Women's Entrepreneurship Support Center Investment

Following the February 2023 earthquakes, national programs (KOSGEB, the Ministry of Family and Social Services) and international programs (UN agencies, development agencies) aimed at increasing women's workforce participation and economic resilience in the region represent an important resource. A women's entrepreneurship center combining training, mentorship, coworking space and access to microfinance can serve as a platform bringing these resources together.

What Project Types Can Be Considered?

• Entrepreneurship training and mentorship center
• Shared production/workshop space for women entrepreneurs
• Microfinance and business development consulting center
• Handicraft and local product sales/marketing support center

Which Areas Should Be Considered?

Antakya and Defne are primary locations given the concentration of the rebuilding population. Rural districts (such as Kırıkhan and Reyhanlı) offer a separate opportunity serving rural women's entrepreneurship.

Licensing and Permit Process

• Public/NGO partnership agreements (KOSGEB, development agencies)
• Trade registry registration (if commercial activity is included)
• Workplace opening and operating permit
• Relevant accreditations for training programs

Incentive and Support Elements

KOSGEB's women's entrepreneurship support programs and development agency grants can significantly reduce the setup and operating costs of this type of center; a public-private partnership model also provides financing diversity.

Points to Keep in Mind

This type of center's sustainability should rely not on one-time grant funding alone but on a diversified revenue model that includes public partnerships, training fees and coworking space revenue.