Georgian fruit tree development This project will introduce and demonstrate in Georgia and the region modern fruit tree production and modern fruit orchard operations. It wants to create new opportunities for Boomkwekerij Van Rijn-De Bruijn B.V. and other Dutch companies dealing with planting material, equipment and technology.A reference facility, the new to be established joint venture, should demonstrate the expertise of Dutch agriculture. The project location will be the Kaheti region.The main activity of the applicant, Boomkwekerij Van Rijn-De Bruijn B.V., is nursing, marketing and sales of fruit trees and commercial fruit tree production.The local partner, Phora L.L.C., is specialised in the production, marketing and trade of fruit.The third partner, Van Rijn International B.V., is participating in and managing several companies for nursing, marketing and sales of fruit trees and fruit.The partners will establish a joint venture, Georgian Fruit Development. With this project fruit production in Georgia might be revived.Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)An integrated CSR programme will be developed by the joint venture. Georgian Fruit Development respects the 10 principles of UN Global Compact principles in its strategic business plan and day-to-day work. The joint venture believes in democratic management where everyone has its rights to express their feelings and opinions. Georgian Fruit Development is entirely against any sort of corruption. Further, ISO certification and GlobalGAP certification will be acquired by the joint venture.Impact•	Employment and working conditionsAt the end of the project 121 people will be working for the joint venture.33 people will be permanent employees and 88 people will be seasonal workers. 105 employees will fulfil basic-level functions and 16 employees will fulfil medium-/high-level functions.Two years after the end of the project period 170 people will be working for the joint venture. Fifty people will be permanent employees and 110 people will be seasonal employees. 142 people will fulfil basic-level functions and 18 employees will fulfil medium-/high-level functions. All staff member will be paid at least 10% above the average wage. The fruit farmers will be guaranteed payment for their products. Good working conditions are ensured by the joint venture's CSR policy. There will be modern facilities, meals, health insurance and extra training on general subjects.•	Innovation / Transfer of knowledgeMost of the training is aimed at the own employees of the fruit tree nursery and the demonstration orchard. Also, knowledge will be transferred to the 10 outgrowers and their 45 employees.The partners state that more than 20 employees will receive training in all aspects of cultivating fruit trees, maintaining fruit orchards and operating specialised equipment. Furthermore, management and business development oriented training will be given to the management of the joint venture. Most of the skills and know-how transferred is new to the country and will enhance the knowledge level of the persons trained, allowing them to earn a decent income.•	Chain effectsThis project will have a positive effect on other apple and pear farmers.12 farmers will be trained and at least 10 will have the opportunity to sell their fruits to Georgian Fruit Development. The outgrowers will have to purchase the trees against market prices and will most likely have to buy or rent supporting equipment. The joint venture will provide and advise. Further, the joint venture will use local suppliers.•	EnvironmentThe effect on the environment will be positive. The farm will be efficient in both the use of irrigation water and the application of fertilisers. The joint venture will also advise the outgrowers on these themes. The facilities will be equipped and operated according to ISO specifications and GlobalGAP standards.•	Position of womenThe effect on the position of women will be positive. The partners consider women to be more than capable of earning their own income. A minimum of 50% of the workforce will be women. This is specified in the joint venture's overall company policy. To establish a joint venture for fruit tree nursery and high density fruit orchard development in Georgia.