News http://tiof.am ru Mon, 11 May 2026 14:00:08 +0300 TIOF Visit to the "Chibukhchyan" Fashion School http://tiof.am/tpost/p2hnnu2871-tiof-visit-to-the-chibukhchyan-fashion-s http://tiof.am/tpost/p2hnnu2871-tiof-visit-to-the-chibukhchyan-fashion-s?amp=true Mon, 27 Oct 2025 20:50:00 +0300

TIOF Visit to the "Chibukhchyan" Fashion School

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation (TIOF) has launched a series of study tours to textile manufacturing units and educational institutions, alongside organized meetings with industry designers. These engagements are aimed at exploring sector opportunities, fostering professional networking, and identifying new avenues for collaboration.

As part of this ongoing initiative, the TIOF team visited the "Chibukhchyan" Fashion School to explore its educational programs and the creative environment where the professional vision of a new generation of designers is being shaped.

During the visit, the school presented its teaching methodologies, program structures, and initiatives designed to enhance students' practical skills. The parties discussed potential collaboration pathways focused on developing professional capacities within the textile and fashion sectors, as well as strengthening the link between education and industry.

TIOF views cooperation with educational institutions as a fundamental pillar of the industry's sustainable development. Such initiatives provide a platform where ideas are transformed into tangible results, empowering young professionals to emerge as future industry leaders.
]]> Visit to the "Space 59" Apparel Training Center http://tiof.am/tpost/6m2zju8k31-visit-to-the-space-59-apparel-training-c http://tiof.am/tpost/6m2zju8k31-visit-to-the-space-59-apparel-training-c?amp=true Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:51:00 +0300

Visit to the "Space 59" Apparel Training Center

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team has launched a new phase dedicated to shaping development programs and strategic initiatives for 2026.

During this stage, TIOF is identifying strategic directions aimed at stimulating growth, enhancing competitiveness, and reinforcing the long-term development of Armenia’s textile sector. Special emphasis is placed on the synergy between education, production, and public-private partnerships (PPP) as the core drivers of industry advancement.

A recent working meeting was held at the Space 59 creative platform, where core directions for upcoming programs and potential collaboration opportunities were discussed.

TIOF remains committed to its active role in designing and implementing initiatives for sector development. Detailed information regarding these programs and the upcoming steps will be presented in the near future.
]]> TIOF Visit to "Maronyan" Fashion Studio http://tiof.am/tpost/8e54xymba1-tiof-visit-to-maronyan-fashion-studio http://tiof.am/tpost/8e54xymba1-tiof-visit-to-maronyan-fashion-studio?amp=true Thu, 30 Oct 2025 20:52:00 +0300

TIOF Visit to "Maronyan" Fashion Studio

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team, led by Director Erik Minasyan, continues its active sector research and exploration of collaboration opportunities by visiting leading Armenian fashion platforms. As part of this initiative, a visit was paid to the "Maronyan" Fashion Studio, where the team met with its founder, Hripsime Maronyan.

During the visit, the parties discussed various collaboration formats aimed at developing human capital within the textile and fashion sectors, as well as the dissemination of new ideas and specialized knowledge. Special emphasis was placed on strengthening the link between education and production as an essential prerequisite for the sector's sustainable development.

TIOF values such partnerships as a vital platform for generating innovative solutions, stimulating creative thinking, and fostering comprehensive industry development.

The Foundation remains committed to uniting sector stakeholders and contributing to the formation of a new, competitive, and modern image for Armenia’s textile industry.
]]> TIOF Visit to "KIVERA NAYNOMIS" Workshop and Boutique http://tiof.am/tpost/7y5pejgan1-tiof-visit-to-kivera-naynomis-workshop-a http://tiof.am/tpost/7y5pejgan1-tiof-visit-to-kivera-naynomis-workshop-a?amp=true Wed, 05 Nov 2025 20:52:00 +0300

TIOF Visit to "KIVERA NAYNOMIS" Workshop and Boutique

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation (TIOF) team, led by Director Erik Minasyan, visited the Kivera Naynomis brand at their invitation to gain deeper insight into the company’s operations and development history.

During the visit, the Foundation team met with the brand’s founder, Arevik Simonyan, who presented her creative journey, the history of the brand’s formation, and its key stages of evolution. Her approach is characterized by deep commitment, creative thinking, and a steadfast dedication to value-driven work.

Officially launched in May 2005, Kivera Naynomis is renowned for its unique aesthetic, emphasizing feminine, elegant, luxurious, and bold design solutions that maintain their relevance across time.

The meeting provided an opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the experiences of prominent brands within the Armenian fashion sector and highlighted the critical importance of creativity and a personalized approach in industry development.

TIOF values such visits as essential platforms for knowledge exchange, inspiration, and the cultivation of new collaboration opportunities.
]]> Towards Effective Partnerships: TIOF Visit to "Atex" http://tiof.am/tpost/lmm6gpzrz1-towards-effective-partnerships-tiof-visi http://tiof.am/tpost/lmm6gpzrz1-towards-effective-partnerships-tiof-visi?amp=true Fri, 07 Nov 2025 20:53:00 +0300

Towards Effective Partnerships: TIOF Visit to "Atex"

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team visited the "Atex" Fashion Center to gain insight into its operations and explore potential collaboration opportunities.

As part of the visit, TIOF acting director Erik Minasyan met with the director of the "Atex" Fashion Center, Karina Dnoyan. During the meeting, a detailed presentation was given regarding the center’s history, its developmental journey, and its significant contribution to Armenia’s textile and fashion sectors.

The "Atex" Fashion Center is one of the industry's leading institutions, successfully integrating garment design, production, and modeling agency operations. The center is also renowned for its designer training programs, bespoke tailoring services, and the organization of high-profile fashion shows, all of which contribute to the growth and global visibility of Armenian design.

During the discussion, both parties addressed cooperation opportunities in the fields of education, production, and exports, highlighting the vital role of innovative approaches and joint initiatives in driving industry progress.

The TIOF team highly commended the activities of the "Atex" Fashion Center and expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and the productive dialogue.

I have prepared the professional translations for this news update. Since Tumo Studios is an internationally recognized brand with a specific educational model, I have used terminology that aligns with their global identity (e.g., "analog production," "ateliers").
]]> TIOF Explores Tumo Studios http://tiof.am/tpost/josdfpb2r1-tiof-explores-tumo-studios http://tiof.am/tpost/josdfpb2r1-tiof-explores-tumo-studios?amp=true Sat, 15 Nov 2025 20:53:00 +0300

TIOF Explores Tumo Studios

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team visited Tumo Studios to explore its unique creative educational environment, where young talents engage in hands-on work with materials, design, craftsmanship, and innovation.

During the visit, the team observed how students explore and apply analog production techniques to create high-quality, functional, and contemporary products. Such environments play a crucial role in developing creative thinking and fostering essential professional skills.

The meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening the link between creative education and the textile industry as a foundation for sustainable development and the generation of innovative solutions.


Tumo Studios is a free educational program designed for university-age students and young professionals interested in design and craftsmanship. Inspired by Armenia’s rich artisanal heritage, Tumo Studios blends local expertise with modern methodologies and global design trends. The program connects local talent with international designers through hands-on ateliers, where they collaborate to create unique and innovative products.

The Foundation remains committed to expanding partnerships that bridge the gap between the textile industry and creative education to collectively shape the future of the sector.
]]> TIOF Visit to the Gyumri Branch of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia http://tiof.am/tpost/bt4nnzk221-tiof-visit-to-the-gyumri-branch-of-the-n http://tiof.am/tpost/bt4nnzk221-tiof-visit-to-the-gyumri-branch-of-the-n?amp=true Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:54:00 +0300

TIOF Visit to the Gyumri Branch of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation (TIOF) team held a meeting with representatives of the Gyumri branch of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia (NPUA), led by the Branch Director, Associate Professor Artur Kostandyan.

During the meeting, the parties discussed strategic cooperation directions aimed at the development of Armenia's textile sector. Several promising joint initiatives were identified, including the introduction of new educational curricula, the implementation of research-driven projects, the establishment of innovation laboratories, and the organization of targeted vocational training programs.

The discussion marked a significant step toward defining a shared roadmap focused on human capital development, the strengthening of professional capacities, and the execution of high-impact industry programs.

TIOF views collaboration with educational institutions as a pivotal factor for the sector's sustainable growth and remains committed to deepening partnerships that deliver practical, tangible results.
]]> TIOF Working Visit to "Alex Textile" http://tiof.am/tpost/4gf0m1exa1-tiof-working-visit-to-alex-textile http://tiof.am/tpost/4gf0m1exa1-tiof-working-visit-to-alex-textile?amp=true Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:52:00 +0300

TIOF Working Visit to "Alex Textile"

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team, led by Director Erik Minasyan, visited "Alex Textile" to observe its production processes and discuss strategic steps for the development of the sector.

During the visit, the team conducted a comprehensive tour of the manufacturing facilities, observing the entire production chain—from raw material selection to the finished product. Discussions focused on potential improvements and transitions that could enhance quality and bolster the competitiveness of Armenia’s textile industry.

"Alex Textile" distinguishes itself in the market through high-quality output, modern design, and a competitive pricing policy. The company utilizes premium raw materials, and its production units are equipped with machinery from globally recognized brands, ensuring consistent, high-standard manufacturing.

TIOF values cooperation with such industry leaders as a vital foundation for sector growth, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of production aligned with international standards.
]]> Official Launch Event of the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation http://tiof.am/tpost/nygajbhif1-official-launch-event-of-the-textile-ind http://tiof.am/tpost/nygajbhif1-official-launch-event-of-the-textile-ind?amp=true Tue, 02 Dec 2025 20:54:00 +0300

Official Launch Event of the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation

On December 2nd, the official launch event of the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation took place, bringing together key representatives from the public, private, and international sectors.

The Foundation was established at the initiative of the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, with the support of the UK Government’s Good Governance Fund (GGF), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the Investment Council of Armenia (ICA).

The event was attended by the Deputy Minister of Economy, Edgar Zakaryan, who emphasized the strategic importance of the textile industry to the Armenian economy. He noted that the sector holds immense potential for both export growth and value-added creation. He further stated that sustainable industry development requires a coordinated approach, innovative solutions, and effective public-private partnership (PPP) mechanisms.

According to the Deputy Minister, the Foundation—established by the Government's decision on July 24, 2025—is a direct result of the National Textile Sector Development Strategy and is designed to ensure continuous and systematic progress within the industry.

During the event, TIOF Acting Director Erik Minasyan delivered a presentation outlining the Foundation’s upcoming programs, strategic directions, and vision. His remarks focused on coordinated development and enhancing the sector’s international competitiveness. The presentation also detailed the Foundation’s establishment process, its management model, and core objectives, including market diversification and the promotion of Armenian brands.


A panel discussion was held as part of the event, addressing industry growth prospects, technological modernization, productivity enhancement, and opportunities for accessing international markets.

The launch was also attended by the UK Ambassador to Armenia, Alexandra Cole, as well as high-level representatives from financial institutions and private and international organizations.

]]> TIOF Visit to the Yerevan State College of Light Industry http://tiof.am/tpost/u1odix8kb1-tiof-visit-to-the-yerevan-state-college http://tiof.am/tpost/u1odix8kb1-tiof-visit-to-the-yerevan-state-college?amp=true Thu, 18 Dec 2025 20:55:00 +0300

TIOF Visit to the Yerevan State College of Light Industry

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team met with representatives of the Yerevan State College of Light Industry to discuss the primary challenges facing Armenia's textile sector.

The meeting was attended by the College Director, Artak Sargsyan, and TIOF Director, Erik Minasyan. During the discussion, both parties addressed the development of vocational education, the specific needs of the industry, and the practical steps required to bridge the gap between education and production.

Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of collaboration aimed at preparing high-quality specialists, developing skills that align with labor market demands, and enhancing the overall competitiveness of the sector.

The Yerevan State College of Light Industry has traditionally served as a methodological coordination center for other colleges providing similar vocational training. Today, the college's leading lecturers continue to play a vital role in the implementation of modular curricula within the educational system.


Reflecting on the experience of the last 15 years, graduates of the college have consistently proven to be competitive across various sectors of the economy, distinguished not only by their professional skills but also by their intellectual upbringing and high ethical standards.

Such collaborative frameworks are essential for the development of Armenia's textile industry and the promotion of innovation, creating a sustainable and long-term impact on the sector.
]]> TIOF Visit to the "Elina" Manufacturing Unit http://tiof.am/tpost/a1fukcaza1-tiof-visit-to-the-elina-manufacturing-un http://tiof.am/tpost/a1fukcaza1-tiof-visit-to-the-elina-manufacturing-un?amp=true Sat, 20 Dec 2025 20:56:00 +0300

TIOF Visit to the "Elina" Manufacturing Unit

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation team visited the “Elina” garment manufacturing facility to gain a deeper understanding of the company's operations and industrial processes.

During the visit, the team examined production workflows, technological capabilities, and quality control standards. They also engaged in substantive discussions with the company's leadership and staff.

Founded in 2010, “Elina” is an Armenian brand specializing in high-quality, feminine, and classic locally-produced apparel. The brand offers fashionable and practical solutions—including dresses, blazers, and vests—designed to provide a sophisticated and elegant look for the modern woman.

The meeting served as a vital platform for discussing future collaboration. Both parties exchanged ideas for potential joint programs and initiatives aimed at sector development, strengthening production capacities, and ensuring sustainable growth.
]]> TIOF Meeting with Representatives of the Fashion and Design Chamber of Armenia http://tiof.am/tpost/br5dbepbh1-tiof-meeting-with-representatives-of-the http://tiof.am/tpost/br5dbepbh1-tiof-meeting-with-representatives-of-the?amp=true Fri, 26 Dec 2025 20:56:00 +0300

TIOF Meeting with Representatives of the Fashion and Design Chamber of Armenia

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation (TIOF) team, led by Director Erik Minasyan, held a meeting with the President of the Fashion and Design Chamber of Armenia, Vahan Khachatryan, and chamber representatives.

The meeting took place in an open and productive atmosphere. Both parties explored various cooperation opportunities, discussed development pathways for the Armenian fashion sector, and reviewed prospects for the implementation of joint projects.

Special attention was given to initiatives that could contribute to the sustainable development of the industry, enhance its competitiveness, and promote Armenian fashion on a global scale.

The Fashion and Design Chamber of Armenia NGO was founded in 2017 with the goal of strengthening the fashion, textile, and design sectors by fully integrating them into both local and international creative ecosystems.

The Chamber’s vision is to serve as a leading organization in Armenia, uniting fashion and design professionals to foster the creation of a sustainable industry while positioning the Armenian creative and manufacturing sectors as ethical and competitive players in the international market.

Today, the Chamber represents more than 250 Armenian designers, brands, textile companies, students, and creative professionals.
]]> TIOF Participation in Sectoral Strategic Planning Workshop http://tiof.am/tpost/h0aezifvp1-tiof-participation-in-sectoral-strategic http://tiof.am/tpost/h0aezifvp1-tiof-participation-in-sectoral-strategic?amp=true Mon, 22 Dec 2025 20:56:00 +0300

TIOF Participation in Sectoral Strategic Planning Workshop

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation participated in a workshop titled "2025 Results Review and 2026 Strategic Planning," held with the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the apparel sector.

The workshop was conducted within the framework of the "Sustainable Apparel and Agribusiness Value Chain Development in Armenia" project, supported by the European Union (EU4Armenia) and organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC).

During the event, participants reviewed the achievements of 2025 and discussed key strategic directions and priorities for 2026. Special emphasis was placed on sustainable development, deepening cooperation, and strengthening value chains within the industry.

TIOF’s participation in such initiatives contributes to sectoral consolidation, knowledge exchange, and the creation of new opportunities for joint development in Armenia.
]]> New Professional Training Program for Apparel Industry Specialists http://tiof.am/tpost/rt18t3px51-new-professional-training-program-for-ap http://tiof.am/tpost/rt18t3px51-new-professional-training-program-for-ap?amp=true Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:57:00 +0300

New Professional Training Program for Apparel Industry Specialists

Within the framework of the EU-funded "Sustainable Agribusiness and Apparel Value Chains in Armenia" project, the International Trade Centre (ITC), in collaboration with the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation (TIOF) and the ATEX Fashion Center, has launched an 8-day advanced professional training course on "Pattern Making and Production of Shirts and Blouses."

This initiative stands as a prime example of the effective TIOF-ITC partnership, dedicated to the development of human capital within Armenia's textile and apparel sector in alignment with international standards.

The course is conducted by internationally recognized expert Irina Tannous-Filichkina, the official representative of the "Müller & Sohn" German Fashion and Design Academy, a WorldSkills international expert, and a constructor for Reiser Manufaktur, bringing extensive experience in fashion design and apparel manufacturing.

The program consists of two specialized phases:

  • A 5-day module: Designed for mid-level specialists and lecturers from vocational and higher educational institutions.
  • A 3-day advanced module: Tailored for highly experienced industry professionals.

Throughout the training, participants explore the "Müller & Sohn" methodology, work with modern fabrics, and study advanced sewing and construction techniques, as well as European market requirements. The curriculum is designed to foster the development of highly practical and applicable skills.


This marks the first joint professional training program implemented through the collaboration of TIOF, ITC, and the ATEX Fashion Center, signaling the launch of a series of continuous educational initiatives within the sector.
]]> TIOF Attends Final Diploma Defenses in Garment Design http://tiof.am/tpost/tmc0r2hva1-tiof-attends-final-diploma-defenses-in-g http://tiof.am/tpost/tmc0r2hva1-tiof-attends-final-diploma-defenses-in-g?amp=true Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:57:00 +0300

TIOF Attends Final Diploma Defenses in Garment Design

Representatives of the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation attended the final diploma defense presentations of students from the "Garment Modeling and Design" department.

During the defense, students presented their innovative projects and creative works, demonstrating the professional knowledge, technical skills, and artistic approaches they acquired during their studies.

TIOF Director Erik Minasyan attended the event as a guest of honor, emphasizing the critical importance of synergy between the educational system and the manufacturing sector. He reviewed the students' portfolios with great interest, shared professional insights, and extended his best wishes to the graduates for their future careers.

TIOF highlights such initiatives as vital platforms for empowering young professionals, strengthening the education-to-industry pipeline, and ensuring the continuous advancement of the sector.
]]> From Education to Industry: TIOF and NPUA Gyumri Branch Join Forces http://tiof.am/tpost/7l4571ot11-from-education-to-industry-tiof-and-npua http://tiof.am/tpost/7l4571ot11-from-education-to-industry-tiof-and-npua?amp=true Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:57:00 +0300

From Education to Industry: TIOF and NPUA Gyumri Branch Join Forces

The "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) with the Gyumri branch of the National Polytechnic University of Armenia (NPUA).

The memorandum was signed by TIOF Director Erik Minasyan and the Director of the NPUA Gyumri branch, Associate Professor Artur Kostandyan.

The partnership aims to drive educational and professional advancement within the textile sector, bridge the gap between academia and industry, and create new pathways for students through skill development, internship programs, and job placement initiatives.

Both parties emphasized the vital role of such collaborations in training high-quality specialists and building capacities that align with modern industry requirements.

This cooperation marks a significant step toward the sustainable development of Armenia's textile industry and the empowerment of a new generation of industry professionals.
]]> New Partnership for Skills Development: TIOF × MKUZAK http://tiof.am/tpost/upnxtlfpr1-new-partnership-for-skills-development-t http://tiof.am/tpost/upnxtlfpr1-new-partnership-for-skills-development-t?amp=true Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:03:00 +0300

New Partnership for Skills Development: TIOF × MKUZAK

A productive working meeting was held between Erik Minasyan, Director of the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation, and Tatevik Gasparyan, Director of the National Center for Vocational Education and Training Development (MKUZAK).

During the meeting, the parties explored various cooperation opportunities, specifically focusing on the advancement of vocational education, the modernization of skill sets, and the implementation of programs tailored to current industry needs.

It was noted that since 2012, by the joint decision of the Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of the RA and its social partners, Armenia has been a member of WorldSkills International. Within this global platform, Armenia is officially represented by the MKUZAK.

As a result of the discussions, the parties reached an agreement to collaborate under the ArmSkills framework. This partnership aims to implement long-term and sustainable projects that will drive skill development and the training of a new generation of specialists in the textile sector.

This cooperation marks a significant step toward strengthening the link between education and industry and enhancing the global competitiveness of Armenia's textile sector.
]]> TIOF Initiates International Webinar on Export Readiness http://tiof.am/tpost/ykpetc7kr1-tiof-initiates-international-webinar-on http://tiof.am/tpost/ykpetc7kr1-tiof-initiates-international-webinar-on?amp=true Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:58:00 +0300

TIOF Initiates International Webinar on Export Readiness

Initiated by the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation (TIOF) and within the framework of a strategic agreement with PUM Netherlands Senior Experts, a webinar titled "Expo Preparation, Sales, and Marketing" was held.

The collaboration aims to engage international experts to assist Armenian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing their negotiation skills, international market positioning, and strategic communication.

The webinar was led by expert Gea Eleveld, who presented global trends in the textile sector, core principles for participating in international trade fairs, and effective sales and negotiation strategies.

During the session, participants gained practical knowledge on preparing for exhibitions effectively, defining clear objectives, strengthening sales strategies, and accurately assessing buyer expectations.

The program plans to support approximately 20–30 SMEs by providing individual consulting to facilitate their more effective engagement in international markets.

This initiative is designed to enhance the competitiveness of the Armenian textile sector and promote its sustainable development.
]]> TIOF Signs MoU to Support WorldSkills Armenia Movement http://tiof.am/tpost/5r0iptn7h1-tiof-signs-mou-to-support-worldskills-ar http://tiof.am/tpost/5r0iptn7h1-tiof-signs-mou-to-support-worldskills-ar?amp=true Fri, 08 May 2026 15:00:00 +0300

TIOF Signs MoU to Support WorldSkills Armenia Movement

On May 8, 2026, the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation signed two significant Memorandum of Understanding with the aim of supporting the WorldSkills Armenia movement.

  • The first Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation and the National Center for Vocational Education and Training Development (MKUZAK).
  • The second Memorandum of Understanding was concluded between the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation and the "Atex" Fashion Center.

The main objective of this cooperation is to jointly support and develop the WorldSkills Armenia movement, particularly in the "Fashion Technology" skill direction. This will enable young specialists to enhance their qualifications, showcase their skills, and contribute to the advancement of Armenia's textile and fashion industries.

The signing ceremony was attended by participants of the WorldSkills Armenia movement, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, which underscores the importance of the initiative at the state level.

Erik Minasyan, Director of the "Textile Industry Operator" Foundation, emphasized the importance of skills development in Armenia, noting that it is vital for expanding career opportunities for youth and increasing the country's economic competitiveness.

This collaboration is an important step in enhancing the quality of Armenia's workforce and creating new opportunities for future generations.
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