We support livelihood development through micro-entrepreneurship – with coaching as our key contribution and clearly regulated, interest-free start-up funding. The businesses are owned by local founders; returns are reinvested in new projects.

Objective: to give local people the opportunity to build a livelihood of their own.

Resources: Coaching and support (Switzerland) + local coordination/support (Gondar/region). Funding: one-off start-up funding in the form of an interest-free loan (not a grant). Reinvestment: Repayments and surpluses are channelled into a revolving fund for new projects.

Projects abroad

Baltena Spice Shop

In 2015, the two founders of A.E. visited Ethiopia for private reasons. There they made many contacts, especially with Fentahun, a tour guide in Gondar. Much has developed from this.
Zemenaya, a young woman who had completed a finance degree, could not find a job after graduation. Now she has set up a small spice shop. The shop looks fantastic and many customers give positive comments.
The shelves are made of high-quality MDF laminate wood and the room has an excellent lighting system with ceiling lights. The shop also has sufficient space for storage at the back of the front shelf. Zemenay is very happy to be able to work here.

Barbershop FY in Gondar

Fentahun had actually wanted to flee to Europe because he saw no prospects for himself at home, even though he had a university degree. We encouraged him to try his luck in Ethiopia and assured him of our support.

He opened a barbershop, which is doing very well. We are delighted to receive his regular updates.

Read Fentahun’s story here

Barbershop Opening

Barber shop upon opening
Fentahun with Customer
Modern tool