Project code: | BGRS0700160 |
Project call: | Open Call for Proposals (Services of General Interest) under Priority 2 – Integrated development of the cross-border region |
Priority axis / Specific objective: | Priority 2 - Integrated development of border region
RSO5.2 - Fostering the integrated and inclusive social, economic and environmental local development, culture, natural heritage, sustainable tourism and security, in areas other than urban areas |
Type of project: | Soft |
Project duration in months: | 24 |
Project final contract amount: | € 294 127 |
Project EU co-financing rate: | 85 % |
Project start date: | 27.06.2026 |
Project end date: | 26.06.2028 |
Partners: |
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Project summary: | Supporting young people and fostering entrepreneurship are among the key prerequisites for the sustainable development of the cross-border region between Bulgaria and Serbia. The project Innovation Fusion for Serbia-Bulgaria Youth Entrepreneurship – INNOFUSION YOUTH introduces a new model for delivering entrepreneurship support services that will be accessible to young people on both sides of the border. By bringing together partners from Bulgaria and Serbia, the project will create an environment that encourages the development of entrepreneurial ideas, knowledge exchange and cross-border cooperation. The project will establish two modern start-up hubs in Vidin and Zaječar, providing co-working space, product prototyping equipment, specialised training, mentoring and expert support for young people with entrepreneurial ambitions. Operating as an interconnected cross-border network, the two hubs will offer new opportunities for learning, collaboration and the development of innovative business ideas. To ensure that these services are easily accessible, the project will also develop a multilingual digital platform featuring an AI-powered assistant, providing information, learning resources and practical guidance for starting and growing a business. In addition, the Future Makers Academy will deliver hands-on training programmes, workshops, innovation labs and meetings with entrepreneurs aimed at strengthening entrepreneurial knowledge and skills. Particular attention will be given to secondary school students, who will be introduced to entrepreneurship through interactive workshops and Hub Discovery Days organised at the start-up hubs. The project will also encourage the creation of a sustainable cross-border community by bringing together young entrepreneurs through innovation camps, annual events and initiatives promoting the exchange of ideas and good practices. To further support aspiring entrepreneurs, the project will develop a practical toolkit containing legal, financial and organisational guidance for starting and managing a business. Public awareness campaigns and promotional events will also be organised to introduce the new services and encourage wider participation in entrepreneurial initiatives across the region. By combining modern infrastructure, digital solutions, practical learning opportunities and cross-border cooperation, the project will contribute to building a more accessible and sustainable support system for entrepreneurship in the Vidin, Bor and Zaječar regions. Around 18,000 people are expected to benefit directly from the new services, creating better opportunities for young entrepreneurs while strengthening cooperation between organisations and communities on both sides of the border.
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