“ABAD,” a public legal entity, is primarily focused on the development of entrepreneurship in the country. An “ABAD” artisan who receives support from this organization must first be an entrepreneur and then, accordingly, an artisan, farmer, or similar professional.

One of our entrepreneurial women is Aytan Yuzbashova. A graduate of the Faculty of International Relations at Baku State University, Ms. Aytan has been running her own business in several fields for a long time. For the past two years, these fields have also included trading in national souvenirs.

How did the idea come about?

“One day, I was gifted a tea set decorated in a national style. I liked it so much that I thought about building a small collection for myself. While searching for products, I turned to my acquaintances, and two artists presented me with their handmade works. During our conversation, I became aware of the challenges they faced in their work and offered my services as a manager. Thus, a small partnership and an LLC were established. Later, another female artist joined this partnership.”

How does the work process take place?

“I conduct market research and select designs and products based on its results. After providing the artists with raw materials, the products are created, and I ensure their delivery to ‘ABAD,’ other partners, or clients. Of course, as a legal entity, I also pay the artists’ monthly salaries.”

Collaboration with “ABAD”

“Since the most popular products are decorated armudu glasses and plate sets, these are the items we supply the most. I am satisfied with my sales, and it was a pleasant surprise for me that even during strict quarantine, the income from ‘ABAD’ was satisfactory.”

Future plans

“My plans are related to the development of this business. If the opportunity arises, I would like to increase the number of artists and establish a center. It would function as a workshop, a training and education hub, and a showroom.”