In northern Syria, young innovators are demonstrating how creativity and entrepreneurship can overcome economic hardship. Through the joint efforts of SCLS, PFC Ventures, and Invest in Syria, two pioneering initiatives were launched between 2020 and 2024, one in agriculture and the other in art and creative industries, to empower youth, generate sustainable income, and promote local potential in international markets.

Challenges

Syrian youth faced multiple barriers that hinder their participation in sustainable economic growth:

Limited access to resources and funding.

Lack of innovative investment models in both agriculture and art.

Insufficient platforms to market local talent or high-value products internationally.

Need for long-term employment opportunities that contribute to community stability.

Solutions

To address these challenges, the implementing partners designed three complementary interventions:

– Saffron Cultivation Project – Mare Northern Syria

A young agricultural engineering student proposed cultivating saffron, one of the world’s most profitable crops.

SCLS conducted a feasibility study and connected the innovator with PFC Ventures and Invest in Syria to secure funding.

The project implemented modern agricultural methods, from land preparation and bulb selection to expert technical supervision.

SCLS linked the initiative with local and regional marketing channels to ensure long-term sustainability.

– Fun Project – Permanent Art Exhibition in Azaz

In response to the lack of platforms supporting young Syrian artists, SCLS launched a creative hub offering workspace, training, and logistical support.

The project provided opportunities for young men and women to produce and export artworks, creating income and professional exposure.

SCLS, with support from PFC Ventures and Invest in Syria, acted as a mediator between funders and artists to ensure fair distribution of resources and efficient management.

-Delivery App in Azaz

SCLS contributed to the establishment of “Mevcut”, a local delivery App in Azaz.

The initiative aims to empower youth through digital entrepreneurship, creating job opportunities in logistics, customer service, and technology.

By supporting innovative tech-based business models, the project enhances local service accessibility and promotes sustainable digital employment.

Results & Impact

• Economic Empowerment: Both projects created sustainable income opportunities for youth in agriculture and the arts.

Innovation and Replicability: The saffron cultivation proved viable in local soil and climate, establishing a scalable investment model for high-value crops.

• Cultural Promotion: The Fun Project successfully introduced Syrian art to international markets, strengthening cultural identity and resilience.

• Partnership Synergy: Collaboration between SCLS, PFC Ventures, and Invest in Syria ensured that innovative ideas were transformed into viable enterprises.

• Community Stability: By engaging youth in productive, income-generating activities, the initiatives contributed to local stability and social cohesion.