Belarusian Diaspora Initiative

The Belarusian Diaspora Initiative (BDI) is a project funded by the European Union (EU). It supports businesses with Belarusian shareholders in the EU, particularly those forced to flee Belarus due to government persecution, political opposition, human rights violations, and the regime’s backing of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

As part of a broader strategy, this project reflects on shared European values of freedom, dignity, and fairness, while standing with those striving for a democratic Belarus. Launched in January 2025, the project will run until the end of 2027, offering participants a range of activities such as capacity building, partnership development, and advocacy. The project aims to help Belarusian businesses successfully integrate into the EU market by providing essential knowledge, support networks, and resources, while fostering connections with local business ecosystems and ensuring access to critical market information.

Implementing partners:

Eurochambres

Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

ABBA – Association of Belarusian Business Abroad

Bel.biz

Polish Chamber of Commerce

Association of Lithuanian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Crafts

Kaunas Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts

Imaguru


Project activities:

  1. Capacity-building Training Workshops. 30 training sessions, combined with one-to-one consultations, are designed to equip exiled Belarusian business owners and entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge needed to operate successfully in their host countries. By focusing on participants' specific needs, the workshops ensure that business owners receive tailored support.
  2. Hosting Mentorship Programme. The Hosting Mentorship Programme connects exiled businesses with Belarusian ownership with the EU businesses who are willing to offer tailored mentorship from their experience. Belarusian participants will benefit from personalised guidance that addresses specific business challenges, helping them improve their strategies and operations. The EU business will also benefit from expanded networks, fostering long-term partnerships and collaborations.
  3. Unified Presence in Trade Fairs, Conferences, and Forums. This initiative supports Belarusian businesses in exile by facilitating their participation in four high-profile events designed to increase market visibility. These events will help businesses attract clients and partners, expand their networks, and stay informed on industry trends and best practices.
  4. Business Accelerator Programme. The Business Accelerator Programme offers a 3-month initiative supporting start-ups with training, mentorship, and networking opportunities. By providing essential skills, resources, and connections, the programme helps businesses scale and culminates in a high-impact pitching session for potential investors and partners.
  5. Institutional Visits. These 1-day visits to national government agencies, regional authorities, and business support organisations will facilitate deeper engagement with key stakeholders in the host country. By building connections with local authorities and support networks, these visits will help Belarusian businesses in exile integrate and navigate the local business environment.
  6. Business Summits and Free Belarus awards. Annual summits will facilitate high-level networking and partnerships between Belarusian stakeholders in exile and key actors, fostering collaborations that aid the growth and integration of Belarusian businesses in the EU market. The Free Belarus Business Award celebrates the achievements of Belarusian businesses in exile, increasing their visibility, credibility, and attracting potential investors and partners.
  7. Online Matchmaking. This series of three online networking and B2B matchmaking sessions connects Belarusian business owners in exile with potential partners in the EU. It offers opportunities to form new business relationships, share ideas, and explore collaboration possibilities for future activities within the BDI project.
  8. Study visits for BSOs. This study visit is designed to help Business Support Organisations (BSOs) working with Belarusian businesses in exile learn about EU policy, advocacy, and the opportunities available for EU funding. The visit will provide participants with the knowledge and resources necessary to advocate for Belarusian businesses and access EU support.

 

 

 
0