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Description
The aim of the project Social Innovation Brokers (BIS) is to develop, in cooperation with a Norwegian partner, the assumptions and pilot introduction of professional training to prepare for work as Social Innovation Brokers. In partnership with the European Center for Women and Technology from Oslo, the concept of professional training for brokers will be developed in the design thinking and service design methodology. On this basis, an intensive vocational training course will be prepared and the first group of brokers will be prepared. We plan to prepare a group of 50 brokers. The benefit of the project is the creation of a support, development and dissemination mechanism for social innovations and social dialogue at the local and regional level. The benefits of implementing the project at the present time include focusing on activities supporting post-covid rehabilitation in social life. Social Innovation Brokers will be able to support the creation of new social, organizational and financial solutions in the preparation, planning, implementation and evaluation of social innovations. Thanks to the support of the Norwegian partner, an important element of vocational training will be the use of digital and technological tools facilitating the preparation and implementation of social innovations.
The potential long-term benefits of the project is the creation of a new specialization supporting the creation of social innovations and conducting social dialogue at the local and regional level.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to develop and implement vocational training for Social Innovation Brokers (SIBs), supporting social innovations at local and regional levels. In collaboration with ECWT from Oslo, the project aimed to enhance competencies and provide knowledge to future SIBs. Addressing the need for social innovation support, particularly post-COVID, the project developed mechanisms for creating and implementing social innovations and fostering social dialogue.
Project outcomes include the creation of a new support mechanism for social innovations and the development of social dialogue at local and regional levels. Participants gained unique skills and knowledge, enabling effective implementation of social innovations. An evaluation survey rated the training''s structure and usefulness at 4.36 out of 5. Participants presented their projects at prestigious events like Oslo Innovation Week, increasing their potential for international contacts and support. The SIB project has significant long-term importance. Creating a new professional specialization will increase the efficiency of introducing social innovations and strengthen social dialogue at local and regional levels. This project will enable more effective responses to future social challenges, crucial in the context of current and future social and health crises. Two conferences in Poland attracted over 280 participants, with more than 50 speakers, nearly 40 lectures and panel discussions, and 5 thematic workshops.
A vocational training concept for SIBs was created, including a 100-hour course of practical lectures, workshops, and mentoring projects, tested on 72 participants, with 28 completing it with certification. Available in Polish and English, the training program covers social innovation frameworks, identifying social challenges, and strategies for implementing and scaling projects. Additionally, a shortened youth course, a "Map of Common Didactic and Conceptual Issues," a "Pilot Implementation Report," and manuals for mentors and SIBs were developed.
Summary of bilateral results
Collaboration with ECWT from Norway brought numerous benefits that significantly contributed to the success of the "Social Innovation Brokers" project. First and foremost, the involvement of the Norwegian partner gave our activities an international dimension, which was crucial for achieving the project goals. Thanks to the cooperation with ECWT, project participants had access to the unique knowledge and experiences of Norwegian experts. This was particularly valuable in developing the training program and implementing innovative methods such as design thinking and service design. The Norwegian partner also introduced new perspectives and digital tools that greatly enriched the training program. ECWT facilitated connections between project participants and international experts and institutions. Participation in events such as Oslo Innovation Week and Diversify Nordics Summit allowed us to present our projects to a broad audience and exchange experiences with other professionals in the field of social innovation. Norwegian experts actively engaged in developing training materials, reports, and manuals, contributing to the high quality of the entire program.The collaboration with ECWT had broader effects that go beyond the direct outcomes of the project. Establishing lasting relationships with the Norwegian partner enabled us to develop competencies and knowledge that will be utilized in future projects. We plan to continue our cooperation with ECWT. Together, we have identified new areas where we can develop projects, such as further research on social innovations, the development of new training programs, and micro-credentials. The collaboration with ECWT has become an integral part of our development strategy, and we believe it will continue to bring tangible benefits to our communities and partners.