Lebanon’s dire economic crisis has impacted the poorest areas in Lebanon such as the Akkar District where the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) has recently launched an Early Recovery and Livelihood Business Development project. Because of the absence of adequate government policies to develop rural areas in the country, people residing in the area have limited livelihood options which have forced them into elevated levels of poverty and food insecurity.

For this reason, the Middle East Council of Churches, supported by Kerk in Actie, decided to intervene in this particular area by supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in an effort to drive economic growth and create more job opportunities. Through Business Development, which is a strategic priority of MECC’s Diakonia and Social Service Department, the Council aims to provide various kinds of support which can encompass training, capacity building, mentoring, and access to resources, enabling the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) to improve their business practices, operational efficiency, and product/service quality.

In terms of the enterprises the MECC targeted, there was no shortage of know-how or expertise, yet owners had financial difficulties in purchase needed equipment and tools to kick start their businesses. After carefully studying the feasibility of the projects they were not only assessed according to needs but also according to sustainability and Return On investment (ROI).

From this point on, five dimensions were selected based on criteria which should prove business growth and job creation, increased innovation and entrepreneurship, enhanced resilience and sustainability, as well as community inclusion/ shared future.

A High School Kitchen supported with specific equipment to increase production. The school caters to students and people residing close to its proximity. The school also caters to People with special needs which are eventually hired to work at the kitchen or even outside the school. A farm supported with three cows which will significantly increase its dairy production within less than a year. A pastry shop with an adequate oven enabling it to meet its required production. A green house with asparagus crops, and a winery with brewery and wine tanks. The school kitchen, the farm, and pastry shop have received the assistance from MECC. As for the Green House and Winery, the needed equipment is on their way to these respective businesses.

By supporting such Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), particularly those in underserved regions such Akkar, these initiatives stimulate economic growth, reduce regional inequalities, and facilitate inclusive development. Moreover, the project that the Middle East Council of Churches is implementing, will pave the way for future related value chain projects.