In January 2016, CEED Bulgaria, in close partnership with Innovation Norway, started a four months project focused on Green Innovations and Business Models for SMEs in Bulgaria. A 2-module training program based on best practices and examples from Norway was developed by Norwegian and Bulgarian experts. More than 200 SMEs and entrepreneurs from the country were trained and improved their knowledge on green innovations and business modeling.
The participants were introduced to many green concepts and opportunities that were aimed at helping their businesses grow by attracting new clients. Best practices from Norway showcased the importance and the positive effect of being “green”, as well as inspired the entrepreneurs to become more environmentally-friendly, in addition to being competitive and sustainable.
The best green innovative ideas were presented during a Green Demo Day organized by CEED Bulgaria at the end of the project. More than 30 shortlisted ideas competed in front of a jury of Norwegian and Bulgarian experts and investors. Six finalists got awarded with a business trip to Norway, as well as with a financial support for implementing their green ideas. In April, the group travelled to Oslo, Norway to meet with potential partners and clients and to exchange best practices with organizations related to green projects.
CEED Bulgaria builds sustainable partnerships with foreign experts and organizations and believes that sharing good practices with more developed countries makes a difference for CEED entrepreneurs and shortens the time of reaching the next stage of their business growth.
