This publication aims to document the knowledge, experience and lessons learned from the “Capacity Building and Mentorship Programme on Entrepreneurship for Women and Youth” implemented by the UNDP’s “Aid for Trade in Central Asia” Phase IV project, as a case study that will be used for experience sharing and knowledge dissemination to ensure effectiveness of future programmes and projects of UNDP and other development partners. It is expected that this case study will be shaped as a knowledge product for publication offering new insights and analysis that advances learning or increases understanding about a development issue or a professional practice, produced for the purpose of informing or influencing decision-makers, professionals or the interested public, and leading to improved development policies, programmes, practices, products, skills and competencies.

We hope that this case study will serve to galvanise actions by the state agencies, private sector, civil society, and development partners to promote productive capacities and to provide quality and quantity of jobs, especially for women and young people living in rural areas, as the cornerstone of inclusive growth and sustainable development.