The results of “Tandau” pilot project implemented by the Eurasia Foundation of Central Asia (EFCA) within framework of Zhylyoi Development Program of Tengizchevroil LLP (TCO) were summed up in Kulsary. The project provided the residents with unique opportunities to start and develop their own business through the issuance of loans.

According to the results of 2023-2024, 105 people were trained. Of these, 44 participants received financial support for their business projects. In total, loans totaling 155 million tenge were issued to small businesses over the year.

The project is unique in that it involves reinvesting the returned funds in new business initiatives, providing long-term support and development of small and medium-sized businesses. It’s objective is to improve quality of life of local residents and have a positive impact on development of the community, becoming an important tool for supporting and developing business in Zhylyoi district.
Gulnafis Aishuakova, Deputy Akim of Zhylyoi district, highlighted that Tandau project is in demand among residents and has proven its effectiveness.

- “Tandau” provides great opportunities for Zhylyoi residents, because one of the key results of the project was provision of support and involvement of vulnerable groups of the population, including large families and youth. We wish the participants success in business and hope for continuation of the project, - shared Gulnafis Aishuakova.

In addition, the award ceremony for the third stage winners was held on that day. They were 18 people, including 13 large families, 8 women, 8 youth representatives and 5 demobilized employees of the Business Partners from Tengiz field. At this stage of the project, loans were allocated to support such business areas as education, auto repair services, meat products, food agriculture, clothing production and information technology. The evaluation of the applications received was carried out by TCO and EFCA employees and local independent entrepreneurs with extensive experience in a business sector.

According to one of the winners of the competition, Zholaman Issabek, initially he had doubts about the project, but then he has seen the real results and successes of the previous participants.

- The training helped me to develop a business plan and gain valuable relevant knowledge. I own a car parts and accessories store, and my customers often asked me to open a tire repair center nearby. In order to set-up, it with modern equipment, and improve quality of the service provided, I applied for a scholarship of Tandau project and won it. Now I have a plan to employ three local residents, - said Zholaman Issabek.

According to Askar Ibragimov, “Tandau” project coordinator from TCO, the program allowed entrepreneurs to improve their qualifications and master the skills necessary for successful business. The residents of Zhylyoi district were able to launch new businesses in various industries, such as agriculture, manufacturing, retail trade and service sector. This not only stimulated the economic growth of the region, but also created new jobs.

“It is especially important to note that the program contributed to development of entrepreneurial initiatives among young people, women and demobilized workers from Tengiz. Thus, Tandau pilot program has become an important tool for creating a more inclusive and sustainable economy in the region. In general, the pilot project with microfinance has demonstrated its effectiveness and significance, and its success is an excellent basis for scaling up the program and implementing it for a longer period of time”, - Project coordinator Askar Ibragimov told at the closing ceremony.

It should be noted that Tandau project has been implemented in Atyrau Oblast since September 2023. The participants gain knowledge on strategic and financial planning, marketing and business development, as well as the opportunity to purchase the necessary equipment using the loan for 5 years.