The bread factory is one of the four pilot social enterprises, established with the support of the Equal Opportunities project. To make the pilot intervention a success, UNDP teamed up with the “Istiqbolli Avlod” youth centre, which is in charge of coordinating and overseeing activities, including selection of beneficiaries to be employed and the needed help to women starting work at the factory. The “Lochin” enterprise will help the bread bakery to manage all business aspects, including marketing and distribution, and effective use of profits.

Social enterprises give all the preconditions to earn a decent living, but the business isn't used as a vehicle for building personal wealth because the bulk of profits are reinvested into social aims. “I’m glad to be part of this initiative; this has greatly helped my family and I’m learning new skills” – said Mohigul Abdieva, smiling to us. “Social enterprise leaders are passionate about achieving social goals and this motivates them as much, if not more, than the challenge of running a profitable business in a competitive market” – added Dinara Alimdjanova, Project Manager of the Equal Opportunities project.

The Equal Opportunities project is supported by UNDP in Uzbekistan to address the impact of the global financial crisis, with a great number of migrants returning and in need of stable jobs and security. The project works to improve the coordination and monitoring of employment policies, legislation, and their gender impact. Also the project seeks new ways of generating income in rural areas of the country giving equal opportunities for both men and women.

Thanks to project efforts now more than 100 people in Karakalpakstan, Jizzakh and Ferghana regions will have access to decent working conditions and income sources giving individuals an opportunity to fully participate in the economic, social, and political life of the society.