More and more Moldovan farmers decide to start businesses with lavender, as is the case of Nicolae Chelaru from Pelinia, Drochia district. The lavender oil is extremely appreciated abroad, as cosmetics makers offer big money for a high-quality product.

Nicolae Chelaru planted a hectare of lavender a year ago. Now he plans to expand the surface tenfold. He intends to harvest 35 liters of oil in three years, which may be sold at $80 per liter.

Last year, the farmer applied for the grant contest of the Businesspeople Association from Moldova. He got a prize of 50,000 Moldovan lei ($2,500).

Next week, the Businesspeople Association from Moldova kicks off the second financing contest, aimed at young entrepreneurs from rural localities.

"We want to select five grantees to give them by 50,000 lei, and then we’ll provide them with consulting and training. The people from villages will have privileges," said the executive manager of the Association, Olesea Munteanu.

The applications are expected till August 19.