A Fascinating Tale of Arts and Crafts: The Journey of Two Visionary Entrepreneurs

We are thrilled to spotlight a remarkable story of entrepreneurial collaboration and artistic innovation, featuring Margarita Panayotova and Georgia Doetzer. Through the "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" program, these two dynamic women embarked on a transformative journey that opened new doors for their respective ventures.

Meet the Entrepreneurs:

New Entrepreneur:

• Name: Margarita Panayotova
• Country: Bulgaria
• Age: 25
• Company Name: Batcrafts
• Sector: Art Crafts

Host Entrepreneur:

• Name: Georgia Doetzer
• Country: Cyprus
• Age: 60
• Company Name: Rialto Cultural Center
• Sector: Performing Arts Theater
• Website: Rialto Cultural Center

The exchange, spanning from July 24, 2023, to October 24, 2023, was part of the "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs" program, designed to facilitate the sharing of knowledge, skills, and ideas between budding and seasoned entrepreneurs.

A Synergistic Collaboration:

Margarita, an ambitious young entrepreneur from Bulgaria, and Georgia, a seasoned cultural center director from Cyprus, found common ground through their passion for the arts. The program provided Margarita with a unique opportunity to gain practical insights into her business plan, guided by Georgia's extensive experience in the performing arts sector.

• Margarita Panayotova: “Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs brought me on a transformative journey, allowing me to collaborate with a visionary entrepreneur, expand my business skills, and establish connections that will resonate throughout my entrepreneurial career.”
• Georgia Doetzer: “Participating in Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs sparked a vibrant collaboration. As the host entrepreneur, I had the privilege of mentoring a creative mind, blending sustainable art into our cultural events, and building a relationship that ensures ongoing creativity and positive impact.”

The Collaborative Process:

The collaboration kicked off with an in-depth discussion about Margarita’s business idea, target audience, and desired outcomes. Georgia provided valuable feedback, while Margarita offered fresh perspectives on Georgia’s current marketing activities. Together, they explored ways to promote Margarita’s products, emphasizing the importance of animal welfare—a cause close to Margarita’s heart.

This joint effort exemplifies how the exchange of knowledge and experience can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes. By combining new perspectives with established methods, Margarita and Georgia showcased the potential for inspiring results.

Skills and Benefits:

The project facilitated the development of a wide range of skills essential for entrepreneurial success:

1. Event Coordination: Practical experience in planning, organizing, and executing events.
2. Marketing Strategies: Insights into effective marketing techniques and product promotion.
3. Product Development: Refinement of product development skills through collaborative efforts.
4. Networking: Expansion of professional networks, connecting with key stakeholders.
5. Leadership Skills: Cultivation of leadership qualities through active project management.
6. Financial Management: Practical experience in budgeting, expense tracking, and resource allocation.
7. Customer-Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong connections with clients and partners.
8. Project Management: Mastery of planning, execution, and evaluation from project inception to completion.
9. Digital Marketing: Proficiency in leveraging online platforms for broader audience reach.

A Vision for the Future:

Imagine a dynamic fusion of creativity and compassion: online art exhibitions where Margarita’s captivating art meets Georgia’s expertly orchestrated events dedicated to animal welfare. These exhibitions could transcend borders, captivating global audiences and fostering support for noble causes while generating revenue for both organizations.

Stay tuned for more inspiring success stories from the world of business!

AIWeeder is a fully autonomous weeding robot in the form of a light-weighted (70-80 kg), 4-wheeled electric engines rover, with photovoltaic panels on top, using 100% solar energy to power all onboard systems. The weeding modules are undermounted on a stable delivery system, allowing for precise weeds targeting. A down-facing camera captures images of plants, which are then analysed by Artificial Intelligence based on deep neural networks to distinguish weeds from cultivated plants and guide the weeding modules. The weeds are removed via contact (mechanical) or contactless (energy beam) weeding modules, depending on weed size, type and soil conditions. A front-facing camera aided by smart algorithms helps the robot self-navigate along the rows of plants. Off-the-shelf multi-GNSS (GPS, Galileo) navigation system, combined with both cameras inputs and support software, provides end-of-row turning capability and robust special orientation around the field. Several integrated devices ensure constant 2-way communication with a central company data and monitoring hub.

The proposed solution is very well-suited for weeding in all row crops under 1.2 m in height, giving us a huge market potential, both in EU but worldwide as well. We estimate the total market potential to be >€40B worldwide and €6.5B in EU only. We will however start with a well-chosen initial target market – herbal and aromatic plants and organic vegetable farmers in Southern Europe. Farmers in these regions are the most neglected by competitors both due to the difficulties of weather and terrain but also due to the relatively smaller sizes of farms. For us though this is a great opportunity to both rapid market growth and supporting the general EU trends of more eco-friendly agriculture and fighting the challenges of the climate change.

Our plans for the next 2 years include:

• refine our MVP and produce multiple prototypes to be able to launch an increasing number of field pilots
• further expand our early adopter network in summer and autumn with more organic herbal plants farmers and vegetable growers to diversify feedback and improve our solution's fit across various agricultural settings.
• sign pre-sales agreements with up to 10 farmers for spring 2025 to secure initial revenue in market launch.
• bolster our team by recruiting 10-15 specialists in engineering, software development and AI, enhancing our R&D capacity.
• increase market visibility through industry fairs and events participation, amplifying our outreach and forging strategic connections.
• following successful pilots, secure new investments to accelerate R&D, scale operations and expand team to solidify our leadership in autonomous weeding and field data analysis, with the aim of market launch in 2025.

Here you can see a movie/animation that shows the working principle of the robot at the levels: https://smartfarmrobotix.eu/share_files/SFRLongerVideo-v2.mp4

The program for one of the most renowned software testing conferences – SEETEST 2024, has been announced. The event will take place on September 26-27 in Zagreb, Croatia, and will once again be in a hybrid format – both live and virtual.

This year, the organizers promise high-quality content. The program consists of four tracks over both days. On the first day, eight half-day tutorial lectures will be held, and the second day will continue with two keynote lectures, as well as 20 presentations on various topics, selected by the Program Committee.

You can check out the full program at: https://bit.ly/3xAKSD9

Tickets for SEETEST 2024 are currently discounted by 20% until July 15, and fewer than 50 in-person tickets remain available. Virtual tickets are unlimited. Reserve your spot at: https://bit.ly/4byZwsF

𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗼𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗱 𝗨𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗹 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗥𝘂𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝘁!

Application period for the Silicon Eurocluster's Green Financial Support program for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the European electronics sector will remain open until all funds are allocated!This innovative program is designed to drive the sustainable transformation of SMEs by providing substantial financial support. Each qualifying SME can receive €3,600 to collaborate with external experts who will guide them through their green transformation journey.

🌱 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 A total of 25 SMEs will benefit from this initiative, aimed at fostering more sustainable business practices. With the application period extended until funds are exhausted, we encourage more SMEs to seize this opportunity and enhance their sustainability strategies. This is your chance to make a significant impact in areas such as:
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Waste Management and Recycling
Circular Economy Practices
And much more!

🔗 For more details on the application process and to apply, visit our website: https://lnkd.in/dyEvPBsU
Join us in taking a significant step towards a greener, more digital economy. Don’t miss this ongoing opportunity to advance your company's sustainable transformation with our expert-supported program!

Embrace the Green Revolution: Join Our B2GreenHub Ecosystem Today! 

Feeling the weight of impending sustainability regulations? You're not alone. With numerous companies across Europe and beyond striving to meet the stringent requirements of the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), it's understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed.   

Our B2GreenHub ecosystem is here to support you! Picture us as your trusted ally, guiding you through the complexities of green regulations and embracing a holistic approach to your company's green transition. Join us today, and together, let's navigate this journey, transforming compliance challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership in sustainability. 

Who are we? 

We're a powerhouse alliance of 106 leading EU institutions, supported by a diverse team of 150+ business experts and 200+ technical wizards pooling our talents across 7 groundbreaking EU projects valued at an impressive EUR 14.8 million. From esteemed universities to vibrant research centers and private advisory and project writing firms, our network offers diverse expertise to support your green initiatives. Think of us as your one-stop-shop for all things green.  

With our ecosystem, you'll tap into over 50 testing facilities and a wealth of 200+ technological solutions. Guiding you every step of the way are our dedicated key account managers, skilled in marketing, project proposal writing, market analysis, and B2B networking. And with our digital platform, B2GreenHub.eu, as your trusty companion, you'll breeze through your green transition with access to real-world case studies and detailed cost-benefit analyses. When you join our ecosystem, you're not just gaining access to resources; you're getting personalized support tailored to your unique needs. 

Who are we inviting to join us? 

We are inviting aspiring manufacturing companies looking to step out of the box and onto the green transition journey (startups, SMEs, and mid-caps) working in the following 7 sectors: Electronics; Food and beverage; Pharmaceutical and chemical; Metal; Plastics and rubber; Machinery and equipment; Building materials and furniture. 

What is in it for you? 

Join us on a journey towards sustainability, where selected companies from this open call will have the opportunity to embark on the green path with us. By joining our community, you'll enjoy a range of advantages, from increased production capacity, reduced business costs and risk, improved business predictability to improved product quality and accessibility to customers.  

Picture this: you'll be assigned a dedicated key account manager who will serve as your guide through every step of your green transition journey. Need an expert assessment of your performance? We've got you covered. Looking to craft a strategic roadmap? We've got experts for that too. From advisory support in LCA analysis to access to top-notch testing facilities and even proposal writing assistance, we're here to provide the expertise you need to succeed. But we don't stop there. We'll work closely with you to develop a concrete action plan, outlining specific activities in collaboration with top EU experts from various fields. And as you progress, we'll conduct impact assessments and provide ongoing guidance to ensure you're on track towards sustainability. 

Here's how to get started: 

1. Join our community by sharing your company information.

1. Assess your company's readiness for digital and green initiatives and gain insights by comparing with peers in your sector. 

1. Receive personalized guidance and support from your chosen key account manager who will assist you in identifying, implementing, and scaling sustainable solutions via a tailored roadmap. 

1. Explore our services, including: 

1. support of top EU digital and green experts specializing in AI, blockchain, LCA analysis, carbon footprint reduction strategies, and more,  

1. access to state-of-the-art testing facilities and specialized equipment, access to the latest digital and green technology solutions, 

1. tap into funding opportunities and receive assistance in preparing project proposals, 

1. engage in experimentation and prototype development for green solutions to save costs and boost efficiency. 

1. Connect with a vast ecosystem of like-minded companies, experts, facilitators, and policymakers through our platform, B2GreenHub.eu, currently under development. 

1. Stay at the forefront of innovation and best practices, exchanging experiences and insights with industry leaders in navigating green challenges. 

1. Evaluate the impact of your strategies and refine them to stay ahead in sustainability practices. 

Still not convinced? Here's why we're your trusted green ally: 

Mix 'n' Match: With a team of 150 facilitators from diverse backgrounds and 200 experienced green tech experts, we've got all the ingredients for a recipe for success. 

Hold Your Hand: We won't just toss you into the deep green end; we'll be there every step of the way. 

Holistic Approach: We're not just about saving the trees; we're about saving your wallet too. Because let's face it - circular is the new square. 

Walking the Green Talk: Countless success stories and best practices speak volumes about our green track record of achieving results. 

Ready to join us? Apply and start your green journey: https://lnkd.in/eiqXjyzC

Deadline: 

Apply by sharing your company information  before the deadline on 30 June 2025. 

The call remains open until this date, with three intermediate cut-off dates:  

• 1^st cut-off: 31 July 2024,  
• 2^nd cut-off: 30 September 2024,  
• 3rd cut-off:  30 June 2025, if places are still available.  

Early applications are highly recommended, as they will be reviewed after each cut-off date for selection in pilot activities. 

The ICT Cluster is thrilled to announce its participation in the Call4Ideas - Partnerships for Horizon Europe initiative once again! Join us for the 6th edition of our online event, "Partnerships for Horizon Europe," which will shine a spotlight on smart cities topics.

If you're:

• Interested in Horizon Europe calls related to smart cities and communities,
• Building a consortium to present a proposal,
• Searching for partners to collaborate with,

REGISTER NOW: https://lnkd.in/eZ-SzCaH

Goals and Benefits for Participants:

✅ Create contacts and partnerships aimed at presenting proposals to the Horizon Europe calls.

✅ Receive information about trends, facts, R&D&I interests related to smart cities and communities.

✅ Publish and showcase your project ideas, competences, and expertise to all participants.

✅ Initiate and arrange promising pre-scheduled 1:1 meetings at the event.

✅ Generate and meet new contacts in a time and cost-efficient way, with common interests.

Dates: 📌 20th June - Presentation of keynote speakers, project ideas, and company competences. 📌 21st June - Panel of Municipalities and presentation of project ideas and company competences. 📌 June 20th – July 5th - Online brokerage event (1:1 meetings)

⌛ Deadline: 15/05/24

Be a Speaker! 📣 Register by 22nd May and stand a chance to be selected as one of the speakers. You'll have the opportunity to present your ideas and competences during one of the morning sessions.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the advancement of smart cities and communities through Horizon Europe!

On the 28^th and 29^th of March 2024, was held this year's edition of ICT Cluster’s SCALE UP event – SCALE UP WEB.
Read more and use the link for the video recording and presentation of the event.

📌 The Open Call is open from 15th March 2024 until Thursday 16 May 2024 , 17:00 CEST !

Suppose you are a Small or Medium Enterprise (SME) and start up working on Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Blockchain (BC) technologies , from the digital ,manufacturing, mobility, logistics or energy industrial ecosystem.

✅ In that case ,this Open Call is perfect f or you !

The Mission is aims to provide insights and tools regarding new business models from data and to develop potential collaborations and cooperation opportunities with different stakeholders in the AI and BC fields from the United States .Be ready to take your business and make valuable connections in the AI and BC fields.

📲 Ready to join the movement, visit the link : https://piemonteinnova.it/bandi/aibc-international-mission-austin/?lang=en&fbclid=IwAR0v5rsK688ZqyvXpuA3vzAwIM7rv3iKNWTPq2mPyy8q9FOIbNF467A7LFk_aem_AULohhT4FOJQNRyQIDyxBslvGWytgEgjBPU8mtR4LxhC3WumFzcYEZHKvIucBtdYBijWQwtTkjKJu3eW1s5zlNpM

𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱-𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗠𝗘𝘀!
Is your business on the lookout for opportunities to enhance your team's knowledge on crucial green topics such as energy efficiency, circular economy or environmental compliance? Are you eager to create a sustainability roadmap that will guide your journey towards a more sustainable future? Or perhaps your SME is set to undertake a comprehensive life cycle analysis to check its environmental footprint?
𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗶𝘁𝘀!
Dive into our latest call for applications and discover a network of experts ready to guide your company through its green transition or bring your own green expert that will support your company on your way. Receive €3600 to fund your SME's sustainability consultancy with one of our green experts. Apply now! And present one of your initiatives or projects related to ESG - choose your favourite green expert from our catalogue or bring your own one. Discover which are the rules and services that can be covered in our dedicated website: https://lnkd.in/dyEvPBsU
𝗔𝗰𝘁 𝗦𝘄𝗶𝗳𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝘅𝗶𝗺𝘂𝗺 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁
It is a "first in, first served" approach which means that you should not wait until the last minute as we will cover 25 project under this mechanism designed to elevate your sustainability initiatives. Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers. The last day for applications is the 30th of April. Ensure your company is positioned to benefit from this unique offer.
🔗 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗡𝗼𝘄 & 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 🔗
Check the link attached to find more information on how to embark on this transformative journey and how to apply for our open call.

On February 20-21, 2024, the Danube DNA project kick-off meeting took place in the city of Novi cad, Serbia.  The event was attended by Anna Naydenova and Todor Mitov, from ICT Cluster, which is a partner in the project, and Mr. Nejmi MyuminHodjov, deputy mayor of Ardino municipality, associate partner.

The first day of the meeting was dedicated to a general presentation of the partners and the project activities. The specific activities for the first period were also shown.

In the transformation of small and medium-sized production enterprises from the Danube region, through the creation of a network of centers for the transfer of knowledge and technologies. The project is co-financed under the Danube Interreg program.

The second day was an official ceremony of signing the partnership agreement on the project.

Danube DNA is a project promoting the digital and sustainable transformation of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises from the Danube region, through the creation of a network of knowledge and technology transfer centers. The project is co-financed under the Danube Interreg program.

The application deadline is March 15 , 2024 !

We are pleased to present to your attention the story of the successful exchange of the budding entrepreneur Bogomil Neikov and the host entrepreneur Hans Dan.

The exchange was carried out under the "Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs " program, which provided an opportunity for the two participants to embark on a transformative journey that would help them create new contacts ,exchange ideas and experience and create opportunities for new future collaborations.

Bogomil Neikov is a budding entrepreneur in the field interior design , and a Hans Dan is an established specialist and expert in the field. The common passion for interior design met the two entrepreneurs in the month of May 2023.The novice entrepreneur is motivated to improve his skills , develop an entrepreneur is willing to share his knowledge and experience .

The main goals that the budding entrepreneur is focused on during the exchange are : 

- Expanding knowledge in computer skills ,3D modeling ,budgeting and communications skills.

- Turning your design sketches into real paintings 

- Collaborations with various professionals - from architects and engineers to clients.

- Market trend research 

- Creating a successful interior design company

For the host entrepreneur ,the desired outcomes are:

- Improving your mentoring skills 

- Support for the novice entrepreneur in gaining practical experience 

- Acquaintance with the least software programs and effective methods of attracting customers that will contribute to the development of his own business.

 During their participation in the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs program , the budding entrepreneur and the host entrepreneur participated in the various activities to promote professional development. 

They built a "mentor-mentee " relationship , working closely together to develop the budding entrepreneur's skills in interior design and entrepreneurship.

During the 6 month exchange ,the NP actively participated in client meetings helping him gain insight into preferences ,interior styles and color schemes .Conducting consultations on the selection of materials ,furnishings and decor contributes to the development of  the novice entrepreneur's practical experience and understanding of the initial requirements of the project.

Improving the computer skills of the budding entrepreneur has been achieved through working with design software and 3D modeling tools .

The host entrepreneur also hones skills in document management ,scheduling ,project risk identifications and budgeting .

The professional relationship built by the two entrepreneurs is the reason why the exchange of experience was successful .

Hans Dann provided mentoring and Bogomil Neikov actively participated in real design projects. The collaborations gave Bogomil the opportunity to gain practical experience and knowledge in the field of interior design and to develop his creative eye for detail. Hans honed his mentoring skills and expanded his industry network .

The joint work between Bogomil Neikov and Hans Dann is a prerequisite for future cooperation.

💬 "...This experience provided me with the skills and knowledge I needed to develop as an entrepreneur in the world of interior design.. - Bogomil Neikov"

💬 "... Seeing the growth and development of the budding entrepreneur first- hand knowing , that I played part in it ,was really satisfying .. " - Hans Dan

 🗓️ 29 November  ⏰14:00-15:15 CET

Изразяваме категоричната си позиция против въвеждането на автоматична формула за ежегодно увеличение на максималния осигурителен праг (МОД).