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Description
The Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) strives to bolster the local economy by championing innovation and fostering a modern entrepreneurial culture. As a vital intermediary organization, RCCI promotes knowledge transfer, effective partnerships, and international collaboration. However, many businesses in the region express a readiness to embrace sustainable and green practices, but often lack the specific knowledge and dedication required.
The project''s central aim is to introduce sustainable green practices to the Ruse region by transferring Norwegian expertise and enhancing the capabilities of SMEs to implement them effectively. The focus will be on sustainable green solutions, spanning themes like business models, eco-innovation, the circular economy, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Environmental Social & Governance standards. Through training, coaching, self-diagnostic tools, and the exchange of best practices and know-how between Bulgaria and Norway, the project will create opportunities for capacity building and skill development. Additionally, it will explore social innovation policy approaches, promoting interaction among various sectors. Ultimately, the project''s primary objective is to empower SME employees, enabling them to become "Green Change Agents."
The project''s key activities include:
- Knowledge transfer & establishment of networks
- Capacity Building
- Project Management
- Project Publicity
The bilateral relations between RCCI and Prios has already been established prior to the project. Both organizations have been in close cooperation in order to identify and select the project activities that will suit and enrich the work of the organizations taken as a whole. The project will be just the first step in the establishment of long-term partnership and future collaborations not only for both parties, but also for other Bulgarian and Norwegian policy-makers and stakeholders.
Summary of project results
RCCI faces significant challenges in its mission to foster innovation and enable green transitions for local businesses in the Ruse region. These obstacles primarily stem from a lack of knowledge, resources, and readiness among local companies.
Key Challenges:
Knowledge and Competence Gaps: While businesses are eager to adopt sustainable practices, many lack the technical skills and expertise necessary for implementation.
Uncertainty on Initial Steps: Companies often find it difficult to navigate the complexities of sustainability concepts like circular economy and eco-innovation, leaving them unsure where to begin.
Limited Access to Training and Tools: The absence of targeted training programs and practical resources restricts businesses from building the capacity needed for green transformation.
Market Integration Difficulties: Aligning green practices with market demands, regulations, and certifications presents additional challenges for businesses, particularly smaller enterprises.
Resource Constraints: Financial and time limitations make it challenging for SMEs to invest in sustainability efforts, despite their willingness to do so.
Through training initiatives, self-diagnostic tools, and cross-border knowledge exchange, RCCI is addressing these barriers and helping businesses embark on their sustainability journey. However, continued focus on capacity-building and tailored support remains essential for overcoming these challenges effectively.
The project aimed to empower the Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) to provide sustainable, green solutions related to business models, eco-innovation, circular economy, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and Environmental Social & Governance (ESG) standards. Key activities included capacity building, training, and collaboration between Bulgarian and Norwegian entities.
Key Activities and Outputs:
- Knowledge Transfer & Network Establishment: A study visit to Norway was conducted to showcase "best green innovative practices" among Norwegian SMEs, promoting the exchange of knowledge and practices between Bulgaria and Norway.
- Development of Training Materials and Resources: Creation of a comprehensive set of training resources, including:
- Digital SME Green Transition Assessment Tool: A self-diagnostic tool for assessing SMEs'' readiness for green transformation.
- Green Change Agents Handbook: A guide to inspire and support SMEs in adopting sustainable practices.
- Upskilling Program: A structured program to enhance skills related to green innovation and implementation.
- Capacity Building of RCCI & SMEs: A “train-the-trainers” program was organized to build RCCI''s capacity for implementing and maintaining an upskilling program focused on developing Green Change Agents within SMEs.
- Regional and National Collaboration and Sustainability: Two webinars were held in Bulgaria and Norway to raise awareness about the importance of Green Change Agents and their benefits, fostering regional and national collaboration.
Outputs:
Enhanced RCCI''s capability to support green transformation among its members.
- Created opportunities for SMEs to adopt green practices through training and knowledge sharing.
- Established lasting partnerships between Bulgarian and Norwegian SMEs to sustain the green initiatives.
- Produced educational tools and programs that provide SMEs with the knowledge and skills to implement eco-innovative solutions.
The project achieved significant outcomes, fostering green innovation and circular economy practices among SMEs and their stakeholders in Bulgaria and Norway. The primary beneficiaries were SMEs, RCCI, and policy stakeholders, who gained tools, knowledge, and networks to drive sustainable transformation.
Key Outcomes and Impacts:
Digital SME Green Transition Tool: A self-diagnostic tool was developed and tested with 15 SMEs in the Ruse region, helping companies assess their readiness for green innovation and circular economy practices.
Knowledge Exchange through Study Visit: Six SME decision-makers from at least three sectors participated in a peer study visit to Norway, gaining exposure to the best green innovative practices.
Green Practice Strategy Handbook: A comprehensive strategy handbook was developed for the Ruse region, providing actionable guidelines for SMEs to adopt sustainable practices.
Capacity Building at RCCI: Three RCCI trainers were equipped to independently conduct local and regional training programs for “Green Change Agents,” ensuring ongoing capacity building.
Green Change Agents Upskilling: At least 20 participants from SMEs completed a 30-hour blended learning program to become Green Change Agents, gaining skills in green innovation and implementation.
Follow-up Workshops: Two workshops were conducted to monitor and support the implementation of skills by the newly trained Green Change Agents.
Policy and Awareness Initiatives: Two awareness-raising webinars were held in Bulgaria and Norway, showcasing the role and benefits of Green Change Agents. A final event was organized, engaging policymakers from industry and government, promoting green policies and practices.
Beneficiaries:
SMEs in Bulgaria: Benefitted from tools, training, and strategies to initiate green transformation and enhance competitiveness.
- RCCI: Gained enhanced capacity to support its members in sustainability efforts and to offer ongoing green innovation training.
- Norwegian and Bulgarian Stakeholders: Strengthened partnerships and networks, fostering bilateral cooperation and creating opportunities for future collaboration.
- Policy Makers: Engaged in discussions about integrating green practices into broader economic and governance frameworks.
This project created a lasting impact by equipping SMEs and RCCI with the resources and expertise needed for sustainable growth, fostering international collaboration, and contributing to the global green transition agenda.
Summary of bilateral results
The collaboration between RCCI and Prios Kompetanse was highly effective, characterized by seamless communication that ensured the project’s smooth execution. This partnership brought numerous bilateral benefits, including enhanced expertise in circular economy and sustainability, mutual contributions to promoting sustainable practices, and increased visibility and reputation for both organizations. It facilitated valuable knowledge exchange, network expansion, and the establishment of beneficial contacts with Norwegian entities. The synergistic partnership amplified the project’s impact, paving the way for future collaborations and reinforcing their shared commitment to social responsibility and innovation in sustainability.