In times of rapid change and global challenges, the development and support of entrepreneurial ecosystems is becoming essential for the development of the future of the South-East region.
The project “Business ecosystem as an integrated system” – Be In aims to explore, improve and strengthen business optimism and innovation in our region. Precisely in the direction of developing the entrepreneurial spirit and the integration of innovations as an inevitable step towards a better and sustainable future, two study visits to Barcelona and Amsterdam were realized within the framework of the project.
The Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region had an incredible opportunity to look into the world of entrepreneurship and innovation and explore an integrated approach to business ecosystem development. These visits were an opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities brought about by global trends.
In Barcelona, we experienced the innovative spirit and entrepreneurial initiatives that make this city one of the most influential innovation centers in Europe. The visit to Barcelona Activa and other innovative institutions enriched us with knowledge and showed us a new way of supporting startups and entrepreneurs by national institutions.
In Amsterdam, we filled these days with a visit to the AMS Startup Institute for Advanced Metropolitan Solutions, the Startup Village, as well as the Nemo Science Museum. At the Fem Startup Awards, we followed the latest trends in the field of entrepreneurship.
Study visits to Barcelona and Amsterdam allowed us to get to know successful entrepreneurial ecosystems and innovations in other regions of Europe. We got to know the ideas and practices used by successful incubators, startups and entrepreneurs and the possibility to adapt them in our business ecosystem.
Apart from successful practices, we had the opportunity to determine the shortcomings in our entrepreneurial world. We learned about the importance of constant cooperation and communication with other institutions and organizations to share experiences and knowledge, investments and support in innovation and entrepreneurship at the local level, developing programs and trainings for young entrepreneurs and startups.
In order to apply the benefits of study visits, we are ready to make partnerships with relevant structures, turn ideas into projects and support young entrepreneurs and innovators. The work ahead is challenging, but we believe that with the right strategy and engagement, we can improve our business ecosystem and become part of the global entrepreneurial community.
The project is financed by the European Union and the National Funds of the participating countries through the Interreg IPA Program for cross-border cooperation between Greece – R. Macedonia 2014-2020.