these developments, and EU support reflects its commitment to promoting stability, resilience, and security in the Eastern neighborhood.

Main results

As the Republic of Moldova advances in its European Union accession process, European integration is not limited to negotiations and reforms at the national level. It also entails concrete changes in the functioning of institutions, in the ways communities interact, and in the application of fundamental values such as transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability in everyday life. This transformation largely depends on the presence of strong local actors. Communities need organisations capable of mobilising citizens, fostering dialogue, building trust, and promoting collaboration between residents, local authorities, and the business environment.

In this context, the ActEU for Moldova – Mobilising Communities for EU Integration (2026–2028) project has been launched, implemented by a consortium consisting of People in Need, the National LEADER Rural Development Network, and EcoVisio, with financial support from the European Union.

Objective of the Call
The objective of this call is to strengthen the capacity of ten (10) Local Action Groups (LAGs) through a structured development programme. Selected LAGs will receive targeted support to enhance governance and management systems, develop technical skills and project implementation capacities, and strengthen long-term sustainability.

By strengthening LAG capacities, the project aims to expand the ability of local communities to actively participate in and contribute to the European integration process of the Republic of Moldova.

Stages of Support Implementation
Support for the 10 selected LAGs will be implemented in four consecutive stages:

Stage 1 – Organisational Capacity Assessment (OCAT): Each selected LAG will undergo an assessment using the OCAT tool, which will also include a greening audit, conducted with the support of EcoVisio experts.

Stage 2 – Development of Strategic Development and Action Plan (SDAP): Based on the results of the OCAT assessment and the greening audit, each LAG will integrate the findings into an individual Plan.

Stage 3 – Capacity Development and Tailored Mentoring: Identified gaps will be addressed through capacity-building measures, including training, mentoring, coaching, and technical assistance in areas such as strategic communications, fundraising, partnership development, and financial management.

Stage 4 – Access to Grants: LAGs that complete the previous stages will be eligible to apply for:

• Organisational Capacity and Institutional Strengthening Grant (€6,400)
• Sustainable Local Development Initiative Grant (€15,000 or €28,000)

Information for Applicants
Note: In parallel with this LAG call, People in Need will launch a separate call for ten (10) civil society organisations (CSOs). Organisations are encouraged to apply under the call that corresponds to their legal status.

Information Session: 20 March 2026 at 10:00. Registration required.

Documentation: Detailed information on selection criteria is available in the Applicant’s Guide.

Application Forms:

• Annex 1: Expression of Interest Form
• Annex 2: Declaration of Sole Responsibility

Deadline for submission: 1 April 2026, 23:59.

Email for applications: concurs@reteauarurala.md

Contact Information:
Cristina Dușa, Project Manager
Email: cristina.dusa@reteauarurala.md

The European Environment Agency (EEA) and its European Environment Information and Observation Network (Eionet) today welcomed the Republic of Moldova as a cooperating country, extending the EEA’s country network to 32 member and 7 cooperating countries across Europe. The EEA is one of the first EU agencies to integrate Moldova into its regular activities and operational structures.

The EEA Management Board formally endorsed Moldova today as a cooperating country of the organisation. With the Management Board’s endorsement today, Moldova becomes the seventh cooperating country of the EEA, joining the Western Balkan partners Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Kosovo¹.

Moldova’s landscapes and ecosystems form part of wider European ecological systems, and its environmental challenges often mirror those faced across the region. An oil spill, caused by Russian attack on a Ukrainian hydropower complex located on the Dniester River close to the border with Moldova, is currently affecting the wider river basin, including the Moldovan territory. Such incidents show that environment and climate challenges do not stop at national borders.

As Moldova has declared a state of environmental alert due to the oil spill, the Moldovan delegation was prevented from participating in the EEA Management Board meeting. Nevertheless, the moment has been marked by the messages sent by Jessika Roswall, EU Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, Gheorghe Hajder, Moldovan minister for the Environment, Leena Ylä-Mononen, EEA’s Executive Director and André Weidenhaupt, EEA chair of the Management Board.

Moldova’s cooperation with the European Environment Agency marks an important moment in its European integration journey. It is a concrete step both for Moldova and for the European Union, as we strengthen our cooperation and joint commitment to a healthy and sustainable environment that can strengthen our preparedness, security and resilience.

Jessika Roswall,

European Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy

The Republic of Moldova welcomes this new stage of cooperation with the European Environment Agency and its Eionet network. Joining this community of partners strengthens our capacity to develop evidence-based environmental policies, improve environmental data systems, and align our practices with European standards. At a time when Moldova is advancing important reforms of its environmental institutions, including the strengthening of the Environmental Agency, the experience and expertise of the EEA and the Eionet network will be invaluable. Access to reliable and comparable environmental data will allow us to better understand environmental challenges and design effective public policies. This cooperation will support our efforts to modernise environmental governance, improve data quality and transparency, and accelerate our alignment with the EU environmental acquis as part of Moldova’s European integration path.

Gheorghe Hajder

Republic of Moldova’s Minister of Environment

We are very happy to announce that the Republic of Moldova is joining the European Environment Agency as a cooperating country and becoming part of our network. Environmental challenges know no borders and cooperation is essential to address them effectively. We have already been working very constructively with Moldovan colleagues under the ongoing Energy Community project, and before that, as part of the ENI SEIS II East project. We look forward to further expanding this cooperation. Incidents such as the oil spill on the river Dniester are a testimony not only to common challenges we face, including those caused by war, but also to the solutions we can develop together. 

Leena Ylä‑Mononen

EEA Executive Director

On behalf of all the other 38 countries, I welcome Moldova as the 39th country in our Eionet family. Eionet connects people and expertise from across Europe, facilitating not only data flows but also knowledge exchange, allowing us to achieve our shared ambitions for a more sustainable Europe.

André Weidenhaupt

Chair of EEA Management Board

Roadmap for integration to the EEA

The European Environment Agency’s cooperation framework allows cooperating countries to engage in the Agency’s activities and become part of Eionet. Cooperating countries contribute to and benefit from shared environmental data, assessments and capacity‑building activities, supporting improved environmental governance and evidence‑based policymaking across Europe. Eionet consists of the EEA’s member and cooperating countries. The 32 member countries include the 27 European Union Member States, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and Türkiye.

Cooperation with the EEA forms part of the Republic of Moldova’s broader commitment to European integration. This was reaffirmed at the highest political level in the Joint Declaration following the first EU–Moldova Summit in July 2025, which references Moldova’s participation in selected EU agencies, including the EEA.

Moldova applied for European Union membership in March 2022 and was officially recognised as an EU membership candidate in June 2022 and began accession negotiations in June 2024. 

Cooperation between the EEA and Moldova will begin with a dedicated onboarding and diagnostic phase (2026 – 2028). The goals of this phase are to:

• Support Moldova in building the institutional and technical foundations for future gradual Eionet integration. 
• Provide a clear roadmap for environmental data reporting to EEA in line with the approximation to the EU environmental acquis. 
• Facilitate Moldova’s progressive participation in EEA systems, networks, and knowledge platforms. 

The cooperation is supported by the European Union through its external cooperation programmes.

Source: https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/newsroom/news/eea-and-eionet-welcome-moldova-as-a-cooperating-country

The European Commission has delivered €189 million under the Moldova Reform and Growth Facility, following Moldova’s successful completion of 24 reforms. This highlights the significant progress the country has made to advance on its EU path. 

Out of this, €173 million will be paid directly into the state budget, and €16 million will support projects in Moldova through the Neighbourhood Investment Platform. Today’s disbursement comes on top of €289 million provided to Moldova in 2025. 

Marta Kos, Commissioner for Enlargement said: “Moldova has again delivered on its EU commitments. Implemented reforms bring real benefits, from less paperwork to better online services and a cleaner environment. When our partners deliver, the EU should deliver too. Our funds will directly support Moldovans and help the country continue its EU path”. 

This payment follows Commission’s positive assessment of 24 steps completed by Moldova under the Reform and Growth Facility. Key reforms achieved aimed, among others, at reducing administrative burden for businesses, strengthening cybersecurity and emergency response, advancing the digitalisation of government services, improving budgetary transparency as well as strengthening the anti-fraud, asset recovery and judicial systems. National electricity and balancing markets were launched, and adoption of renewable energy scaled up. 

As part of the Growth Plan, Moldova is delivering on reforms on making the country more attractive for foreign investments. With this objective, in September 2025, the Commission launched a call for interest for the private sector to boost investment in Moldova, open for applications until June 2026. The initiative aims to build a series of transformative private investments in Moldova that that are eligible for support from the Commission and partner financial institutions.

The European Commission and the Republic of Moldova today agreed on a two-year Comprehensive Strategy for Energy Independence and Resilience of Moldova, aiming to decouple Moldova from the insecurities of Russian supply of energy and fully integrate it in the EU energy market. 

Under this strategy, overall support for the Republic of Moldova would amount to €250 million for 2025, of which €100 million will be provided by the EU by mid-April. In addition to this overall support, and as part of the same strategy, an offer of €60 million is made available for the people in the Transnistrian region of Moldova (the Left Bank) subject to conditions.

In the short term, the overall package will support Moldovan consumers who are facing steep price increases on the Right Bank. It will allow to compensate all excess electricity costs for all households for up to 110 kWh every month until 31 December 2025. It will also include a hardship fund to alleviate the energy bills of the most exposed households and allow to compensate for the entire increase of electricity costs for social institutions, including kindergartens, schools and hospitals. 

Additional funding of €15 million will be provided to support the energy bills of agro-food and manufacturing businesses. Furthermore, through the mobilisation of international financial institutions, additional funding of €50 million will be available for sustainable investments in energy efficiency projects by local public authorities, households and SMEs.

Under this strategy, funding of €60 million is also available for the more than 350,000 people in the Transnistrian region who were left in cold in January after Gazprom discontinued energy supplies. This support is subject to steps being taken on fundamental freedoms and human rights in the Transnistrian region and excludes energy intensive activities. 

In the longer term, the EU support will allow Moldova to improve its energy security through investments and reforms for the energy transition and ensure the full phase out of Russian supply of energy resources. The package is a continuation of the work done by the European Union and partners to reduce Moldova’s energy vulnerability. Today Moldova’s energy system is providing electricity and heat without any blackouts.

The Strategy will unfold in three steps:

• Under the first step, the Commission has already provided €30 million EU emergency support announced on 27 January.
• The second step will entail €100 million in further financial support to  Moldova until mid-April to alleviate higher energy bills for consumers on the Right Bank. Additional funding is also available to support the people of the Transnistrian region subject to steps being taken on fundamental freedoms and human rights.
• Under the third step, the Commission and international partners will finance actions and investments in Moldova’s energy resilience and independence and support to lower energy costs for all Moldovans. The actions will be included in the Reform Agenda under the Moldova Growth Plan and implemented until the end of 2026.

Gazprom has not honoured its contractual obligations, stopping supplies of gas to the Transnistrian region of Moldova. As a result, a serious energy crisis has broken out with serious economic and social consequences for inhabitants in Moldova and a devastating impact on the livelihood of people in the Transnistrian region.

You can read the press release here.

The European Commission has opened applications for its annual Blue Book Traineeship programme in October 2026.

The Blue Book Traineeship programme is a five-month paid internship offered by the European Commission, providing young graduates from around the world with hands-on experience in EU policymaking and administration. 

The October 2026 session will last for five months and give applicants the opportunity to apply to around 1,000 positions in the Commission’s many departments, services and agencies split between Brussels, Luxembourg and the national bureaus in the 27 EU Member States.

All EU citizens are eligible, and a limited number of positions are allocated to non-EU nationals, including from the Eastern Partnership, in specific Directorates-General or Services.

Traineeships are split into two types: Administrative Traineeships and Translation Traineeships unique to the Directorate-General for Translation (DGT). Scientific traineeships are also available at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC).

Prospective applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, not have any prior work experience in the EU institutions in excess of six weeks, and be fluent in at least two EU languages, one of which must be English, French or German. 

Trainees are expected to have an open-minded approach to European issues, an interest in the Commission’s work, a proactive attitude and a willingness to work in a multicultural environment.

The selected trainees will receive a grant of €1,538.16 to cover their living expenses but must secure accommodation at their own initiative.

The daily work of a trainee consists of a diverse array of tasks, including attending and organising meetings, working groups, and public hearings, researching documents, answering citizens’ inquiries, and supporting the management of projects.

The application procedure will take place through the European Commission Authentication Service (EU Login) where applicants will need to register.

The deadline for applications is 7 April, 10am Brussels time.

Find out more

Press release

CLOSING DATE

April 7, 2026

The EU-funded Creative Europe programme has launched a new call to support projects carrying out a broad spectrum of activities and initiatives involving artists and stakeholders active in different cultural and creative sectors.

The European Cooperation Projects are transnational projects involving organisations in the cultural and creative sectors from different countries taking part in the programme, including Armenia, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. They give cultural organisations of all sizes, including micro-organisations and small-sized organisations, the possibility to co-produce, cooperate, experiment, innovate, be mobile and learn from each other.

With a budget of around €60 million, this year’s call will foster cooperation between organisations active in the field of culture, increasing the cross-border dimension of creation and circulation of European artistic content. It will also encourage the development, experimentation, dissemination, and application of new and innovative practices.

Activities may include (but are not limited to) promoting the transnational mobility of artists and professionals; improving access to European cultural and creative works; developing new, and enhancing existing skills; contributing to aspects of inclusion and gender equality and enhancing intercultural dialogue; and actively involving young people in cultural and creative activities to foster innovation, co-creation, and intergenerational dialogue.

The call is divided into two categories: small and medium scale projects.

To apply for small scale projects, the consortium must be composed of a minimum of three independent entities from three different eligible countries and request a maximum of €200,000 (per project). The funding rate is a maximum of 80%.

To apply for medium scale projects, the consortium must be composed of a minimum five independent entities from five different eligible countries and request a maximum of €1 million (per project). The funding rate is a maximum of 70%.

The deadline for applications is 5 May.

European cooperation projects are open to all the cultural and creative sectors. However, considering that this action is part of the Culture strand of the Creative Europe programme, projects with exclusive audio-visual content and/or exclusively composed of organisations from the audio-visual sector are not eligible to apply.

Find out more

Press release

CLOSING DATE

May 5, 2026

Elena Comerzan opened a foreign language school in her hometown of Dubăsari a year ago. For more than a decade, she taught English and German in Chișinău, but the thought of returning home never left her. With the support of the European Union, provided through the “Confidence Building Measures” programme implemented by UNDP Moldova, Elena equipped the school with the necessary furniture and equipment.

“I started working while I was still at university. I always told myself that one day I would return home, to my town,” Elena recalls.

In the town of Dubăsari there had been no foreign language school. There were only occasional private lessons offered by a few teachers at home or in schools. Elena wanted more for the young people in her community: a modern and interactive learning environment.

“I opened this school thanks to the European Union funding. Only then was I able to get the business off the ground,” says Elena. She received ergonomic furniture and interactive boards, as well as mentoring to help put the school on a stable footing.

“I received answers to every question. I learned along the way how to attract clients and develop my business. I started with 25 students. I remember the first days – I was emotional but full of hope. Now, after one year, we have more than 80 students enrolled in our courses,” Elena says proudly.

The school offers English and Romanian language courses, and German courses will also be introduced later.

“We have more than 20 students, both adults and children, learning Romanian. Among them are Ukrainians, foreigners settled in the region, as well as local residents who did not know Romanian and who can now communicate and integrate better,” the young entrepreneur adds.

So far, the school has created three stable jobs, and one of the teachers, who had planned to move to Chișinău in search of better employment opportunities, decided to stay in Dubăsari.

Elena’s project is about hope, about building bridges between people, and about offering equal opportunities regardless of where people live. In a constantly changing world, the ability to speak several languages opens doors – to education, to better jobs, and to greater understanding between diverse communities.

The foreign language school opened a year ago in Dubăsari has become a dynamic space where children come with enthusiasm, where adults return with confidence, and where teachers find the motivation to contribute to a more united community.

“I want my students to have the same opportunities as those in big cities or abroad. Education should not be a luxury, but a right for everyone,” Elena says.

By supporting small and medium-sized businesses, the European Union’s Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP, contributes to creating economic opportunities on both banks of the Nistru River.

This material was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its content is the sole responsibility of the Confidence Building Measures Programme, funded by the European Union. The content of the material belongs to the authors and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

Nominations are open for the 2026 edition of the IJ4EU Impact Award, an annual prize by Investigative Journalism for Europe (IJ4EU) recognising outstanding cross-border investigative journalism in Europe.

The award, managed by the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) on behalf of the IJ4EU fund, honours investigative teams whose reporting has demonstrated significant impact, journalistic rigour and effective transnational collaboration.

An independent jury will select three equal winners, each receiving a €5,000 prize. The winners will be announced in September 2026 at the IJ4EU UNCOVERED Conference, a flagship gathering of Europe’s investigative journalism community.

The award is open to cross-border investigations first published between 1 January and 31 December 2025 in any credible medium, including print, broadcast television or radio, online outlets, documentary film, multimedia formats and podcasts.

To qualify, investigations must involve journalists based in at least two European countries that participate in the full cross-sectoral strand of the European Union’s Creative Europe Programme, which provides core funding for IJ4EU.

Eligible countries include all 27 EU member states and several non-EU countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine. Team members based in countries anywhere in the world are welcome to take part, but they must be part of teams that fulfil the core geographical criteria. 

Eligibility is based on residency (where you live and work) and not nationality (citizenship).

The deadline for nominations is 23 April.

Find out more

Press release

IJ4EU Impact Award

CLOSING DATE

April 23, 2026

The European Solidarity Corps, together with the SALTO Resource Centre, invites youth workers, youth leaders, youth project managers, volunteering mentors, and youth coaches from the Eastern partner countries to join its training for organisations active in the volunteering actions.

The training will take place in the Slovak Republic, from 20 to 24 April 2026.

It aims to strengthen the capacities of organisations involved in ESC Volunteering Actions, focusing on quality, impact, project design, programme rules and peer learning, supported by an obligatory online preparatory phase before the residential training in Slovakia.

The call is open to participants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine.

This project is financed by the participating National Agencies (NAs) of the Erasmus+ Youth in Action Programme. The participation fee varies from country to country. Please contact your National Agency or SALTO Resource Centre (SALTO) to learn more about the participation fee for participants from your country.

The deadline for applications is 15 March.

Find out more

Call announcement

CLOSING DATE

March 15, 2026

Civil society organisations (CSOs) from the Eastern partner countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine) are invited to apply for networking grants to create new and strengthen existing networks and collaborations.

The call is launched as part of the ‘Enhancing the Resilience of Civil Society in the Eastern Partnership’ (ERICS-EaP) project funded by the European Commission and led by the Transatlantic Foundation (TF), in cooperation with the Black Sea Trust for Regional Cooperation programme of the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

CSOs can apply for funding to support a variety of networking activities, including but not limited to: regional network-building, cross-border cooperation, exchanges of best practices, and advocacy. The networking activities can focus on topics such as: democracy promotion, civic engagement, human rights, media, disinformation/misinformation, transparency, rule of law, etc.

The grants are for €30,000 covering a project duration of up to 12 months.

To be eligible for the grant, CSOs must be registered (if possible) and active in an EaP country. Projects must include organisations from at least three EaP countries.

The deadline for applications is 13 March. 

The ERICS-EaP project aims to foster inclusive, resilient, and democratic societies across the Eastern Partnership region. This involves enhancing the capabilities of civil society entities and bolstering their involvement in the processes of democratisation, reform, and recovery within the EaP countries.

Find out more

Press release

CLOSING DATE

March 13, 2026

More than 200 young people across the Republic of Moldova have successfully launched or expanded their businesses through the project “Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Moldova,” funded by the European Union.

After 40 months of implementation, the initiative has delivered concrete results for local economic development and strengthened entrepreneurial opportunities for young people in communities across the country.

The project was implemented between December 2022 and March 2026, with a total budget of EUR 2,503,202.94, including EUR 2,000,000 provided by the European Union.

Supporting youth entrepreneurship in Moldova

The initiative was designed as a response to major challenges faced by communities in the Republic of Moldova, including youth migration, declining economic opportunities in rural areas, and the high number of young people outside the labour market and education system.

By supporting entrepreneurship and strengthening civil society organisations, the project aimed to create real employment opportunities and stimulate economic development in local communities.

Strengthening organisations and supporting young entrepreneurs

The intervention combined two complementary approaches.

On the one hand, 10 civil society organisations from different regions of the country strengthened their institutional capacities, enabling them to implement economic support programmes, manage grant schemes and provide entrepreneurial mentoring.

On the other hand, the project provided direct support to young people with entrepreneurial initiatives, through in-kind grants, entrepreneurship and management training, vocational training and individualised mentoring.

Milka Djurdjevici, Project Manager, Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe: „The project’s greatest achievement is the transformation of youth entrepreneurship into a vibrant, sustainable ecosystem, driven forward by empowered CSOs that now inspire, mentor, and mobilize young entrepreneurs across Moldova.”

Key results of the project

The results reflect the scale of the intervention at national level:

• 283 communities informed about the opportunities offered by the project;
• 647 young people applied for the entrepreneurship grant programme;
• 209 young entrepreneurs supported to launch or expand businesses;
• 232 jobs created in more than 120 localities.

The grant programme included:

• 123 grants of EUR 5,000;
• 44 grants of EUR 3,000;
• 42 grants of EUR 7,000.

The supported businesses operate in 23 economic sectors, including agriculture, production, services, IT and creative industries.

Developing entrepreneurial skills

In addition to financial support, the project placed strong emphasis on developing entrepreneurial competences:

• more than 2,250 mentoring and consultancy sessions were delivered;
• 203 young people participated in entrepreneurship training;
• 98 beneficiaries attended vocational training programmes relevant to their business sectors.

Promoting inclusion and equal opportunities

The initiative also promoted inclusion and equitable participation:

• 99% of beneficiaries were aged between 18 and 34;
• 113 women entrepreneurs and 96 men entrepreneurs participated in the programme;
• Over 35% of beneficiaries belong to vulnerable groups.

These results demonstrate the potential of entrepreneurship as a tool for social and economic inclusion.

Voices from the project

For many of the young people involved, the project meant more than financial support — it offered confidence and the opportunity to build a future in their own communities.

Elena Avricenco, entrepreneur and creator of a local brand, project beneficiary from Visoca village, Soroca district: „The support provided through this programme helped us transform an idea into a real business. We received the necessary equipment, as well as mentoring and training, which gave us the confidence that we can develop a sustainable business here at home.”

Strengthening local partnerships

The project’s impact goes beyond statistical results. Cooperation with local public authorities from 30 districts, regional branches of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and civil society organisations contributed to the creation of a functional support network for entrepreneurship across Moldova.

Sergiu Mihailov, Executive Director / Regional Project Manager, Pro Cooperare Regională: “Close collaboration with local authorities and relevant institutions enabled the rigorous identification of beneficiaries from vulnerable groups and the tailoring of support to the real needs of local communities, while also establishing a sustainable mechanism for the integration and monitoring of new businesses. To support local entrepreneurship, it is essential to maintain dialogue among CSOs, business

incubators and local public authorities, as well as to continue investing in professional training and digitalization for young entrepreneurs.”

Project partners

The project was implemented by Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe e.V., in partnership with:

• Public Association DEMOS;
• Public Association Pro Cooperare Regională;
• Public Association HomeCare;

with financial support from the European Union.

Additional information

The final project brochure, presenting the results achieved and success stories of young entrepreneurs, is available online:

https://asociatiademos.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/brosura-rezultate_abilitarea-tinerilor-antreprenori_a5.pdf

Contact:
Public Association DEMOS
Email: ngo.demos@gmail.com
Website: http://asociatiademos.wordpress.com

On 3 March this year, the “Sustainable Agri-Food Systems – Business” project was presented at the AgTech 2026 Conference, one of the most important events dedicated to innovation and the development of the agri-food sector in the Republic of Moldova.

The event brought together more than 400 participants – entrepreneurs, farmers, agricultural experts, students, representatives of public institutions and the business community – all interested in modern solutions for the sustainable development of agriculture.

During the conference, the project team from Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova presented the available support opportunities for SMEs operating in the agri-food sector, including funding opportunities for business development, modernisation of production processes and the adoption of sustainable practices.

Over the next three years, the project aims to improve the enabling environment for sustainable food systems in the country and to directly support small and medium-sized enterprises in the agri-food sector to increase their competitiveness, develop sustainable business models and make the most of market opportunities.

Participation in AgTech 2026 provided a valuable platform for dialogue with sector representatives and for promoting support measures for entrepreneurs interested in developing their businesses in a sustainable way.

The “Sustainable Agri-Food Systems – Business” project is part of the Team Europe Initiative “Sustainable Agri-Food Systems”, funded by the European Union and the Czech Republic. The project is implemented by the Czech Development Agency and Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, in partnership with the Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Centre (LRATC).

Have you ever wondered whether the young people around you still open a book, or if screens have already won the battle for good? At Europe Café, we were curious to find out the answer directly from the source. That’s how the “EU I Read” campaign was born — from a simple desire to discover what worlds the new generation is exploring and to offer them a space where reading becomes a dialogue.

Do young people still read?

We spoke with members of the Euro Clubs in Chișinău and discovered that the passion for reading is very much alive. If you’re curious to hear what they have to say, visit our social media pages and watch the short videos where young people share their book recommendations. And if you’re looking for that one book that will keep you completely hooked, we have a special recommendation for you.

A conversation about all of us: “Here Is Both Heaven and Hell”

On March 19 at 17:00, we’re making room in the Europe Café agenda for a heartfelt meeting. Paula Erizanu, the writer who is making the Republic of Moldova proud with her nomination for the 2026 European Union Prize for Literature, will be joining us.

This won’t be a formal presentation, but rather an open conversation in a true European spirit — about her book “Here Is Both Heaven and Hell: The Republic of Moldova — A Century of Lived History.” Together, we’ll talk about the things that shape us as a society:

– What it means to leave home — and what it means to long for it
– The generation that grew up with parents working abroad
– How we see the past differently from our grandparents — and who we are today

Shall we meet there?

If you already have the book, bring it along for an autograph. If not, this might be the perfect reason to stop by a bookstore before the event!

When: March 19, 17:00
Where: Europe Café

How to participate: It’s simple and free, but please let us know you’re coming by filling out this short form.

We look forward to seeing you!

The Erasmus+ App is now available as open source software, making Erasmus+ digital services more transparent, collaborative and future-proof. The Erasmus+ App helps students prepare their stay abroad and access key information during mobility. It is part of the European Student Card Initiative (ESCI), which simplifies administrative processes and improves the Erasmus+ experience through digital solutions. Today, the Erasmus+ App offers a wide range of services. Students can: Higher education institutions can use the app to share events and information with mobility students and support their mobility journey. If you are  a student planning or currently on Erasmus+ mobility, Erasmus+

The post Erasmus+ App is now available as open source software  appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

A woman’s independence begins with a shift in mindset. It starts when she no longer sees herself only as a mother, wife or daughter, but as someone capable of building something of her own. It is that moment of courage when the desire for financial independence becomes stronger than the fear of failure.

In Moldova, more and more women are choosing not to wait for help, but to create their own businesses and take control of their lives.

From a mother’s care to the pride of independence: “Flavorya”

For Valentina Buhna from Nisporeni, maternity leave became the moment she decided to become an example of independence. Dissatisfied with the sweets available in shops, she began preparing natural fruit snacks in her own kitchen.

What started as a household solution quickly turned into a business — Flavorya.

Valentina realised she could turn her passion into a source of income while also creating a market for local farmers’ produce. Her products have reached international fairs and markets in Riga, Vienna and Geneva, opening the door to exports.

“I wanted to create something simple and healthy, but also prove that I could build a business from scratch,” she says.

Today, Flavorya is no longer just a family project. It is the business that gives Valentina control over her own future.

Tradition as a business: “Mioara Sudului”

In the south, in the village of Slobozia Mare, Domnica Căpățînă decided that rural work should not only be a means of survival, but also a source of economic pride.

Driven by the desire for independence, she founded her own business, “Mioara Sudului”, turning milk processing into a modern artisanal industry.

Today, under her leadership, more than 1,000 litres of sheep’s milk are transformed into artisanal cheese every week.

Domnica did not simply create a brand — she became the driving force behind the “Bacii Sudului” cluster, bringing together local producers to ensure a stable regional market.

Her vision has changed the face of the village: the workshop now uses modern equipment, and her products have become part of tourist routes in the Prut Meadow area.

“I wanted to show that we can live well from our work here at home, if we unite and do things wisely,” says Domnica.

Beauty and dignity in Cotiujenii Mari: “Camila Service”

In Cotiujenii Mari, Șoldănești district, Ana Camila realised that a hair salon is more than just a place for haircuts — it is a space where she exercises her freedom and talent.

Through “Camila Service”, Ana built her own business, proving that a woman can succeed even in a small village if she has the courage to start out on her own.

Financial independence has given her the freedom to decide how to use her time. She has therefore turned her profession into a social mission: carrying her kit with her, Ana regularly visits elderly people in the village who can no longer travel, offering her services free of charge.

“I wanted to have my own place to work, but also to help people in the village who no longer have anyone to rely on,” she says.

The craft that brings life to the community: “StyleAna”

Ana Topor turned sewing from a simple passion into a business that carries her name and secures her future.

In Sîngera, Chișinău municipality, the “StyleAna” workshop has become the place where she not only repairs clothes, but also builds her own independence every day.

Ana has shown that a craft learned with patience can become a stable source of income and a platform for educating others.

Beyond the sewing machine, she has chosen to become a mentor for local children, inviting them into her workshop to discover the art of tailoring and offering a creative alternative to time spent on mobile phones.

“It is a great pride to see clothes come out of my hands as good as new and to teach children to value manual work,” she says.

Who provided the support?

Major changes always need a starting point.

All these businesses were supported by the European Union through the EU4Youth – Employment and Entrepreneurship among Youth programme, part of the regional project “SKYE Net.” In the Republic of Moldova, the project is implemented by the MilleniuM Training and Development Institute.

In 2020 the European Commission defined disinformation as “false or misleading content that is spread with an intention to deceive or secure economic or political gain and which may cause public harm”.  But what do we mean when we talk about a disinformation narrative? These can be defined as stories aimed at specific groups which contain messages that maliciously aim to influence the way people respond to different events.   All Eastern Neighbourhood countries were once part of the Soviet Union and since its fall in 1991, Russia has sought to keep them within its own geopolitical sphere with the Kremlin

The post Disinformation Crash Course 1#: The Narratives appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The Bulgarian association ‘Hope for us-2008’ is seeking volunteers from countries including Georgia and Moldova to participate in a 21-day programme. The volunteering will take place at the Amorea Garden Eco-Hub in Bunovo village, Bulgaria, running from 26 May to 15 June 2026. Volunteers will engage in eco-building projects.They will learn how to build soil, grow and preserve organic fruits and vegetables and how to establish a botanical garden. They will also participate in community building activities with the local eco-community. Volunteers will be accommodated in a renovated, cosy and comfortable shared dormitory and private tents in a camp site.

The post European Solidarity Corps: eco-volunteering in Bulgaria – open to Georgia and Moldova appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The Agrifood Partnership Investment Forum was held in Chisinau, Moldova, on 5 March. The event was supported by the European Union, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry of Moldova. The event aimed to support Moldova’s preparations to join the EU agricultural market by adopting European rules and establishing partnerships. According to the EU Delegation to Moldova, concrete steps were outlined at the Forum: more exports and investments in horticulture, animal husbandry, and the wine sector; faster alignment with EU standards; and new partnerships between Moldovan producers and European

The post Agrifood Partnership Investment Forum supports Moldova’s preparations to join EU agricultural market appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has selected the winning ideas from the ‘Youth-Driven Green Innovation’ hackathon. The event took place from 27 February to 1 March at the Technical University of Moldova, with the support of the EU-funded and UNDP-implemented project ‘Enabling an inclusive green transition in the Republic of Moldova’. The hackathon brought together over 60 young people for three days to develop viable concepts and solutions dedicated to a greener future for the Republic of Moldova. Participants benefited from guidance from mentors in various fields – environment, entrepreneurship, and technology.  As a result, the jury selected three

The post UNDP announces winners of EU-funded ‘Youth-Driven Green Innovation’ hackathon in Moldova appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The project ‘Improving Emergency Response Capacities to Natural and Man-made Disasters in Small Communities across the Black Sea Basin Region’ (IMPACT+), co-funded by the European Union, has officially launched its e-learning platform Be prepared for emergencies. The platform offers two interactive online courses, each accompanied by learning materials and knowledge tests, designed to strengthen preparedness and response capacities in emergency situations. The Online First Aid Course provides essential life-saving skills for emergency situations, covering topics such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), wound care, and the management of common medical emergencies. Through easy-to-follow modules and video tutorials, participants gain the confidence and

The post E-learning platform ‘Be prepared for emergencies’, co-funded by EU appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The ‘Culture Helps Solidarity’ project, co-financed by the EU programme ‘Creative Europe’, offers grants for projects for Ukrainian refugees, created in cooperation with partners from Europe.  Applicants can suggest, for example, a series of open lectures on mental health, weekly painting workshops, or a neighbourliness festival. Participants have the opportunity to receive a grant ranging from €20,000 (for partnerships between two organisations) to €30,000 (for partnerships between three or more organisations). Grants may cover a wide range of expenses, including: project production; marketing and communication; rental and maintenance of studios and cultural spaces; IT, communication and production tools and materials;

The post Culture Helps Solidarity: international collaboration grants for Ukrainian refugees’ integration through culture appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The EU-funded Digital Skills and Jobs Platform has announced the 2026 edition of the Digital Skills Awards. The 2026 Award edition has five categories:  The call is open to public entities, private enterprises, academic institutions, grassroots initiatives, or EU-funded project consortiums. The project or initiative must be an ongoing project that has already achieved at least half of its objectives, or a project that was completed no earlier than January 2025.  The project or initiative must be implemented in at least one EU Member State. Projects that are also implemented in non-EU countries can apply, but have to demonstrate their

The post European Digital Skills Awards 2026 – apply by 20 March appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

The government of the Republic of Moldova will receive additional expertise to accelerate the country’s development programme as part of the Reform Support Team project, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The agreement to extend the project was signed by Government Secretary General Alexei Buz, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova Iwona Piórko and EBRD Vice-President Matteo Patrone on 5 March. The document provides for the creation of 20 new expert positions, which will be actively involved in key central government institutions. They will contribute to the development

The post EU and EBRD strengthen support for Moldovan government’s reform agenda appeared first on EU NEIGHBOURS east.

For Iulia Cernobrivcenko, the pandemic was not only a time of uncertainty, but also a new beginning. It was the moment when a simple family idea gradually turned into a business built on trust, perseverance and the support of the European Union.

While on maternity leave in Tiraspol, Iulia increasingly thought about her family’s financial security and what she could do in the long term. Together with her mother, she decided to turn their sewing experience into a real business opportunity with the support of the European Union’s EU4Business initiative.

An economist by profession, Iulia joined forces with her mother, Victoria Pirogova, an experienced seamstress who had spent many years creating costumes for a local theatre. Their skills complemented each other naturally: Iulia manages the administrative and financial side of the business, while Victoria oversees production and ensures the quality of each product.

“At the beginning we were sewing protective masks in large quantities,” Iulia recalls. “Then personalised orders started to appear. Step by step, we realised that we could do more and that the business had real potential to grow.”

Victoria remembers how their collaboration came about naturally:

“I was already working from home for different clients. When my daughter went on maternity leave, I suggested that we try working together. I wanted her to have stability. That is how everything started — slowly but steadily.”

A turning point came when Iulia discovered the Business HUB in Tiraspol — the first support centre for entrepreneurs in the region, established in 2022 under the European Union’s Confidence Building Measures programme, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Moldova. Participation in trainings, practical workshops and meetings with other entrepreneurs provided Iulia not only with business knowledge, but also with the confidence to take her idea further.

“For me, the Business HUB was like a real school,” she says. “I learned how the market works, how to develop my business and, most importantly, I gained confidence.”

After analysing market demand, Iulia identified a clear niche: professional clothing for medical staff.

“Doctors and nurses spend long hours at work. They need comfortable, durable and well-designed uniforms that provide comfort throughout the entire day.”

What started at home with just two sewing machines gradually grew into a fully-fledged workshop, now known as Fatin. In 2024, with support of around €17,000 from the European Union through the EU4Business initiative, Iulia managed to significantly expand her activity and move production into a modern space equipped with professional machinery.

“We purchased industrial sewing and overlocking machines, equipment for specialised stitching, an embroidery machine, and professional ironing equipment,” she explains. “All of this has helped us work more efficiently and improve the quality of our products.”

The expansion also meant new jobs. Galina Bezprozvannaia, who joined the team after working in a large textile company, says the difference is clear:

“When you have good equipment, you can work faster and more precisely. That is immediately reflected in the quality of the final product.”

Today, the workshop produces uniforms for medical professionals, beauty industry specialists and employees in the food service sector, and the number of clients continues to grow. In addition to financial support and mentorship, Iulia also received assistance in developing the brand’s visual identity so that the products could be more easily recognised on the market. She is currently working on a catalogue for the new product range.

Looking ahead, she plans to automate part of the production processes to increase order volumes and improve efficiency.

Iulia’s initiative is part of a broader programme by the European Union and UNDP aimed at supporting entrepreneurs on both banks of the Dniester, strengthening local businesses and creating sustainable jobs. So far, more than €529,000 has been invested in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.

For Iulia, however, everything remains deeply personal: a business born in the family and grown through patience and hard work. And every uniform sewn in her workshop tells the same story — that with the right support and determination, even the most modest beginning can take flight.

On the left bank of the Dniester River, poultry farming has long been part of everyday life. For Iurie Flerciuc, it is more than just a source of income — it is a family tradition he grew up with and learned directly from his father. However, turning this experience into a modern and competitive business required more than hard work: it demanded investment, planning and the courage to take the next step.

Iurie chose to continue his family’s activity in poultry farming. Having grown up in this environment, he understands both the challenges and the potential of the business.
“When you already know how things work, it is easier to move forward,” he explains. “All we needed to do was organise ourselves properly and invest wisely.”

The opportunity came when Iurie decided to formalise his plans and develop a business project. His idea — to double production by expanding the farm — received support from the European Union through the EU4Business initiative, under the Confidence Building Measures programme implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

A €20,000 EU4Business grant enabled Iurie to build a second poultry house and introduce modern digital equipment that automates key processes, including feeding, watering, ventilation and heating. This investment marked a turning point for the business, significantly reducing manual labour and increasing efficiency.

“The system is very modern and well designed,” Iurie explains.
“Everything works automatically — feeding, ventilation, heating. Technology does most of the work, and we can focus on quality and the welfare of the birds.”

The new facility can host around 15,000 birds brought from the right bank of the Dniester. Thanks to the controlled environment, some birds reach the optimal weight for processing in just 45 days. Despite the high level of automation, the farm has created two new jobs, contributing to local employment.

“We are still a small farm, but we already have loyal customers,” Iurie says proudly. “Our products are in high demand. Of course, agriculture also depends on external factors such as weather, but creating the right conditions for the birds makes a huge difference.”

Iurie is one of 20 entrepreneurs from both banks of the Dniester who received EU4Business support in 2024 to start or expand their businesses. In total, more than €529,000 has been invested to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises across the region.

Iurie’s experience reflects a broader effort to support SMEs on both banks of the Dniester. Through the EU4Business initiative, the European Union continues to help entrepreneurs modernise their businesses, create jobs and develop resilient local economies.

Since 2014, the European Union’s Confidence Building Measures programme, implemented by UNDP, has supported the development and competitiveness of more than 70 SMEs on both banks of the Dniester.

‘Agence du Service Civique’, a French national agency, invites youth workers, youth project managers, youth policy makers, and youth researchers to take part in a European seminar on ‘Youth work in rural areas’. 

Join this seminar to explore the reality of rural youth work across Europe, to discuss how to better reach and support young people with fewer opportunities, and to exchange practices on how European youth programmes can strengthen youth work in rural areas.

The call is open to applicants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine.

The seminar is scheduled for 18-22 May 2026 and will take place in Manosque, France.

This project is financed by the participating National Agencies (NAs) of the Erasmus+ Youth in Action Programme. The participation fee varies from country to country. Please contact your National Agency or SALTO Resource Centre (SALTO) to learn more about the participation fee for participants from your country. The hosting NA or SALTO of this offer will organise the accommodation and cover the costs for accommodation and food.

Find out more

Press release

CLOSING DATE

March 8, 2026

The EU4Digital Academy has partnered with the EU-funded CYRUS e-learning platform to deepen knowledge in the area of cybersecurity. Besides its own ‘Cybersecurity’ course, the EU4Digital Academy’s online catalogue of free-of-charge training material now includes three CYRUS cybersecurity-related courses.

The CYRUS courses are available in English and cover the topics ‘Cybersecurity culture and human behaviour’, ‘Top 10 security issues and solutions’ and ‘Ransomware’. 

‘Cybersecurity culture and human behaviour’

This course is designed for non-technical professionals, such as HR managers, purchasing officers, supply chain managers, and office workers to deepen their understanding of cybersecurity risks and response strategies. It focuses on the critical role that human factors play in cybersecurity, and provides strategies for effective communication during and after security incidents.

Cybersecurity culture and human behaviour

‘Top 10 security issues and solutions’

This four-part course is designed for software developers and web application engineers who want to build secure, resilient systems and avoid common coding mistakes. It covers typical web vulnerabilities, focusing on how they impact applications across the entire stack, starting from the base environment to modern AJAX and HTML5-based frontends. The material also explores security concerns specific to different platforms, and highlights common programming mistakes to avoid. Through live practical exercises, learners experience how to write code more securely.

Top 10 security issues and solutions

‘Ransomware’

This course is designed for people who have access to company networks, data, and devices – especially those working in the transport sector, manufacturing, or small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The course provides the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and effectively respond to ransomware attacks. It covers how ransomware operates, strategies for prevention, and incident management. Participants learn how to secure systems, recover data, and comply with legal requirements, using practical tools and real-world insights to better protect their organisation.

Ransomware

The EU4Digital Academy has been gathering course content on the most relevant topics from the best providers and platforms, to deliver training suitable for Eastern partner countries.

The CYRUS online learning platform offers training to improve the cybersecurity skills of all-level employees, entrepreneurs and civil society organisations, with a focus on transport and manufacturing sectors, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The EU-funded CYRUS project is implemented by 11 partner organisations, including EIT Manufacturing.

Find out more

Press release‘Cybersecurity’ course by EU4Digital Academy

CLOSING DATE

December 31, 2026