Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Date of latest update: 2025-12-17

Description

Description (EN):

The SE ecosystem has developed over the years, however disparities between western and eastern countries in the Danube Region persists. The territorial challenges social entrepreneurship in partner countries are facing are related to low level of engagement of public authorities for implementing and supporting social economy at local level, missing networking and B2B connections, low number of innovative SEs, lack of programmes demonstrating social value to general public. Motivated by these challenges, the Danube4SEecosystem main objective is to jointly develop inspiring policies for social enterprises by involving local public authorities into the social enterprises supporting ecosystem in order to enhance inclusive employment in the Danube region while supporting the sustainable operation of social enterprises as interpreted on the basis of a broad definition, in order to strengthen their employment role at the settlement and regional level. Specifically, the project develops the Strategy for inclusive Social Economy ecosystem and an Action Plan for implementing the Strategy which will be pilot tested in 5 countries on 5 themes. The results of the pilot actions will feed into the Social Economy Support Guide for public authorities and intermediaries on how to support SE. This innovative handbook will include clear guidelines on how to implement the support, guidance on the human and financial resources needed as well as important practical tips and knowledgeable contact points in partner countries. Danube4SEEcosystem will enhance SEs skills and capacity by developing 2 assessment tools for SE sector and providing training sessions for social entrepreneurs and local public authorities; improve visibility, recognition and collaboration with their ecosystem by the creating Danube Social Economy Network; increase the transnational cooperation between entities supporting the development of social economy and sharing the best practices learned in their territory.

Actual Achievements (EN):

Danube4SEEcosystem Project: A Catalyst for Social Economy Growth in the Danube Region In its first reporting period, the Danube4SEEcosystem project has already made significant strides in strengthening the social economy landscape across the Danube region. Led by the South Muntenia Regional Development Agency (SMRDA) as the Lead Partner, the project is establishing a foundation for a more resilient, sustainable, and interconnected social economy ecosystem. In January 2024, SMRDA brought together project partners from across the region for an online Kick-off Meeting, setting a collaborative tone for the project. A robust Communication Strategy has been key to raising awareness and bringing together diverse stakeholders. With engaging project materials—including a comprehensive website, social media presence, and promotional materials—the project has reached a broad audience. The project was also prominently introduced at the "Back on Track" Kick-off event in Vienna, further amplifying its visibility and impact. Mapping the Social Economy Ecosystem: Insights Across Nine Countries One of the project’s first major milestones is a comprehensive report for mapping the social economy landscape in nine participating countries. This report offers valuable insights into local challenges, opportunities, and best practices, setting a knowledge-rich foundation for the D4SEE Strategy. This baseline will be essential as cities and regions build their social economy initiatives, informed by shared experiences across the region. Shaping regional strategies for social economy support through Policy Learning Dialogues The project’s first Policy Learning Dialogue (PLD) was held in Croatia, where 56 participants gathered to discuss and shape regional strategies for social economy support. This event showcased the benefits of transnational collaboration, with stakeholders from public administration, NGOs, and business support organizations exchanging ideas and formulating practical solutions. The PLD workshop offered valuable insights into improving social economy policies, with an emphasis on better coordination and robust frameworks. These findings will inform the development of the D4SEE Strategy and Action Plan, which will be disseminated to policymakers and EUSDR representatives to promote a unified approach in the Danube region. Identifying skills gaps to shape Capacity Building In an innovative step, the project conducted a comprehensive skills gap analysis involving over 300 participants from social enterprises (SEs) and local public authorities (LPAs). This assessment has already uncovered key areas where capacity-building efforts can empower SEs and foster effective collaborations with LPAs. The insights gathered will guide upcoming training programs, equipping SEs with skills to thrive and drive social impact in their communities. The collected data offers valuable insights into how LPAs perceive their collaboration with SEs and identifies opportunities to develop policies that enhance SEs' competitiveness and capacity for innovation. These findings are essential for guiding the next steps in the D4SEE Capacity Building Programme, ensuring that skills development efforts meet the specific needs of stakeholders across the Danube region. Empowering Knowledge Transfer for Regional growth A Knowledge Transfer Workshop (KTW) was also held in Croatia to set tangible goals for knowledge-sharing across the region. Attended by 51 stakeholders, the workshop highlighted best practices, explored goals for effective transfer, and established methods for measuring impact—creating a strong foundation for future training and regional cooperation. The event gathered experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from various countries, aiming to address the challenges and opportunities facing social enterprises and local public authorities (LPAs) as they work to foster sustainable development. The workshop concluded with actionable recommendations to support SE growth and resilience across the Danube region, namely: To foster a more robust social economy ecosystem, participants advocated for standardized terminology for SEs, adapted to local contexts to ensure clarity and consistency. Other recommendations included a focus on community-building, effective communication, and regular impact measurement through key performance indicators (KPIs). Strengthening transparency and fostering cooperation between SEs and LPAs were seen as essential steps toward creating a sustainable social economy. In summary, the Danube4SEEcosystem project has made meaningful progress in setting up foundational elements for a resilient and interconnected social economy across the Danube region. As the project moves forward, these early achievements will serve as critical stepping stones for broader regional impact, driving sustainable development and collaboration between SEs and LPAs. In sem 2, the D4SEE project made significant progress toward fostering a more inclusive and collaborative social economy ecosystem in the Danube Region. Key achievements include the development of an online catalogue, regional stakeholder engagement, policy learning dialogues, and the advancement of pilot actions and training programs. Showcasing Best Practices (SO1) A major milestone was the creation of an online catalogue with 30 best practices of SE-LPA cooperation across the Danube Region. Developed by 10 partners from 9 countries, it serves as a key knowledge-sharing tool on the D4SEE website. Regional stakeholder meetings facilitated project updates, discussions, and planning for training programs, strategies, and pilot actions, reinforcing cross-border collaboration. Strategic Policy Development A major deliverable, D.1.2.2: Draft Set of Priorities for D4SEE Strategy Building, was developed by ZSI in collaboration with project partners. This document outlines eight draft Policy Priority Areas derived from a Policy Gap Analysis conducted by each partner. These priorities will form the foundation of the D4SEE Strategy, guiding long-term policy interventions to support social economy growth in the region. The Policy Learning Dialogues (PLDs) aligned SE policies with EUSDR priorities. A key event was the second Policy Learning Dialogue, hosted in Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on October 24-25, 2024, fostering policy discussions and regional cooperation. Advancing Local Action Plans and Pilot Actions During the second semester, project partners collaborated on the development of Local Action Plans (LAPs) for piloting activities, resulting in five finalized LAPs with support from mentor countries and key stakeholders. SMRDA contributed by supporting the LAP development process through active participation in discussions, providing input on key priorities, and assisting with stakeholder engagement. This structured approach has been instrumental in enhancing stakeholder understanding and engagement. A major milestone in the D4SEE project is the planned Strategy for Social Economy in the Republic of Srpska (2025-2030), which will provide a structured framework for supporting social enterprises (SEs). The Ministry of Economy and Entrepreneurship of the Republic of Srpska, in partnership with RARS, SEs, and other stakeholders, will lead the document’s development, ensuring it aligns with national strategic planning regulations. The pilot activities of the D4SEE project showcase innovative strategies to enhance the social economy ecosystem across partner countries. These initiatives include: Slovakia: SE-municipality collaboration Croatia: Promoting socially responsible public procurement Hungary: Creating local purchasing communities Serbia: Developing tailored support programs for SEs serving vulnerable groups Each pilot tackles regional challenges while generating scalable models, practical insights, and stronger partnerships. By addressing local needs and offering replicable solutions, these activities contribute to the D4SEE Strategy’s objectives, promoting sustainable and inclusive development throughout the Danube Region. Building Capacity Through Training (SO2) Project partners advanced the development of training curricula for SEs and LPAs, holding multiple online meetings to refine content, structure, templates, and platform integration. The training materials, expected to be finalized by February 2025, will be translated into partner languages and integrated into the D4SEE platform, which is currently under development by ATS. Additionally, ATS organized a dedicated training session for partners to enhance the training format, mentoring approaches, and evaluation methods. Strengthening SE-LPA Cooperation (Activity 3.1 & 3.2) In Period 2, the second Know-How Transfer Workshop (KTW) took place on October 25, 2024, in Banja Luka, hosted by the RARS. This event featured best practices in SE-LPA collaboration and interactive sessions on strengthening partnerships, reinforcing the need for coordinated efforts to develop the social economy ecosystem in the Danube Region. Meanwhile, CDDA led the planning for pilot actions, outlining tasks and deadlines. A critical discussion on this took place during a partner meeting in Bratislava, organized by SBA. These pilot actions, set for implementation in Semester 3, aim to strengthen SE-LPA cooperation, address regional challenges, and promote sustainable practices. To formalize these efforts, UM drafted the Partnership Agreement (PA), which has been finalized and shared with project partners. The agreement will be translated and signed, ensuring continued collaboration within the Danube Social Economy Network. Through these coordinated efforts, the D4SEE project continues to foster innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development in the social economy across the Danube Region. Danube4SEecosystem – 3rd Reporting Period (January–June 2025) Summary During the 3rd reporting period, the D4SEE consortium made significant progress across all three Specific Objectives (SO1–SO3), focusing on regional stakeholder engagement, finalization of training curricula, mentoring preparation, peer learning activities, pilot action implementation, and the dissemination of results. SO1 – Strengthening Local and Regional Ecosystems - Regional Stakeholder Meetings (D1.1.3): Each partner held its 3rd Regional Stakeholder Meeting, engaging SEs, LPAs, academia, and civil society to exchange experiences, present progress, and discuss pilot implementation outcomes. Events were held online and in person (e.g., Hungary, Slovenia, Romania, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina). - National Action Plans (D1.3.2): Draft versions of NAPs were prepared in all PP countries. Priorities and potential actions were discussed with stakeholders, ensuring alignment with local contexts. SO2 – Enhancing Skills, Knowledge, and Resilience of the SE Ecosystem - Training Curricula for SEs and LPAs (D2.2.3 & D2.2.4): o Modules were finalized and translated into all partner languages (EN + 9 national versions). o CDDA and SBA led the development of modules and translations; partners (e.g., UM, CCIS, REDEA, ZSI) contributed by drafting specific modules (e.g., ESG/SROI, financing, risk management, non-financial support). - Mentoring Guidelines and Train-the-Mentor Sessions (D2.2.2 & D2.3.4): Guidelines were finalized by ATS. Online mentor sessions (6–7 May 2025) tested the content, usability, and accessibility of training materials. All PPs participated, providing feedback for improvements. - Peer Learning Network (D2.2.5): Local peer learning events were organized (e.g., in Hungary, Croatia, Czechia, Romania, and Serbia). These brought together SEs and LPAs to discuss cooperation models, public procurement, and barriers to collaboration. SBA developed guidelines for organizing and monitoring peer learning. - Digital Training Platform (D2.3.7): ATS finalized the D4SEE platform, integrating 1,600 microlearning units, micro-credential systems, and assessment tools. Content was translated into all national languages. PPs tested and provided feedback. - Info-kit (D2.3.1): SMRDA developed a promotional package (brochure, awareness-raising tools) to support training and mentoring dissemination. SO3 – Pilots and Transnational Cooperation - Pilot Action Impact Evaluation and Analysis Guide (D3.2.1): Led by CDDA with contributions from partners, this guide set the methodology for evaluating pilots. - Pilot Implementations (D3.2.2–D3.2.5): o Hungary (CDDA): Established a local purchasing community in Simontornya through networking and workshops. o Croatia (REDEA): Implemented socially responsible public procurement with the Municipality of Mala Subotica and Humana Nova cooperative. o Serbia (CCIS): Implemented integration programs for vulnerable groups into the labour market with LPA Kragujevac. o Bosnia & Herzegovina (RARS): Developed a Social Entrepreneurship Strategy 2025–2031 for Republik of Srpska. o Slovakia (SBA): Conducted municipal process audits for improved SE cooperation. - Report on Pilot Actions and Success Cases (D3.2.6): Compiled by CDDA, this document consolidated lessons learned across pilot regions. - Cooperation Agreements (D3.1.3): New agreements between SEs and LPAs were signed in several regions (e.g., Bratunac in BiH). Capacity-Building & Knowledge Exchange - Study Visit (D2.5.1): University of Maribor hosted the 2nd Seminar and Study Visit (20–21 May 2025), focusing on best practices in SE support and field visits to Slovenian SEs. PPs and ASPs participated. - Preparation for Co-Creation Workshops (D2.4.1–2.4.2): RERA developed methodology and data collection tools. All PPs contributed with best practice cases. Communication & Dissemination - PPs (SMRDA, CDDA, REDEA, RERA, UM, etc.) actively used social media (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram) and dedicated webpages for visibility. - SMRDA published the 3rd Newsletter, ensuring consistent project branding and outreach. - Local events (RSMs, peer learning workshops, pilot launches) were promoted regionally. Management - SMRDA, as Lead Partner, coordinated reporting, monitoring, and the First Year Review (22 January 2025). - Regular monthly meetings and ad hoc calls were held for coordination. Key Achievements in RP3: - Finalization and translation of SE & LPA training curricula - Launch of D4SEE digital platform with 1,600 microlearning units - Train-the-Mentor sessions and peer learning networks established - Pilot actions implemented in five partner countries - Pilot evaluation methodology and success case report completed - Strong stakeholder engagement through RSMs and cooperation agreements - Consistent dissemination ensuring local and transnational visibility

Project outputs: The D4SEE Strategy for Inclusive Social Economy Ecosystem
(EN)
Jointly developed action plan for implementing the Strategy
(EN)
Joint pilot testing of the D4SEE Innovative Assessment Tools (EN)
Transnational D4SEE Skills Gap Assessment Tools for the SE sector in the Danube Region (EN)
Joint Pilot action for testing the DS4SEE Capacity Building Programme (EN)
Co-designed D4SEE Capacity Building Programme for sustainable & resilient SEs and LPAs, based on microlearning approach, tested and improved into validation(EN)
Interactive microlearning activities and microcredentials jointly developed and pilot tested on the D4SEE Platform(EN)
Innovative D4SEE digital training platform for SEs tested and improved based on the results of the piloting (EN)
Train the Mentor capacity building pilot action for stakeholders to ensure adequate guidance on facilitating knowledge transfer(EN)
Co-designed, piloted Danube4SEecosystem Programme for effective Mentor Training (EN)
Danube Social Economy Network(EN)
Pilot Action Implementation (EN)

Jointly developed, tested D4SEE Social Economy Support Methodology for applying solutions on SE collaborative models, based on the pilot actions implementation
(EN)
Joint implementation of the Danube4SEecosystem project (EN)

Thematic information

Labour market and employment Governance, partnership

Priority: (VI-B_D_3) Priority 3 - A more social Danube Region

Priority specific objective: RSO4.1. Enhancing the effectiveness and inclusiveness of labour markets and access to quality employment through developing social infrastructure and promoting social economy

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO4 A more social and inclusive Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights

Type of intervention: 138 Support for social economy and social enterprises

Partners (11)

Lead Partner: Agenția pentru Dezvoltare Regională Sud Muntenia

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 11390243

Department: Development and Communication Directorate, International Affairs and Projects Department

Address: General Constantin Pantazi Street , 910164 Calarasi, Romania

Department address: Munteniei, 910164 Călăraşi, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.adrmuntenia.ro

Total budget: EUR 259 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 207 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 51 900.00

Univerza v Mariboru

Name: Univerza v Mariboru

Department: Faculty of Economics and Business

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI71674705

Address: Slomškov trg , 2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Department address: Razlagova ulica, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.um.si/en/home-page/

Total budget: EUR 155 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 124 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 31 000.00

Contractors:

Name: MOZAIK DOBROT D.O.O.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI32763875
Name: NANA GOSTINSTVO D.O.O.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI58442626
Name: Z.M.V. D.O.O.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI74391429
Name: D.EXTRA MILE A. S. GOMEZEL S.P
VAT registration or tax identification number: 91508797
Name: TA SONČNI VZHOD
VAT registration or tax identification number: 48949817
Name: CENTER ODLIČNOSTI NEVLADNEGA S
VAT registration or tax identification number: 66730597
Name: GREGOR LEVIČ
VAT registration or tax identification number: 54585635
Name: ENGROTUŠ D.O.O.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI87927497
Name: MERCATOR D.O.O.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI45884595
Name: RAZVOJNA AGENCIJA SLO. GORICE
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI89110528

Advanced Technology Sustems

Name: Advanced Technology Sustems

Department: IA

Partner’s ID if not PIC: RO2649587

Address: Tineretului , 130029 Târgoviște, Romania

Department address: Tineretului , 130029 Târgoviște, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: SME

Website: http://ats.com.ro

Total budget: EUR 163 160.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 130 528.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 632.00

Razvojna agencija Republike Srpske

Name: Razvojna agencija Republike Srpske

Department: Strategic Planning Department

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4402108570003

Address: Trg jasenovačkih žrtava, 78000 Banja Luka , Bosnia and Herzegovina

Department address: Trg jasenovačkih žrtava, 78000 Banja Luka , Bosnia and Herzegovina

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: https://www.rars-msp.org/

Total budget: EUR 155 182.50

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 124 146.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 31 036.50

Privredna komora Srbije

Name: Privredna komora Srbije

Department: Centre for Support Programmes to Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 100296837

Address: Resavska , 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Department address: Resavska , 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://pks.rs

Total budget: EUR 177 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 142 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 35 500.00

Contractors:

Name: NAISA CONSULTING
VAT registration or tax identification number: 108721370
Name: Milly Konsalting
VAT registration or tax identification number: 107227988
Name: Media Support & Consulting doo
VAT registration or tax identification number: 107747626

Zentrum fuer soziale Innovation GmbH

Name: Zentrum fuer soziale Innovation GmbH

Department: Work & Equal Opportunities

Partner’s ID if not PIC: FN 401151d

Address: Linke Wienzeile , 1150 Vienna, Austria

Department address: Linke Wienzeile , 1150 Vienna, Austria

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.zsi.at

Total budget: EUR 267 700.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 214 160.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 53 540.00

RERA a.s.- Regionální rozvojová agentura jižních Čech

Name: RERA a.s.- Regionální rozvojová agentura jižních Čech

Department: Regional Development Agency of South Bohemia

Partner’s ID if not PIC: CZ25187937

Address: B. Nemcove , 37001 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic

Department address: B. Nemcove , 37001 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Other

Website: http://www.rera.cz

Total budget: EUR 176 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 140 800.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 35 200.00

Javna ustanova za razvoj Međimurske županije REDEA

Name: Javna ustanova za razvoj Međimurske županije REDEA

Department: Department for Social Activity Projects

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HR86547803101

Address: Bana Josipa Jelačića , 40000 Čakovec , Croatia

Department address: Bana Josipa Jelačića , 40000 Čakovec , Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: http://www.redea.hr

Total budget: EUR 176 302.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 141 041.60

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 35 260.40

Contractors:

Name: ACT GRUPA
VAT registration or tax identification number: 17942508126
Name: Rudi Express d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 27683033358
Name: PRINTEX d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 73479975183

Slovak Business Agency

Name: Slovak Business Agency

Department: Department of International projects

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 2020869279

Address: Karadžičova , 811 09 Bratislava, Slovakia

Department address: Karadžičova , 811 09 Bratislava, Slovakia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://www.sbagency.sk

Total budget: EUR 161 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 128 800.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 200.00

KDMFÜ Közép-Duna Menti Fejlesztési Ügynökség Nonprofit Korlátolt Felelősségű Társaság

Name: KDMFÜ Közép-Duna Menti Fejlesztési Ügynökség Nonprofit Korlátolt Felelősségű Társaság

Department: International Department

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 28820921217

Address: Kossuth Lajos , 7020 Dunaföldvár, Hungary

Department address: Kórház, 1033 Budapest, Hungary

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Regional public authority

Website: https://kdmfu.hu/

Total budget: EUR 192 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 153 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 38 400.00

Contractors:

Name: Fruit of Care Nonprofit Ltd.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 22938305-2-42

BSC, Poslovno podporni center d.o.o. Kranj , Kranj

Name: BSC, Poslovno podporni center d.o.o. Kranj , Kranj

Department: Department of International projects

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI 32865597

Address: Cesta Staneta Žagarja , 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Department address: Cesta Staneta Žagarja , 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: http://www.bsc-kranj.si

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

University of Maribor

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Advanced Technology Sustems

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Development Agency of the Republic of Srpska

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Centre for Social Innovation

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Regional Development Agency of South Bohemia

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Public Institution for the Development of the Međimurje County REDEA

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Slovak Business Agency

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

Central Danube Development Agency Nonprofit Ltd.

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

AGENȚIA PENTRU DEZVOLTARE REGIONALĂ SUD MUNTENIA

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Partners and Projects info

BSC, Business support Centre L.t.d.

Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

Project acronym: Danube4SEecosystem

Project ID: DRP0200034

Project start date: 2024-01-01

Project end date: 2026-06-30

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Social(i)Makers project
The Social(i)Makers project which was implemented under the Interreg Central Europe Programme aimed to improve social innovation capacities by working with financiers, entrepreneurs, policy makers and citizens on how to generate new lively ecosystems as a bottom-up result of their interactions. The project established the transnational educational programme to train and connect Social(i)makers through a central Europe-wide learning and innovation community.
The project trained various actors to design and launch effective and sustainable social innovation initiatives. Individual social innovation skills could be trained through a transnational educational programme provided for aspiring or already established innovators, a programme with two distinct, consecutive phases, collectively called the Social(i)Makers Launchpad: the Social Innovatoin Academy and Social Innovatoin Skyrocket Lab. In addition, the project contributed to the development of a Transnational Strategy and Transnational Action Plan for Advancing Social Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship in Central Europe. Centre for Social Innovation from Austria was part of the partnership in Social(i)Makers so they can bring in the knowledge gained during the implementation. (EN) |
ZSI has coordinated the INTERREG CE project Social(i)Makers. Within this project, ZSI has contributed to creating the MOOC Social Innovation Academy, implemented trainings for social entrepreneurs and coordinated the policy building activities.
As a leader of So1 in the Danube4SEEcosistem project, ZSI will transfer the knowledge gained focusing on the development of local action plans for pilot countries. (EN), SOCIAL SEEDS funded by Interreg Europe Programme
SOCIAL SEEDS which was implemented under the Interreg Europe Programme partnership aimed to equip policy-makers with evidence-based policy diagnostic tool that increases the effectiveness of local and regional policies for stimulation of growth & employment (preferably of vulnerable social groups) in social enterprises including their eco-systems in European cities and regions. Within the project, regional and local government-run measurement and labelling scheme addressed to social enterprises (SE) were established. It supported policy-makers’ concrete actions towards creating the right conditions to allow the sector to thrive. (EN) | BSC Kranj and RERA were partners in the project and will pass on the knowledge gained during this project to the PPs in D4SEE project specifically for the A 1.1 Mapping Social Economy ecosystem in the Danube region. (EN), Finance4SocialChange answered a key gap in the Danube region's policymaking sphere, namely the joint understanding of social impact investment as well as of specific measures to increase the efficiency of social enterprises' scaling up concerning the support of investment specialized in social enterprises, especially the hybrid and equity-type investments. (EN) | Partners from 11 DR countries contributed to: creating the first "Social Impact Investment Strategy for the Danube region" by paving the way for promoting more social innovations and social impact investment-ready social enterprises; delivering 130 hours of "blended" learning experiences through the ”Social Impact Investment Transnational Design Academy” and launching the first "Business Plan Competition" warm-up 2-stage investment ready competition. A mentorship pool, the "Social Impact Investment Community Council" was established with the aim to provide mentoring to scaling up SEs, and will continue beyond the lifetime of the project by merging with Global Social Entrepreneurship Network (GSEN). BSC Kranj and CCIS were partners in the project and will pass on the knowledge gained. (EN), The RISE (Regional Incubator for Social Entrepreneurs), this project is supported by the Agence Française de Développement, the European Union and Regional Youth Cooperation Office - https://www.risewb.org/ (EN) | The RISE (Regional Incubator for Social Entrepreneurs) project believes that youth of the Western Balkans are talented, full of innovative ideas and eager to achieve them. That’s why it is important to support social business ideas that will make the region a better place. RISE focuses on cooperation, ideas exchange, and peer learning. Social entrepreneurship is a great tool to empower the change-makers and bring them to action. RISE creates a regional network of Risers, young social entrepreneurs, and supports them in making their ideas a reality. The local implementation of RISE is ensured by the social incubators located in the region: ARNO (North Macedonia), Nešto Više, (Bosnia-Herzegovina), Yunus Social Business Balkans (Albania), Smart Kolektiv (Serbia), IEC Technopolis (Montenegro) and Balkan Green Foundation (Kosovo*). Smart Kolektiv is one of the main CCIS stakeholders which will pass gained knowledge to participants on the meetings organized on the national as well as PPs level. (EN), Interreg Europe project BRESE - Border Regions in Europe for Social Entrepreneurship. (EN) | The BRESE project aimed to deconstruct barriers, raise awareness, and assess policy frameworks and business support schemes for social enterprises by comparing and improving existing policy instruments in different European border regions. In doing so, BRESE took stock of existing frameworks and tailored support schemes in the partner regions, and improved the regional policy instruments to better respond to the needs of Social Enterprises. Project consortium consisted of the Euregio Rhine-Waal, HAMAG-BICRO, the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development of the Republic of Latvia, the Slovak Business Agency , Rzeszow Regional Development Agency and the University of Latvia. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 1 883 344.50

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 506 675.60

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Methodology for development of country reports on SEs in partner countries
Country report on SEs in partner countries - 9 CR developed
Regional stakeholder meetings organized in each partner country - 45 RSM organized
D4SEEcosystem on-line best practice catalogue - 1 catalogue
Joint Report on the Social Economy Ecosystem in the Danube region - 1 JR
Methodology for D4SEE Strategy development
Draft Set of priorities for D4SEE Strategy Building
Guidance for Action Plan development
Local Action Plans development
Methodological guidance for organizing PLDs
Policy Learning Dialogue workshops reports
Jointly developed Summary Report on Policy Learning Dialogue organized in 3 PP countries
Report on Social Economy policies improvements
2 Skills Gap Assessment Tools developed, 1 for SEs and 1 for Local Public authorities – PP10& PP6ZSI
Skill assessment of SEs and LPAs
Interviews performed with LPAs and SEs representatives for Qualitative evaluation.
National report on skills gap analysis and assessment tools
Report on skills gap analysis and assessment tools
D4SEE training, mentoring and networking program-PP10 ATS
D4SEE mentoring guidelines - PP10ATS
Training curricula for SEs. – PP3 SBA
Training curricula for LPAs – PP4 SBA
The peer learning network – PP4 SBA
Info-kit for training activities and promotion campaign – LP SMRDA
Training sessions for SEs – PP5 RERA
Training for LPAs – PP5 RERA
Train the mentors’ sessions – PP10 ATS
Mentoring sessions – PP3 SBA
D4SEE capacity-building program report – PP5 RERA
Innovative & Inclusive D4SEE digital training platform for SEs – PP10 ATS
Co-creation workshop preparation – PP5 RERA
Data and evidence collection for the co-creation workshops - PP5 RERA
D4SEE Co-creation workshops organized – 20 participants/event – all PPs
National Co-creation Workshops Reports
Joint Co-creation Workshops Report and D4SEE models – RERA
D4SEE best practices and lessons learnt
Methodology for organizing the Knowledge transfer workshops and National Transfer Workshops
Report on Knowledge transfer workshops organized in Croatia, Bosnia &Herzegovina and Czech Republic
15 Cooperation agreements between SEs and LPAs
9 National SE Transfer Workshops
Pilot Action Impact Evaluation and Analysis Guide
Pilot implementation of Local Action Plan on Pilot audit of local government processes - Slovakia
Pilot implementation of Local Action Plan on Purchasing community at local level - Hungary
Pilot implementation of Local Action Plan on Socially-responsible public procurement- REDEA Croatia
Pilot implementation of LAP on Integration into labour market of vulnerable groups - Serbia
Report on pilot actions and success cases
Pilot implementation of LAP on Strategic planning for embedment of SE at local level – BA
Partnership Agreement signed by members of Danube Social Economy Network
Social Award's methodology and criteria system

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The project contributes to the European Union Strategy for the Danube Region PA08 "Competitiveness of enterprises by emphasizing inclusive growth" and also to the PA09 “People and Skills” because one of the main objectives of the project aims at the joint development of public policies that support cities/regions to systematically support the operation and development of social enterprises in their territory, with focus on those SEs involving vulnerable groups in the labour market. Within the project, smart and coordinated public policies will be developed (Strategy for Inclusive Social Economy Ecosystem) and will be pilot tested in 5 countries on 5 themes, one of which being Integration into labour market of vulnerable groups (ageing population, disabled people, homeless people, etc). Also, “Strategy for inclusive Social Economy ecosystem” developed within the project will provide measures at local, regional, national and macroregional level, engaging national and regional authorities, as well as stakeholders, thereby maximizing positive effects. Also, the project directly addresses the specific challenges identified by the European Union Strategy for the Danube Region by addressing unemployment and the problem of social exclusion by the Labor Market Systems in the Danube region through support measures for job seekers, marginalized and deprived groups, as well as the involvement of Local Public Authorities in this whole process. Specifically, the project has contacted directly the EUSDR PA 9 Coordinator - Federal Ministry of Labour and Economy and introduced the project. PA9 Coordinator has ensured support for introducing and discussing the projects in the meetings of the EUSDR PA steering committee. This will ensure coordination with the EUSDR Priority Areas and will increase real implementation and impact of results of Danube4SEEEcosystem project and will contribute to the EUSDR implementation.
EuropeanGreenDeal The project contributes to the European Green Deal’s effort to protect the citizens and workers most vulnerable to the transition, providing access to re-skilling programs, jobs in new economic sectors by elaborating training and mentoring programs on much needed topics these days (eg risk management plan/strategy; establishing and financing new social enterprises digital skills & online marketing, etc) especially for vulnerable groups. Moreover, the project aims to enhance the innovation, management and digital skills and capacities of SEs to become more resilient, sustainable and smart, thus supporting the idea that digital technologies are a critical enabler for attaining the sustainability goals of the Green deal in many different sectors. All its activities achieve their objectives in the most efficient and least burdensome way, respecting the green oath of "do no harm".
TerritorialAgenda2030 The project contributes to the fundamental objective of the Territorial Agenda 2030 to increase the well-being of citizens and their quality of life by reducing disparities (from those between neighborhoods to disparities between regions and countries) through the transnational approach that aims precisely to reduce disparities between the more developed and the less developed countries by attending know-how and sharing activities (seminars, study visits, knowledge transfer workshops, policy learning dialogues, etc). The main objective of the project is to jointly develop inspiring policies for social enterprises by involving local public authorities into the social enterprises supporting ecosystem in order to enhance inclusive employment in the Danube region while supporting the sustainable operation of social enterprises. It is in accordance with the purpose of the Territorial Agenda 2030 to promote an inclusive and sustainable future for all places and to help achieve Sustainable Development Goals in Europe. Working towards sustainable territorial cohesion and limiting inequalities between people and places require joint efforts, both from local public authorities and from different groups of society. Therefore, the project reflects very well this consideration of the strategy as the emphasis is on supporting the sustainable relationship between local public authorities, SEs and their ecosystem.
Other Social Economy Action Plan
Similar to the Social Economy Action Plan, the project clearly takes into account the fact that Covid19 has affected the way SEs work. The aim of the action plan to enhance social investment, support social economy actors and social enterprises to start-up, scale-up, innovate and create jobs coincides with the project's main objective to strengthen the development of the social economy by engaging local public authorities in the social enterprises supporting the ecosystem for a more inclusive labour market in the Danube region. Moreover, the project contributes to the objective of the Social Economy Action Plan because it will enhance SEs skills and capacity by developing 2 assessment tools for SE sector and providing training sessions for social entrepreneurs and local public authorities; improve visibility, recognition and collaboration with their ecosystem by the creating Danube Social Economy Network; increase the transnational cooperation between entities supporting the development of social economy and sharing the best practices learned in their territory.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 083 - Strategies and action plans jointly developed, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO84) Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects : 2.0
(RCO116) Jointly developed solutions: 2.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:
RCR 079 - Joint strategies and action plans taken up by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

ISI - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across the borders, Measurement unit: No. of organisations

Delivered result indicator(s):

Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across the borders: 2.0

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-12-17

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

138 / 138 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

1 413 / 1 413 (100%)

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Enhancing the development of Social Economy by engaging Local Public Authorities in the Social Enterprises supporting Ecosystem for a more inclusive Labor Market in the Danube Region

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Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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