Livelihood Businesses

A central aim of our work is to strengthen the Christian communities in Iraq and prevent further emigration. Emergency assistance, housing, education, vocational training, psychosocial support and other essential programs address the most urgent needs of the population. However, the most effective way to rebuild the lives of displaced and returning Christian families who suffered under the brutal ISIS invasion of 2014 is the creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Since 2019, the Beth Nahrain Organization for Women (BNOW) has been supporting individuals with specific skills, experience and motivation in establishing their own small businesses, thereby creating long-term income prospects.

By 2023, BNOW had already helped establish 16 small businesses that provide a stable source of income. To date, a total of 80 enterprises have been founded in Baghdede, Bartella, Karamles, Alqosh, Bashika and Sinjar. Among these newly created businesses are a mini-market, a nail studio, a stationery and printing shop, a café and juice bar, a laundry service, a beauty salon, a catering company, a grill restaurant, a dental practice, a nut and sweets shop, a poultry shop, a diagnostics and maintenance service, a sewing workshop and a refrigeration and cooling company.

These small businesses not only secure the livelihoods of the owners and their families — many of them have already been able to create additional jobs.

Moreover, these enterprises play a vital role in strengthening the local economy. A vibrant and livable town requires a diverse range of services, well-functioning infrastructure and a variety of businesses to meet the daily needs of its community and ensure economic stability.