Hello,

I am Giga Kiparoidze, an economist by profession and the founder and director of a tea processing factory in Mandaeti, Chiatura. I firmly believe that our tea, cultivated in a high-mountainous and environmentally pristine region, will soon gain recognition among a wider audience. Today's increasing demand for high-quality, eco-friendly, and organic products contributes to this potential recognition.

I would like to share my small experience and the results I have already achieved, thanks to the significant contribution of the GRETA project, funded with the support of the European Union, Sweden, and Austria.

In 2019, I made a conscious decision to focus on organic production, and it was during this period that I came across the GRETA project, which specifically aimed at the development of organic production. It was a perfect alignment of interests, and this marked a turning point in my work and plans. The project provided invaluable assistance, particularly in terms of acquiring the necessary machinery and equipment for tea processing. I must admit that when I initially learned that my idea had reached the final stage and that the funding was indeed real, it felt somewhat surreal. However, subsequent actions transformed this incredible story into a reality. These actions were followed by the greatest help in terms of marketing. I even managed to present my products at international exhibitions, laying the foundation for future cooperation. This cooperation is still ongoing, which, as you will probably agree, is a tremendous opportunity for entrepreneurs on such a small scale.

Additionally, I would like to mention that my plans included strengthening my position in the local market, and I received significant assistance from donors in this regard. Preparing marketing materials specifically tailored for the local market, such as video clips, television presentations, and social media promotions, along with branding and other essential marketing steps, have significantly boosted the awareness of my products within the business community. The support I received in this area has been highly evident and has substantially impacted my business.

This is not the end of my story. As I mentioned, the demand for bio-organic products is steadily increasing, and it has become crucial to receive support for the bio-certification process. Both financial assistance and knowledge sharing on managing organic production were essential. Thanks to the European Union, Sweden, and Austria, I received multiple coverages of the annual bio-certification fee, which proved significant support for a small-scale entrepreneur like myself. As a result, not only did we participate in the bio-certification process, but we also took the initiative to introduce the ISO 22000 quality mark. I proudly announce that my products will bear the bio certification and ISO 22000 quality mark next year.

We have emphasised the importance of quality, and I must say that it is the most crucial factor in today's market. I wouldn't be able to proclaim this with such conviction if not for the equipment I acquired through the aid and the knowledge I gained from the training sessions conducted within the project, which unequivocally raised the production quality.

 I would also like to honestly acknowledge that without the support and resources provided, it would be challenging to implement my plans on such a significant scale and introduce modern approaches. I firmly believe that adopting modern approaches is crucial in our line of work. Representatives in our sector need to stay updated with the latest news and be aware of the opportunities offered by donors through various projects. Drawing from my personal experience, I can confidently state that this is one of the key prerequisites for success.

Looking ahead, I have ambitious plans, including expanding production and actively participating in the developing eco-tourism in Chiatura. I aspire to revitalise our region in this field shortly.

I won't burden you with excessive details about my plans, but I want to convey that Giga Kiparoidze and "Agrokultura+" are eager for new collaborations. Whether to discuss exciting ideas or share experiences, I am always available through my email address: giga.kiparoidze@gmail.com.

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With the support of the European Union, Sweden and Austria, 68 small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in the highland region of Georgia have received substantial assistance for their business development.

Take advantage of the upcoming success stories, where incredibly fascinating people will share their experiences with us.

Project GRETA | "Green Economy: Sustainable Mountain Tourism and Organic Agriculture" is implemented by the Austria Development Agency in Georgia with the support of the European Union, Austria, and Sweden. The project aims to improve the business environment and create new income opportunities in two important sectors of the Georgian economy, mountain tourism and organic agriculture. Find more about the GRETA project here: www.gretaproject.ge

This material has been produced with the assistance of the European Union, Sweden, and Austria, within the framework of the GRETA project.  Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Austrian Development Agency /GRETA Project and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union, Sweden, or Austria.

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