On September 16, 2025, DevelopWay had the privilege of participating in the IC Armenia event “Attract Finance Through Alternative Investment Tools: What You Need to Know”, held at the Congress Hotel in Yerevan. The event brought together over 100 startups and technology companies to explore innovative ways of accessing finance and to learn about the latest reforms in Armenia’s investment landscape.
A Milestone for Armenia’s Startup Ecosystem
During the event, the expert team from the EBRD Investment Council in Armenia presented key reforms designed to make alternative financing more accessible. These reforms were introduced in close cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and the Central Bank of Armenia, with the support of the UK Government’s Good Governance Fund.
The updated legal frameworks now open the door for Armenian startups to raise early-stage capital through globally recognized tools such as:
Convertible Notes (convertible debt)
SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) contracts
Crowdfunding platforms
Corporate donations to educational institutions
As noted by Georgi Akhalkatsi, Head of EBRD Armenia, these reforms address one of the greatest challenges facing startups — access to finance. By introducing new tools, Armenia is creating a more supportive investment environment that empowers entrepreneurs, reduces financial barriers, and connects the economy with international best practices.
Practical Insights and Hands-On Learning
The event went beyond theory, offering practical advice and real-world applications of these tools. Highlights included:
A presentation by Samson Avetian, CEO of eqwefy.com, Armenia’s first crowdfunding investment platform, showcasing how even small contributions can support high-potential startups.
A simulation game led by Vladimir Shatverov, CEO of 2B Business Support Foundation, demonstrating how equity distribution works in alternative investment scenarios.
A discussion led by legal experts from the Enterprise Incubator Foundation on upcoming legislative changes in the high-tech sector.
These sessions provided participants with valuable insights on how to apply investment instruments effectively in practice.
DevelopWay’s Takeaway
For DevelopWay CJSC, this event was not only an opportunity to gain knowledge but also to connect with fellow innovators, investors, and ecosystem builders. We deeply value the practical tips, guidance, and collaborative spirit shared by all contributors.
We believe these reforms will significantly boost the Armenian startup ecosystem by enabling more companies to access growth capital, scale their businesses, and compete globally.
Looking Ahead
We thank IC Armenia, the EBRD Investment Council, government partners, and international contributors for organizing such a high-impact event. DevelopWay is proud to be part of Armenia’s innovation ecosystem and looks forward to engaging further with alternative investment opportunities.
