The DAHIL B2B Networking & Closing Event, a collaborative effort between the European Union and SPARK, unfolded on November 16, 2023, at Ankara Point Hotel. This event marked the culmination of the DAHIL project, empowering Syrian refugees and vulnerable Turkish by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), fostering economic growth and creating employment opportunities in southeastern Türkiye over the past two years.

The DAHIL project has provided sustainable support to SMEs in southeast Türkiye with 799 individuals receiving Findex and business skills training, the establishment of 40 new businesses, and the participation of 268 individuals in trade shows and competitions. Additionally, the project organised 18 training sessions for chamber staff, six networking events, and established four Syrian HelpDesk support centres. With the impact of the devastating earthquakes that struck the region in February this year, the DAHIL project also pivoted to support many of those affected.

The closing event gathered stakeholders, including Chambers of Commerce, local businesses, and project partners, to reflect on the outcomes and future prospects of DAHIL. During opening speeches, attendees heard from Laurent Guirkinger, Head of Section, Human and Social Development, EU Delegation to Türkiye and Quentin Tayfun Levet, SPARK’s Regional Programme Director for the Middle East. Quentin recounted some illustrative stories of the transformative impact of DAHIL. Specifically he mentioned Rahaf Shami, a Syrian woman entrepreneur that built her business from scratch. “Rahaf’s story is a good example of our achievements under the DAHIL project, turning challenges into opportunity and creating a ripple effect of empowerment”, said Quentin.

A panel discussion titled ‘Supporting Local SMEs in the Post-Earthquake Era’ featured representatives from Turkish Chambers of Commerce as well as SMEs from the region. The discussion underlined the significance of collaboration in the region’s recovery and the need for urgent SME support. The event also featured an SME Space, showcasing the some of the 40 supported SMEs, a testament to the tangible impact on the local economy.

The highlight of the day was the B2B Networking session, where SMEs had the opportunity to showcase their businesses and connect with potential partners and investors. Such invaluable opportunities facilitate new collaborations but also serve as a platform for showcasing the skills and resilience of entrepreneurs.

Nikolaus Meyer-Landrut, head of the EU Delegation to Türkiye, expressed satisfaction with DAHIL’s outcomes, emphasising its role in rebuilding livelihoods. “I am glad that people, communities and companies in the regions affected by the February earthquakes can benefit from EU-funded projects like DAHIL, helping to rebuild their livelihoods and businesses.” he said.

The event concluded with a networking lunch, providing a casual setting for participants to continue discussions, exchange contacts, and build on the connections established during the B2B Networking session.

As SPARK continues its mission to support job creation and entrepreneurship in Türkiye, the success of the DAHIL project serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the positive change that can be achieved through strategic partnerships and focused interventions.