Description
HEGO is a cross-border project implemented in Greece, Moldova, Georgia and Armenia to modernize the herb sector and promote the sustainable cultivation of endemic and endangered herb plant species. The project aimed to reduce unsustainable wild harvesting by training farmers to adopt diversified herb cultivation practices and develop higher-value processed herb products. HEGO supported farming entrepreneurship, improved product quality, facilitated research-to-business partnerships and strengthened international trade connections.
Technology
HEGO utilized web-based tools including an e-learning platform hosted by Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (https://sites.google.com/gapps.auth.gr/hego/home) and an e-business portal hosted by ODA Moldova (https://hego-business.oda.md/) to support farmer training, market access and cross-border business networking. The digital components facilitated knowledge transfer, market information sharing and capacity building across project countries.
Target
The project targeted herb farmers, rural communities, small and medium-sized herb enterprises, processors, and agribusiness startups. HEGO also supported researchers, academic institutions, and private companies aiming to enhance the value of endemic herb species and expand into food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical markets.
Business model
HEGO was financed under the European Union’s Black Sea Basin Programme and operated as a donor-funded project. All training, networking and e-platform resources were provided free of charge to beneficiaries in the four participating countries.
Impact
HEGO contributed to the modernization of herb production and processing by training farmers to adopt sustainable cultivation practices, building cross-border business linkages, and establishing digital platforms for learning and enterprise networking.
Partners
European Union; Black Sea Basin Programme; Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH); Organization for Entrepreneurship Development Moldova (ODA);
Four Betters
Better production
Better nutrition
Better environment
Better life
