Minister Mesarović Hands Out Millions to Family Businesses – Salvation or Just Another Political Show?
Today, at the Palace of Serbia, Minister of Economy Adriana Mesarović handed out 80 decisions awarding non-refundable funds to family businesses from 23 districts across Serbia. A total of two million euros were allocated, representing a whopping 50% of the total investments in these projects. Is this truly a lifeline for small businesses, or just another political spectacle?
Who’s Getting the Money and Why?
This grant focuses on companies where multiple family members work, considering them the backbone of the domestic economy. The funds can be used for adapting business premises, purchasing equipment and machinery, working capital, digitalization, and energy efficiency. Sounds like a golden opportunity for growth, but will it really help small businesses or just line some pockets?
Real-Life Examples
Mesarović mentioned a few family firms that received funding: the Jović family from Arilje is investing in new knitting machines, in Leskovac a cold storage facility is expanding, the Marković brothers from Požega are improving energy efficiency, and in Subotica a soap-making workshop is introducing eco-friendly packaging. It all sounds like a success story, but how many of these examples are truly thriving, and will the money be used wisely?
The Political Backdrop
The program was initiated by former Prime Minister Vučević, and the minister proudly praised the entrepreneurs who applied. But is this just another way to score political points at taxpayers’ expense? Will this aid be sustainable and long-term, or just another short-lived project destined to be forgotten?
What Do the Experts Say?
Economists warn that non-refundable funds can be helpful, but only if part of a broader development strategy and with proper oversight. Without that, there’s a risk the money will be wasted on inefficient projects or even misused.
The Bottom Line
Awarding two million euros to 80 family businesses sounds like great news, but the real questions remain: how much will this money actually help small businesses? Is this the start of a new economic culture or just another political show? While we wait for answers, maybe it’s time to ask – who really benefits from these programs?
So, what do you think? Are these measures genuinely helping small businesses, or just a way for politicians to show off? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s on board and who’s calling out this so-called “economic revolution”!
