Mountain walk in Slovenia: discover how Cohesion Policy supports Maja

In Slovenia, would-be entrepreneurs can benefit from numerous opportunities thanks to the European Cohesion Policy. Maja is an imaginary character created by Montana174 project, whose intention is to showcase real projects financed by the 2014-2020 Cohesion Policy for would-be entrepreneurs in mountain areas.

Discover with her from what initiatives local citizens can benefit in her mountain area:

1. PONI: a training programme for aspirant entrepreneurs!

Launched by the Regional Development Agency for Podravje – Maribor, the PONI project supports Slovenian would-be entrepreneurs to start their own business. To this end, the project offers a 4-months’ training programme for aspirant entrepreneurs. Participants can learn how to develop their business ideas, how to produce a business model and a business plan. In addition, participants can also use the physical infrastructure (like shared offices) and equipment (such as office equipment, computer, printer, projector, office accessories) of the project, in order to start working on their business idea. Moreover, participants can also get a financial support to pay their own salary and therefore work full-time on the development of their business idea.

2. Zeleno za Zeleno: supporting new green jobs

The Green for Green (Zeleno za Zeleno) project is a leading example of the establishment of green jobs in the field of herbalism. Located in a small village of Gornji Grad in Upper Savinja Valley, this project renovated empty premises around the Upper Castle Cathedral and the municipal building for the purpose of carrying out herb processing and sales activities. Two young ladies, Amanda and Maja, are currently taking care of the newly established herbal business. Next to the business premises, they have built their own herbal garden, that they use for sale in the nearby shop. In addition, educational programmes are organised to teach schools and tourists about herbalism.

3. Dogaja se! Multi-generational centre

The multi-generational centre “It’s happening!” (Dogaja se!) was opened in Radlje ob Dravi, Slovenia. This centre has multiple objectives, from ensuring social inclusion of different social groups (like families, adults, kids, migrants), to provide a stimulating environment that enables all-round personal growth and the acquisition of skills and competences for quality and full life. Several activities are organised by this centre. Activities range across opportunities to socializing and meetings, to developing different competencies and skills, information to users about social hardships and problems, raising the quality of life.

Have a look at how Maja experienced Cohesion Policy in her mountain walk (available in English and Slovenian).