International Community Development Award
“Accelerating Youth Empowerment through Entrepreneurship” Wins International Community Development Award
Yerevan, Armenia; Tbilisi, Georgia – The “Accelerating Youth Empowerment through Entrepreneurship” program, funded by the U.S. Embassies in Georgia and Armenia, implemented by American Councils Armenia and Georgia in partnership with the implemented by American Councils Armenia and Georgia in partnership with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln 4-H/Extension and the NCCE (Network of Centers for Civic Engagement) in Georgia, and USG Alumni Armenia has been awarded the International Community Development Award by the U.S. Community Development Society. This prestigious recognition honors the program’s outstanding contribution to fostering entrepreneurship, economic growth, and sustainable community development among 10- to 14-year-old youth in Armenia and Georgia.
Collage of photos from ESI Delivery in Armenia
The program, designed to empower youth through entrepreneurial training and positive youth development (PYD), utilized the Nebraska 4-H/Extension Curriculum, Entrepreneurship Investigation (ESI), to guide participants through launching their own ventures. By providing the tools and resources needed to transform ideas into action, the initiative has created new economic opportunities for the next generation of leaders.
“This award is a testament to the creativity and resilience of the youth leaders and young entrepreneurs in Armenia and Georgia, who have shown that with the right support, they can drive positive change in their communities,” said Dagen Valentine, American Councils-Armenia Country Director. “We are honored to receive this recognition from the Community Development Society and remain committed to empowering youth through entrepreneurship.”
The Community Development Society’s International Community Development Award is given annually to initiatives that demonstrate exemplary international collaboration and make a lasting impact on communities around the world. The award ceremony took place at Omaha, Nebraska on July 14-17, where representatives from the program shared insights into its success and future plans for expanding its reach.
Implementation locations and Alumni's USG Program
About the “Accelerating Youth Empowerment through Entrepreneurship” Program
The program focuses on equipping 10- to 14-year-old youth with entrepreneurial skills using the Nebraska 4-H Curriculum Entrepreneurship Investigation (ESI) to create solutions for community needs, fostering sustainable development in Armenia and Georgia. It has supported hundreds of young entrepreneurs in launching successful ventures, promoting economic resilience, and enhancing community engagement.
About American Councils
American Councils for International Education is a leader in international education, academic exchange, and overseas language immersion. The organization fosters cross-cultural understanding and empowers individuals through educational opportunities that span more than 85 countries.
About University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension is committed to providing research-based education and outreach to communities, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through its programs. With a focus on empowering individuals and strengthening communities, UNL Extension is dedicated to supporting sustainable development initiatives both locally and internationally.
About NCCE (Network of Centers for Civic Engagement)
The NCCE in Georgia works to promote civic education and engagement, fostering leadership and innovation through its network of centers. By creating platforms for active participation and entrepreneurship, NCCE plays a vital role in empowering communities and supporting sustainable development.
About USG Alumni Armenia
USG Alumni in Armenia are past participants of U.S. Government-sponsored exchange programs who have returned to Armenia to make a positive impact on their communities. As part of the Accelerating Youth Empowerment through Entrepreneurship program, USG alumni served as mentors and trainers, leveraging their expertise to guide young participants through the entrepreneurial process. Their involvement has been instrumental in building the capacity of local youth, promoting community development, and strengthening cross-cultural ties.
Contact Information:
Anush Arsenyan
USG Alumni Project Coordinator
alumni.am@americancouncils.org
+374 (10) 54-40-12
Armenia.americancouncils.org/usg-alumni-en
The Project was administered by American Councils for International Education in Armenia, Georgia, and by NCCE (Network of Centers for Civic Engagement) and funded by the US Embassies in Armenia and Georgia. The opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed herein are those of the Author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the Department of State.