Overall Objective

The project aims to build the capacities of individuals to start and manage SEs through training, mentorship, coaching, facilitating opportunities for cross-border and cross-sectoral cooperation and facilitating access to finance opportunities. It aims to contribute to strengthening the existing SEs in the cross-border region through facilitating contacts and partnerships with the traditional business sector companies, thus enabling SEs’ growth and increased turnover.

Activities

• Capacity building for owners of existing SEs in the cross-border region, individuals who want to start new SEs in the region, and traditional business sector companies
• Networking sessions within events
• Developing a policy study for the cross-border region
• Disseminating a policy brief among the relevant institutions, policy-makers and public

Expected Results

• Training curricula and training materials developed (for SE start-ups, for existing SEs, for traditional business sector companies)
• At least 80 participants attend 6 groups of the training programme for SE start-ups
• At least 60 personal plans developed and 120 mentorship meetings held
• At least 45 participants attend 4 groups of training programme for traditional business sector companies
• At least 80 participants attend the 6 groups of training programme for SEs
• One research methodology delivered
• Research report published
• At least 10 new partnerships established between traditional business sector companies and SEs
• Six SEs/individuals awarded up to 3000 EUR grants for developing their SEs
• At least 40 participants pitch their ideas in front of a committee for awarding grants (at 4 events)