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Northstar Group · Yerevan, Armenia

We bring the world's greatest companies to Armenia.

Northstar Group is a private investment group that brings global brands into Armenia through franchising — we research the market, fund the launch, and stay beside you through every stage of entry.

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Our Mission

Positioning Armenia as a globally competitive investment destination.

We provide world-class facilitation, transparent coordination, and relentless advocacy for investors — turning market interest into operating businesses on the ground in Armenia.

Our Vision

A recognized global business destination.

We want Armenia renowned for its dynamic and diverse economy — a place that enriches local entrepreneurs and global business leaders alike, for decades to come.

What We Do

One partner, fully funded, start to finish.

Northstar Group doesn't just advise — we cover the investment required to bring your brand to Armenia, and manage every step of getting it open.

Market Research

Deep feasibility studies on demand, competitive landscape, pricing, and site potential before a single dollar moves.

Investment

We fund the capital required to launch — real estate, buildout, licensing fees, and working capital.

Market Penetration

Go-to-market strategy, local partnerships, and launch campaigns built for the Armenian consumer.

Franchising

End-to-end franchise structuring, licensing negotiation, and operational setup on the brand's behalf.

Our Mandate

Beyond individual deals — building Armenia's investment case.

Northstar Group is a privately owned investment group, not a government body or agency — we pursue this mandate independently, in the interest of the brands and investors we represent.

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Investment Destination Positioning

Strengthening Armenia's position as a competitive, attractive investment destination — presenting its business environment, sector strengths, and strategic advantages to international investors.

02

Global Awareness

Expanding global recognition of Armenia's investment opportunities, reinforcing the country's visibility and credibility in the international investment landscape.

03

Institutional Cooperation

Building and coordinating partnerships with international organizations and business networks — organizing joint initiatives and events that attract new investment.

Why Armenia

A small country with an outsized opportunity.

Strategic access, a fast-growing tech economy, and a workforce built for global business.

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Population of Armenia, with over a third concentrated in Yerevan
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Flat corporate tax rate — one of the region's simplest tax regimes
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Working languages of the modern Armenian workforce — Armenian, Russian, English
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International visitors welcomed in 2024, fueling demand for retail and hospitality brands
Who We Are

Founded by Berkeley alumni. Built in Silicon Valley. Rooted in Armenia.

Northstar Group's founders and managing partners, Aram Cherkezyan and Rafayel Mkrtchyan, are UC Berkeley alumni who returned home from Silicon Valley to build fast-growing technology businesses in Armenia — attracting millions of dollars of investment into the country's tech sector along the way.

That same network, capital discipline, and operating rigor now powers Northstar Group's mission — bringing the world's most trusted brands to Armenia.

Meet the team →
How We Work

From first call to grand opening.

01

Discovery & Fit

We assess brand-market fit, ambition, and category dynamics to confirm Armenia is the right next market.

02

Market Research & Feasibility

Consumer demand, competitive mapping, pricing, and site-level economics — the full investment case, quantified.

03

Investment Structuring

Northstar Group structures and commits the capital required — no fundraising burden on the brand.

04

Site Selection & Setup

Real estate, licensing, regulatory coordination, and local operations built out to brand standard.

05

Launch & Growth

Go-to-market execution, ongoing advocacy, and a roadmap for expansion across the Armenian market.

Let's Talk

Ready to bring your brand to Armenia?

Tell us about your brand and we'll come back with an initial view on fit, opportunity, and next steps.