2nd Transnational Learning Event and Transnational Stakeholders Group Meeting in Moldova

 On June 12th-13th, 2024, the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA) successfully hosted the 2nd Transnational Learning Event and the 1st Transnational Stakeholders Group Meeting in Chisinau, Moldova. This dynamic event brought together over 45 participants from partnering organizations and stakeholders, eager to explore initiatives supporting the digital and circular transition.

The first day was packed with informative sessions about projects and initiatives aimed at fostering digital and circular entrepreneurship.

• SME GREENING Programme: From 2020 to 2024, over 743 individuals received training, and more than €900,000 in grants were approved to support the green transition of Moldavian businesses.
• Women in Business Support Program: Running since 2016, this initiative has provided financial and non-financial support to over 760 women entrepreneurs in Moldova.
• Women Entrepreneurship in Circular Economy: This program, part of the SME Greening Programme, focuses on training, workshops, and technical assistance to help entrepreneurs adopt eco-friendly practices. Key areas include energy efficiency, waste management, sustainable sourcing, and green marketing.

Good practices presented by IREAS:

• Academy for Entrepreneurial Women: The first Czech good practice presented by IREAS - Institute for Structural Policy, o.p.s. It is an initiative of CzechInvest (Business and Investment Development Agency). An important element of the success of the Academy, besides the attractive themes, is the quality of the content delivered by expert speakers. In 2024, the Academy focuses on topics that reflect the dynamics of modern entrepreneurship, including how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT affect business strategies.
• Up2Circ: An international project funded by the European Commission's Horizon Europe programme - Horizon 2.4 - Digital, Industry and Space. The project aims to accelerate and scale up the transition of European SMEs towards a circular economy. Even though it is not specifically targeted at women entrepreneurs, IREAS considers that the methodological approach of supporting companies for circular transition could be used as a good example.
• Women in Tech (Czech Republic): A remarkable initiative aimed at empowering women in the technology sector. It is an initiative of Huawei (Huawei Technology Society). The national partner is VUPI (Research Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, z.ú.), which operates under the Chamber of Commerce of the Czech Republic. The programme has successfully provided women with the tools and confidence they need to navigate and excel in the technology industry.

On the second day, the members of the Transnational Stakeholders Group met for the first time. Project partners were excited to learn more about the members of the Advisory Board, nominated by each national stakeholder group and associated strategic partners.

After the introduction, the first insights from the 12 National Skills Gaps and Needs Analysis were presented. The main training and support needs per country were outlined, as well as the motivational factors for digital and circular transition, and recommendations for improvement.

A brainstorming session was organized in four groups, with participants working both onsite and online. The results from these group sessions will serve as a foundation for the further development of the WE.Circular training programme, WE.Circular Labs, and the Transnational Strategy for WE Circular Transition.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all partners and participants for their contributions, making this event a resounding success. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to drive sustainable and digital transitions for women entrepreneurs in the Danube region!