Dear Partners,

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to you for your dedication and unwavering efforts in collaboration with the GRETA project, co-financed by the European Union, Sweden, and Austria.

Since 2019, the joint efforts of various stakeholders, substantial financial support from the EU, Sweden, and Austria, along with coordination with several international and local organisations, have significantly impacted the lives of many people in the eight municipalities (Mestia, Lentekhi, Tsageri, Oni, Ambrolauri, Sachkhere, Tchiatura, Tkibuli) of the mountainous region of Georgia.

Through extensive and dedicated work, we have achieved several significant milestones, including harmonising of organic agriculture legislation in line with the new EU regulations, strategic visions in the tourism sector, and the strengthening of small entrepreneurs and various organisations. Additionally, our endeavours have led to an increase in knowledge about international organic production standards, the creation of innovative tourism products, and the adoption of modern business management techniques among small entrepreneurs. Notably, Georgian products have proudly made their mark on international markets. The project has thus facilitated inclusive development, providing essential resources and access to them.

The joint initiative of the EU, Sweden, and Austria through the GRETA project has emerged as a pivotal force driving the development and transformation of highland regions. Over the course of four years, the project has achieved several significant milestones, some of which include:

• Harmonisation of Georgian legislation with the updated organic regulations of the European Union.
• Establishment of a long-term tourism development plan for the Svaneti region.
• Successful functioning of DMO - destination management organization in the Svaneti region: www.svaneti.org.
• Successful completion of the first regional brand creation in Georgia with the concept - "Georgia's Hidden Treasure" for Svaneti.
• The thriving operation of 68 small and medium entrepreneurs in the mountainous region of Georgia.
• Participation of about 50 small and medium entrepreneurs in international exhibitions, leading to successful business connections and the presentation of Georgian organic products.
• Strengthening positioning of the Svaneti region into the world tourism map through participation in international exhibitions and the hosting of international winter and summer festivals.
• Establishment and successful functioning of tea and wine associations.
• Creation of 9 innovative tourism products.
• Signing of 15 memoranda of future cooperation between small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in the local market.
• Empowerment of more than 300 small and medium-sized entrepreneurs from the mountainous regions of Georgia through training in marketing, branding, and other commercial activity management skills.
• Development of 20 professional and certified mountain climbers in Georgia, meeting international standards.
• Training of approximately 30 private and public business representatives in the specifics of bio-production.

To celebrate these and other accomplishments, an event summarising the project's results, titled "Journey To New Heights!" will take place in Mestia on October 18. The event aims to bring all interested parties together to envision the future development of the mentioned regions collectively.

For those who couldn't make it to the event, the project team, in collaboration with the partner initiative group, will be sharing valuable details about the event in the coming days.

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Project GRETA | "Green Economy: Sustainable Mountain Tourism and Organic Agriculture" is implemented by the Austria Development Agency in Georgia with the support of the European Union, Austria, and Sweden. The project aims to facilitate improving the business environment and creating new income opportunities in two important sectors of the Georgian economy, mountain tourism and organic agriculture.

This material has been produced with the assistance of the European Union, Sweden, and Austria, within the framework of the GRETA project. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union, Sweden, or Austria.