Designed specifically for fashion, accessories, uniforms, jewelry, and textile-related SMEs looking to step into the EU market, the program was organized by Visionest Institute, led by CEO Anu-Mall Naarits, with the support of key partners.
The day began with heartfelt and motivating words from Anu-Mall Naarits, who welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of building sustainable brands that can compete globally. Following her, Giorgi Tsimintia, Project Manager of the “Inclusive Access to Markets” initiative at the United Nations Development Programme in Georgia, spoke about the vital role Georgian SMEs play in shaping the country’s economy and the exciting opportunities for international collaboration. Their remarks set an encouraging tone, making participants feel seen, inspired, and ready to take on new challenges.
The morning sessions offered a deep dive into sustainability trends and EU requirements, helping participants understand what’s changing in the fashion and creative sectors and why it matters. Topics ranged from circular economy and material innovation to textile waste reduction and extended producer responsibility. The training also provided a detailed overview of EU regulations, including Eco-design, the PPWR, Digital Product Passport, and the Green Claims Directive, equipping SMEs with knowledge essential for entering European markets.
Guiding the practical aspects of the training was Kaie Kaas Ojavere, a seasoned expert with over 20 years of experience in international fashion markets. Kaie has led product development, production, and brand scaling across Europe and now heads KIUD, an Estonia-based company transforming textile waste into sustainable packaging solutions for clients in France, Germany, and Scandinavia. Her guidance helped participants see how sustainability can be applied creatively and strategically in their own businesses.
The event brought together more than 20 companies, most of them alumni of Visionest Institute, alongside several new participants, reflecting the continuous growth of this professional network. This expanding community is a vital part of Georgia’s development, fostering collaboration, innovation, and readiness to compete on international platforms.
By the end of the day, participants left feeling inspired, equipped with practical tools to define their sustainability approach, and ready to communicate their brand message with confidence to EU buyers. With two more days of training ahead, Georgian SMEs are taking meaningful steps toward building sustainable, globally competitive brands that reflect their creativity, vision, and commitment to innovation.
This initiative, funded by the European Union and implemented by Visionest Institute, a contractor of the Estonian Centre for International Development, with support from UNDP Georgia, aims to boost SMEs’ exports to the EU and European markets through participation in international trade fairs and B2B events.
📸 Visionest Institute / Mariam Paradas Photography