State Throws 400 Million Dinars at Family Businesses – Lifeline or Waste of Money?
Looks like Serbia hasn’t forgotten its “most valuable people” – family businesses! And this love is worth a whopping 400 million dinars. Yes, you read that right – 400 million! For what? For buying equipment, renovating spaces, digitalizing, and boosting energy efficiency. All to give 85 family companies from 23 districts a helping hand.
Family Businesses – More Than Just Business
These aren’t just businesses. They’re homes where three generations learn patience, trust, and investing in the future. Picture this: grandma embroidering, granddaughter designing a new pattern. It’s not just work; it’s passing down soul and tradition. And the government recognizes this, handing out non-refundable funds to keep the legacy alive.
A Billion for Bees and Wheat Subsidies
But wait, there’s more! Over a billion dinars have been allocated for beekeeping subsidies, and soon the government will start buying wheat from state reserves. The state is also helping farmers modernize their facilities. All in all, Serbia wants to be a country where family and work go hand in hand.
Economy on the Rise – But For Whom?
Serbia’s GDP is growing at 3.9%, with access to a market of 2.8 billion consumers. New factories are opening, exports are rising, and the economy is becoming more resilient. But behind all this are people – people like you, says Minister Andrijana Mesarović. Is this enough for family businesses to tackle their challenges, or is it just another political story?
Chinese Investors and Serbian Soaps
At a recent meeting with Chinese leaders, talks were held about connecting Serbian family companies to the Chinese market. Imagine – soaps from Subotica, honey from Svilajnac, embroidery from Ivanjica, and tools from Čačak reaching a market of a billion people! This isn’t a dream; it’s real policy. But will it really work or just remain a nice story?
Who Are the Lucky Winners?
Among the winners are companies from Leskovac, Bukovče, Belgrade, Vršac, and other places. For example, the winery Podrum Ačanski from Banoštor received funds to improve grape processing. Jelena Lalović invites young people to join the world of winemaking. But will the youth stay in Serbia to continue the tradition or seek fortune elsewhere?
Conclusion – Help or Just a Show?
The state is pouring huge money into family businesses, and that’s nice to see. But is it enough? Is this just a show for the public or real support? Family businesses are the foundation of a new economic culture, but do they need more help or is it time to stand on their own feet?