The programme supports creative teams that, by means of art and cultural activities, can improve the city environment, develop local communities, solve social problems and create financially independent solutions, thus promoting economic growth.
Project applicants can apply for a grant up to 5,000 lats (about 7,000 euro), and also get advice on financial issues. Another project, DUKA, enforced by the Riga City Council and SEB, can help the applicants find premises suitable for their activities. Entrepreneurs are offered empty commercial space at no charge except the cost for utilities such as water and electricity.
Kārlis Danēvičs, head of Credit department at SEB Latvia says that “Brigāde” is a very significant project for SEB Latvia and the main objective is to increase the knowledge of financial issues among entrepreneurs.
“When starting a business, it is important to understand the financial cash flow of the company, so that the financing discussion becomes a professional conversation between the bank and the entrepreneur, where both parties are aware of possible risks. Also, the possibility to receive a grant makes a big difference for small and newly started companies,” says Danēvičs.
The programme is financed by the Soros Foundation Latvia from the George Soros established Emergency Fund whose target is to minimize the consequences of crisis in 20 Eastern European and Middle Eastern countries.
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