Apply Now: Join the SME Public-Private Dialogue Platform Led by the Deputy Prime Minister

The Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, in collaboration with the expert team from the EBRD's Investment Council of Armenia, is pleased to announce the next phase of applications for membership in the SME Development Public-Private Dialogue Platform, led by Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Khachatryan.

What is the SME Development Public-Private Dialogue Platform?

Established by the Prime Minister in 2011, the SME Development Public-Private Dialogue is a collaborative platform that bridges the Government of Armenia with SME associations. The platform, headed by Deputy Prime Minister Tigran Khachatryan, focuses on legislative reforms that enhance the business environment for SMEs.

The platform operates through monthly sub-council meetings led by the Minister of Economy and quarterly council meetings chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister. Private sector members work alongside the expert team from the EBRD's Investment Council of Armenia to identify legislative barriers affecting SMEs and develop reform proposals. These proposals are initially discussed in sub-council meetings and then reviewed at the council meetings chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister.

What Does Membership in the Public-Private Dialogue Platform Entail?

Private sector members of the platform include NGOs, chambers of commerce, industry associations, and foundations representing or working with SMEs. Members are responsible for gathering and presenting legislative issues from their constituencies at platform meetings. They also communicate the platform’s outcomes to their members and facilitate regular consultations with the expert team from the EBRD's Investment Council of Armenia. Active participation in the platform’s monthly sub-council meetings and quarterly council sessions is required.

The Role of the EBRD’s Investment Council Expert Team and the Ministry of Economy

The expert team from the EBRD's Investment Council of Armenia, together with the Ministry of Economy, collects, analyzes, and develops legislative amendment proposals based on the issues raised by platform members. These proposals are then submitted for approval during the council’s sessions.

Successful Reforms through the SME Dialogue Platform

Between 2022 and 2024, the SME Dialogue Platform addressed 42 issues, held 8 council meetings under the Deputy Prime Minister’s leadership, and 22 sub-council meetings under the Minister of Economy. This collaboration resulted in over 12 significant reforms, including programs to attract highly qualified specialists, regulations for remote work, new employee support in the manufacturing sector, and the introduction of SAFE contracts to attract startup investments. Another 12 reforms are nearing adoption, addressing issues such as bad debt, convertible debt settings, and more.

Who Can Apply?

Business associations, foundations, public organizations, and representatives of trade and industry chambers are encouraged to apply for membership in the platform.

Application Procedure

Interested organizations can apply by completing the application form available at the following link. Please submit the completed form along with the following documents to [email protected] and [email protected] by September 14, 2024:

• A copy of the organization’s charter
• A copy of the state registration certificate
• Curriculum vitae (CV) of the candidate(s) proposed for inclusion in the Council

Applications will be reviewed by the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, in consultation with the expert team from the EBRD’s Investment Council of Armenia, and submitted for approval to the Deputy Prime Minister.

Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to shaping the business environment for SMEs in Armenia!