Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Children of Armenia Fund (COAF) is a non-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to advancing rural communities in Armenia through education, healthcare, social services, and economic development. Established in 2004 by Dr. Garo H. Armen, COAF has significantly impacted over 120,000 individuals across seven regions of Armenia.

Mission and Vision

COAF's mission is to provide resources to children and adults with COAF SMART initiatives to advance rural communities through innovation. The organization envisions an Armenia where all children, youth, and their families have the opportunities and resources to realize their full potential and contribute to the advancement of the world around them.

Primary Area of Focus

COAF focuses on child-centered development in rural Armenia, addressing systemic gaps through comprehensive education, healthcare, child and family services, and economic development programs. The organization operates in 64 rural communities across six provinces, aiming to reduce poverty and improve quality of life.

Industry Significance

As a leading non-profit organization in Armenia, COAF plays a pivotal role in rural development, setting a model for community-driven initiatives that can be replicated in other regions facing similar challenges. Its holistic approach has garnered international recognition and partnerships, enhancing its impact and sustainability.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Education: Enhancing access to quality education from preschool to career development.

Healthcare: Improving primary health services and promoting community well-being.

Child and Family Services: Providing comprehensive support to families and children, including psychological assistance and social work.

Economic Development: Fostering sustainable economic growth through infrastructure improvements and support for local businesses.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Community Development: Implementing programs tailored to the unique needs of each community.

Infrastructure Rehabilitation: Renovating schools, health clinics, kindergartens, and community centers.

Youth Empowerment: Offering after-school programs, career development support, and leadership training.

Key Technologies Utilized

SMART Centers: Technologically advanced educational hubs providing access to modern learning tools and resources.

Digital Platforms: Utilizing online courses and virtual learning environments to reach remote communities.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

COAF primarily targets rural communities in Armenia, focusing on areas with limited access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. The organization addresses systemic issues contributing to poverty and underdevelopment in these regions.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Since its inception, COAF has raised over $54 million, funding and implementing various programs and infrastructure projects across Armenia.

Recent Funding Rounds

In December 2025, COAF raised more than $8 million at its 22nd Annual Holiday Gala, titled "Light the Way Forward," to support education, healthcare, and community development programs in rural Armenia.

Notable Investors

COAF's funding comes from a diverse group of donors, including individual philanthropists, corporate partners, and international organizations. The organization maintains strong partnerships with entities such as the Armenian government, the United States government, international organizations, banks, and local companies with sustainable corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Intended Utilization of Capital

Funds raised are allocated towards:

Program Expansion: Extending existing programs and introducing new initiatives in underserved communities.

Infrastructure Development: Renovating and building educational and healthcare facilities.

Operational Costs: Supporting the day-to-day operations of COAF's programs and administrative functions.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

COAF's pipeline includes the development and expansion of SMART Centers and related facilities:

SMART Center in Lori Province: Opened in May 2018, serving as a regional educational hub.

Upcoming SMART Center in Armavir Province: Construction underway, scheduled for completion in 2028.

Stages of Development

Planning and Design: Identifying community needs and designing appropriate facilities.

Construction: Building and equipping centers with modern educational tools.

Operational Launch: Initiating programs and services for community engagement.

Target Conditions

The SMART Centers aim to address educational disparities, lack of access to technology, and limited extracurricular opportunities in rural communities.

Relevant Timelines

Lori Province SMART Center: Operational since May 2018.

Armavir Province SMART Center: Expected to be operational by 2028.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

SMART Centers: State-of-the-art facilities offering a range of educational programs and services.

SMART Rooms: Technology-equipped spaces in remote villages providing access to digital learning resources.

Significant Scientific Methods

Project-Based Learning: Encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills among students.

Community-Led Development: Engaging local populations in identifying and addressing their own needs.

Leadership Team

Key Executives

Dr. Garo H. Armen: Founder and Chairman. An American-Armenian scientist and philanthropist, Dr. Armen established COAF in 2004 to address the challenges faced by rural communities in Armenia.

Liana Ghaltaghchyan: Executive Director. Appointed in 2018, Ms. Ghaltaghchyan oversees COAF's operations and strategic initiatives.

Professional Backgrounds

Dr. Garo H. Armen: With a Ph.D. in physical chemistry, Dr. Armen has been involved in various humanitarian projects in Armenia, including financial assistance for schools and orphanages.

Liana Ghaltaghchyan: Ms. Ghaltaghchyan has extensive experience in non-profit management and community development, focusing on rural empowerment and sustainable development.

Key Contributions

Dr. Garo H. Armen: Established COAF and has been instrumental in its growth and impact.

Liana Ghaltaghchyan: Led the expansion of SMART Centers and enhanced program delivery across Armenia.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The non-profit sector in Armenia is characterized by a growing number of organizations focused on rural development, education, and healthcare. The market is dynamic, with increasing collaboration among local and international entities to address systemic challenges in rural communities.

Competitor Analysis

Health Fund for Children of Armenia: Established in 2021, this organization focuses on providing medical assistance to children with serious health issues, complementing COAF's healthcare initiatives.

Armenian Relief Society (ARS): A global organization providing humanitarian aid, education, and health services, operating in Armenia and other countries.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

COAF collaborates with various organizations, including the Armenian government, international donors, and local businesses, to enhance program effectiveness and sustainability. Notable partnerships include collaborations with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the World Bank, and the U.S. Embassy in Armenia.

Operational Insights

COAF's holistic approach, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic development, differentiates it from competitors by addressing multiple facets of rural poverty simultaneously. The establishment of SMART Centers and Rooms provides a technological edge, offering modern learning environments in underserved areas.