The project's primary aim is to offer opportunities for the integration of energy efficiency measures and the reduction of food waste in small Bulgarian food enterprises. This initiative builds upon the experience of the Foundation for Organic Agriculture Bioselena, which previously collaborated with Innovation Norway to implement a project focused on setting up an educational farm for organic agriculture. This prior project was part of the Norwegian Cooperation Programme (Norway Grants 2004-2009) and was dedicated to promoting organic agriculture by transferring knowledge and expertise. As a result, the current project seeks to leverage this background to create new training programs for young individuals and establish educational organic farms. To accomplish this, the project involves needs analysis, training, showcasing best practices, and offering on-site coaching and mentoring within the targeted enterprises.

The specific objectives of the project include:

  1. Enhancing entrepreneurs' comprehension of circular economy principles and energy efficiency.
  2. Strengthening the skills of micro-enterprise personnel in resource efficiency and waste reduction.
  3. Building administrative capabilities to develop and implement energy efficiency measures and circular economy models within enterprises.

With these objectives, the project aims to empower enterprises to adopt resource-efficient practices. In the short term, it seeks to increase the knowledge of managers and staff within these enterprises regarding energy-efficient production. Over the long term, the project aspires to see a growing number of enterprises embrace innovative measures, ultimately leading to reduced production costs and increased profitability.

Summary of bilateral results

The project fostered meaningful bilateral relations between Bulgarian and Norwegian stakeholders, primarily through the partnership between the Foundation for Organic Agriculture Bioselena and The Royal Norwegian Society for Development (Norges Vel). This collaboration generated the following key bilateral results:

1. Knowledge and Expertise Sharing

- Bulgarian enterprises were introduced to innovative Norwegian practices in energy efficiency and circular economy.

- Examples of successful Norwegian business models and environmentally friendly processes were shared during training sessions, including demonstrations of green solutions in Norway.

- Norges Vel contributed significantly to the curriculum design, ensuring it incorporated advanced concepts and practical examples from Norway.

- Norwegian experts participated in training sessions, enriching the content with international perspectives.

2. Strengthened Partnerships.

The long-standing relationship between Bioselena and Norges Vel was further reinforced through this project, building on prior collaborations (e.g., the "Energy efficiency and better milk quality for Bulgarian farmers" project). Both organizations demonstrated effective teamwork in delivering the project, paving the way for future joint initiatives. The project initiated discussions for new bilateral projects focusing on sustainable business practices, technology transfer, and green innovation.

3. Mutual Benefits.

Bulgarian micro food enterprises gained access to advanced knowledge and techniques that are more prevalent in Norway’s economy. They also gained insights into Norwegian approaches to renewable energy and circular economy and provided a framework for adapting these practices locally.

Norwegian businesses and experts expanded their influence in Bulgaria, promoting their methodologies and creating opportunities for future economic and technological collaboration.

Project details

Project info
Period
2014-2021
Approval date
Grant financing
88800.00€
Final project cost
100617.35€

Related

Programmes
Countries
  • Bulgaria