More information
Description
With the help of the EEA and Norway Grants The European Association for Social Innovation (EaSI) is running a project aimed at helping small and medium-sized businesses in the Maramureș region of Romania, particularly in rural areas. They plan to do this by teaching these businesses about sustainability, providing digital tools and training, and creating an interactive online map to showcase sustainable businesses. This map will increase the visibility of these businesses, promote knowledge sharing, and make it easier for consumers to support sustainable rural businesses. EaSI is a non-profit organization, and while their financial data for 2021 shows a narrow profit margin, they have experience in similar projects and a team of experts to ensure successful implementation. The project aims to instill sustainability values and foster connections among like-minded entrepreneurs in the region.
The main output of the project is increased business competitivness by increase visibility, foster knowledge sharing and connections, facilitate access to sustainable businesses, and provide a user-friendly experience that promotes transparency and convenience for both businesses and consumers.Ultimately, the project seeks to drive economic development, enhance sustainability, and empower SMEs to thrive in a digital and green economy, contributing to long-term viability and a more sustainable regional economy.
The project seeks to achieve these aims through a series of key activities, including:
- Project Management
- Project Publicity
- Exchange of Good Practices
- Capacity Building
This project also has a strong bilateral component. Both ACCFUNBM and CSR Innovative Solutions AS demonstrate strong competence and expertise in their respective fields. Through knowledge exchange and the development of a sustainability map, the project aims to empower SMEs and foster cooperation between Romania and Norway.
Summary of project results
The project undertaken by the European Association for Social Innovation (EaSI) aimed to address several key challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Maramures region of Romania. These challenges included difficulties in digitalization, a lack of knowledge about sustainable business models, and limited visibility and networking opportunities for rural businesses. The project sought to provide comprehensive courses to facilitate the digitalization process, educate entrepreneurs on circular economy values, and increase the visibility of sustainable businesses through an interactive map.
To achieve these goals, the project implemented various activities, such as the exchange of good practices, the development of a digital skills acquisition course, and an induction course on circular economy and sustainable values. These activities included study visits, the creation of an interactive online map, and the provision of training and mentoring programs for SMEs. The project also focused on disseminating knowledge and best practices through seminars, webinars, and a final conference, aiming to raise awareness and share the benefits of digitalization and sustainability.
The project involved several key activities aimed at promoting sustainability and digitalization among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Maramures region of Romania. One of the primary activities was the exchange of good practices and the development of an interactive online map to increase the visibility of sustainable businesses. This included conducting two study visits in Romania and Norway, where participants exchanged experiences and gathered information about the needs and interests of SMEs. The interactive map was designed to showcase sustainable businesses, with a goal of having at least 30 SMEs registered by the end of the project.
Another significant activity was the digitalization course for SMEs, which focused on providing a blended learning course to equip SMEs with theoretical knowledge and practical tools for digitalization. This course was piloted with the participation of 24 managers and staff from SMEs, helping them transition to an online presence and enhance their digital capabilities. The project also developed an induction course on circular economy and sustainable values, supporting SMEs in adopting a more sustainable business approach. This course included a mentoring program, where 16 participants received mentoring from sustainable business leaders for at least four months.
In addition to these courses, the project emphasized the dissemination of knowledge and best practices related to digitalization, circular economy, and sustainability. Various dissemination activities were conducted, including online and face-to-face seminars, webinars, and a final conference in Romania. These activities aimed to create awareness, share the benefits of digitalization and circular economy, and highlight the experiences of SMEs during the project. The project also developed a social media presence kit to promote the project results and engage with a wider audience.
The project achieved several significant outcomes and impacts, benefiting various stakeholders, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Maramureș region of Romania. One of the key results was the successful development and implementation of an interactive online map that increased the visibility of sustainable businesses. By the end of the project, at least 30 SMEs were registered on the map, providing them with a platform to attract clients and promote their sustainable practices.
The digitalization course for SMEs was another major achievement. This blended learning course equipped 24 managers and staff from SMEs with the necessary digital skills to enhance their online presence and improve their competitiveness. The course facilitated the creation of a national network of sustainable SMEs, fostering connections and knowledge sharing among businesses with common values. Additionally, the induction course on circular economy and sustainable values provided theoretical and practical support to SMEs, with 16 participants receiving mentoring from sustainable business leaders for at least four months.
Summary of bilateral results
The collaboration also led to the development of a sustainability map, which was based on the combined knowledge and expertise from both countries. This map addressed cultural and socio-economic differences, enabling better cooperation and contextualization. By providing tools and knowledge to enhance competitiveness, the project empowered SMEs in Romania to adopt sustainable practices and leverage digital technologies.