Seto Land Recieves Subsidies
Minister of Regional Affairs Siim Kiisler confirmed the 2011 development program for the Setos, the natives of southeastern Estonia, allocating 316,000 euros to support 26 projects in the region.
The funding will go to nonprofit handicraft organizations, summer fairs, and other projects aimed at making the region more attractive to tourists.
Student-run companies are another recipient. "We need to find solutions in order for young people to be able to work near their homes," said Kiisler. One option to boost economic activity and to slow the migration from rural areas to the city is to help people establish personal businesses, he said.
The development program was drawn up in 2006 and since then the ministry has supported 155 Seto projects.
Ingrid Teesalu