Four women entrepreneurs are growing their businesses with the support of Switzerland and UN Women Moldova

Four women entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova have strengthened their businesses thanks to economic vouchers provided by UN Women Moldova and the Swiss Cooperation Office. On Thursday, 4 September 2025, representatives of the two organizations joined a study visit to see how investments of USD 4,000 each have been turned into new equipment, sustainable production processes, and opportunities for business growth – from educational toys and natural pet snacks to recycled design and sustainable fashion.

The visit was led by Mr. Guido Beltrani, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Moldova, together with Deputy Director Mr. Simone Di Stefano, as part of the ongoing partnership between UN Women and Switzerland under the “Women for Peace and Prosperity” initiative. It provided an opportunity to meet directly with the entrepreneurs, learn how access to equipment and raw materials has simplified their daily work, and discuss their future growth plans.

The entrepreneurs visited were: Marcela Mastac – “GUGA GAGA” (wooden toys and sustainable children’s furniture), Milena Motricala – “AUFPET” (healthy snacks for pets), Oana Păun & Cristina Țocari – “Recycline” (design from recycled plastic), and Oxana Lungu – “Lia Fia” (sustainable fashion). The four were selected as winners of the Ellevator Accelerator – Go to Market Edition, implemented by Yep!Moldova in partnership with UN Women Moldova and with financial support from Switzerland. After three months of training and mentorship, nine finalists pitched their businesses to a jury of experts, with these four women entrepreneurs securing the economic vouchers.

The partners emphasized the importance of such support for women entrepreneurs and their communities. “Switzerland has remained a trusted partner of Moldova, supporting women on their path to economic independence and innovation. These businesses are tangible examples of resilience and creativity, with a direct impact on local communities. We firmly believe that supporting women entrepreneurs and ensuring their access to resources and opportunities is a strategic investment,” said Guido Beltrani, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Moldova.

Svetlana Andries, Deputy Country Representative of UN Women Moldova, underlined: “Women’s economic empowerment is essential to achieve gender equality and to build resilient communities. Through these initiatives, we have seen how investing in women not only transforms their lives and those of their families, but also brings added value to society as a whole. The success of women entrepreneurs in Moldova confirms that when women have access to resources and opportunities, they become drivers of change and sustainable development.”

The study visit showcased the tangible results of the partnership between UN Women and Switzerland, proving that targeted financial support, combined with training and mentoring, can transform bold ideas into viable and sustainable businesses.