ALMERE/NIJKERK – Eastern Europe lacks a stimulating business climate that hinders entrepreneurs in small and medium-sized businesses from developing their businesses. Getting loans is also complex as well as very costly. In addition, specific knowledge about exports, for example, is not accessible to smaller entrepreneurs. These factors prevent inherently successful companies from growing into solid SMEs. The foundations Dorcas and Come Over and Help want to offer entrepreneurs a new perspective for growth through investment company SharInvest, which they jointly founded.
SharInvest connects investors in the Netherlands to entrepreneurs in Eastern Europe. These are not startups but established companies with growth potential. In this growth, a healthy financial return and social impact go hand in hand. To qualify for an investment from SharInvest, businesses must demonstrate a positive contribution to the local community. For example, by creating employment opportunities for people with fewer job prospects. Investors in the Netherlands offer knowledge and access to their network to Eastern European entrepreneurs in addition to their financial input.
SharInvest offers Dutch investors a return consisting of social impact on local communities and a modest financial return. Initiators Dorcas and Come Over and Help have both been active in Eastern Europe for decades and have extensive knowledge of the local (entrepreneurial) culture and social structure. The two foundations also have a large network and contacts with local churches, community organizations and governments.
The creation of SharInvest involves a number of Dutch entrepreneurs. In the coming years, the investment company aims to grow significantly in order to provide a positive impetus to local societies and increase the self-reliance of individuals. Investing in SharInvest can start from €100,000.
