Social entrepreneurs in Almaty can acquire non-residential premises at below-market prices. This opportunity is provided by the Social-Entrepreneurial Corporation Almaty, according to NUR.KZ.
In Almaty, there is an annual increase in rental prices for business premises. On average, the cost can range from 5,000 to 25,000 tenge per square meter, which significantly raises the expenses for startups in the early stages, especially in the field of social entrepreneurship.
Since the beginning of 2022, the term "social entrepreneurship" has been legally established for businesses focused on addressing social issues. This status is granted to individual entrepreneurs and legal entities that provide employment for individuals from vulnerable populations, produce goods, or offer products and services for such groups.
Today, to support social entrepreneurship in the southern capital, the Social-Entrepreneurial Corporation (SEC) Almaty, a key regional development institution, conducts competitions where non-residential premises are offered for rent on preferential terms.
The rental cost for these properties is set at 0.1 MCI, or 369 tenge per square meter (with 1 MCI being 3,692 tenge in 2024), which is significantly lower than the market rate.
One of the beneficiaries of such premises is individual entrepreneur Saltanat Baibatyrova. Saltanat specializes in sewing children's dresses, national costumes, and outfits for photo sessions. For a long time, she worked from home, combining this activity with caring for her special child, who has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Her desire to create beautiful and traditional garments became a source of inspiration, turning her passion into a powerful source of strength and ideas. In 2022, she decided to launch a full-scale production.
"Renting commercial property in Almaty is very expensive; not everyone can afford it. When I learned that the SEC supports social initiatives, I decided to try my luck. I quickly gathered all the documents and submitted my project for review by the competition committee," says Saltanat.
One of the key aspects of Saltanat’s project was the creation of jobs for socially vulnerable groups. She understood that she was not only aiming to realize her own production but also to contribute to improving the lives of those facing difficulties in finding employment. This focus on social impact played a significant role in the approval of her project.
"I am currently paying 48,000 tenge per month for 125 square meters in the Auezov district. This is a very good price for a megacity. I am pleased that my social project is running successfully. Today, we produce about 50 outfits each month. I also conduct training workshops for those interested in sewing. I am very grateful to the SEC for their support!" shared Saltanat Baibatyrova.
According to the SEC's terms, social entrepreneurs receive the premises on a rental basis for up to 3 years, with the possibility of extension. Additionally, the project includes a grace period of up to 2 months during which no rent payments are required. The property is provided in its current condition, and tenants can undertake renovation work and establish contracts with utility services as needed.
"Currently, the SEC supports 28 social projects in Almaty. These are primarily sewing production, educational services, training courses for socially vulnerable groups, and development centers for children with disabilities," notes Ulan Oserbaev, Director of the Project Management Department at the SEC "Almaty."
"As soon as we have available premises, we announce a competition. Any entrepreneur looking to implement a socially oriented project can apply. Priority is given to projects that support inclusive environments and education for children, adults, seniors, parents and guardians of children with disabilities, large families, as well as the creative industry and healthcare sector," said Ulan Oserbaev. The SEC is holding a competition for the rental of three premises in the Medeu district until August 16th. For more details, please check here.