EICEE Study Visit in Croatia: New Ideas and Partnerships

In the closing months of 2023, amidst the unfolding tragedies and somber atmosphere in Macedonia, ARNO embarked on a transformative study visit to Croatia as part of the EICEE – Western Balkan Eco Innovation and Circular economy Ecosystem project. Despite the delay in sharing this journey, the insights gained during the visit hold immense significance for the future of social enterprises and circular economy initiatives in North Macedonia. What better way to kick off the new year than with stories that ignite inspiration and motivation. Explore the full story here and join us on our social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok) for visual impressions.

Unveiling Croatia’s Innovations: A Study Visit Journey
In early December, ARNO’s team immersed themselves in a rich exploration of Rijeka, Split, and Dubrovnik, uncovering innovative models and collaborative approaches in the Croatian landscape. The journey aimed to strengthen ties, gather knowledge, and lay the groundwork for impactful initiatives back home, thanks to the EICEE project.

• First Sushak Gymnasium: A Lesson in Social Economy The visit to the First Sushak Gymnasium in Rijeka revealed a heartwarming Christmas Market project – a social economy initiative organized by the students. The funds generated were dedicated to supporting students from marginalized groups, providing a shining example for potential adoption in North Macedonia. ARNO and the Gymnasium have been collaborating since 2017, facilitating an organic flow of information about the developments over the years. The discussions also explored potential future partnerships, receiving full support for the EICEE project from the FSG team. They pledged to visit the Regional Awareness Centre once open and actively participate in presenting their positive examples. Another noteworthy point of discussion acknowledged the potential of mapping and enrolling alumni students who have excelled in social and green entrepreneurship into the EICEE component dedicated to promoting positive examples.
• Riperaj – Championing Circular Economy Riperaj, operating under the Communal Hygiene Enterprises “Cistoca,” unveiled a groundbreaking repair shop concept that harmonizes with the 3R principles (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle). ARNO envisions integrating this model into the upcoming Regional Awareness Center. The host disclosed that since its inception, Riperaj has successfully repaired over 5,000 items, making a substantial contribution to environmental protection. The Repair Shop concept seamlessly aligns with the tenets of 3R products. Within the Riperaj space, diverse courses are conducted, teaching the use of tools like drills and sewing machines. Moreover, the facility hosts educational sessions on environmental protection for preschool kids. Residents of Rijeka enjoy complimentary access to the repair tools, thanks to the generous financial backing of the Communal Hygiene Enterprises “Cistoca,” covering all operational costs, salaries, and necessary materials for the sustainable functioning of the repair shop.
• Priprema Pozor SMART: Volunteerism and Sustainability During a two-hour visit to Pozor SMART, a leading coaching consulting organization in non-profit management, the EICEE project members explored past and ongoing projects. Despite the Smart team’s busy preparations for International Volunteer Day, they shared valuable insights into projects aligning with EICEE’s goals, emphasizing civil society development and community engagement. Noteworthy was a board game, “Zadnja Sansa” (Last Chance), educating youth on Sustainable Development Goals. SMART also presented potential co-funding opportunities for EICEE, with calls for proposals that resonate with the project’s needs, particularly for the Regional Awareness Centre. The hosts expressed eagerness to connect EICEE with local entrepreneurs fostering positive social economy concepts.
• STEM Initiatives at CTK, Rijeka: A Glimpse into the FutureThe EICEE team’s visit to the Centre for Technical Culture (CTK) was both enlightening and inspiring. Formerly known as “Narodna Tehnika,” CTK serves as a community hub fostering a desire for research and knowledge. The team received engaging games, like “MIND OVER METER,” as gifts, which will be utilized in upcoming project activities. The focus on STEM programs, impressive electronic laboratories, and discussions on 3D printer usage for repairs left a lasting impression. The visit also sparked potential collaboration between ARNO and local institutions, like “Narodna Tehnika” in Skopje, for mutual knowledge-sharing and benefit.
• Udruga SUNCE, Split: A Commitment to Environmental ProtectionUdruga SUNCE in Split showcased its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability through volunteer programs, a wardrobe exchange bazaar, and the “Bring and Fix” fair – aligning seamlessly with EICEE’s draft advocacy plan.
• Permakultura Dalmacija, Split: Urban Permaculture Initiatives Permakultura Dalmacija in Split introduced the team to urban permaculture, emphasizing the significance of repair cafes and the engagement of volunteers – leaving a lasting impression on ARNO’s vision.
• CEDRA’s Focus on Revitalizing Unused Spaces: A Collaborative Approach The study visit concluded with a meeting at CEDRA, ARNO’s EU partners in the EICEE project. CEDRA’s emphasis on revitalizing unused spaces and their interest in collaborating on international platforms resonated with ARNO’s goals.
• Majeutika DOO – Red History Museum: Merging Sustainability and Social Impact Majeutika DOO’s Red History Museum in Dubrovnik showcased an innovative concept that combines sustainability with a social mission, offering complimentary tours to schoolchildren – aligning with ARNO’s commitment to storytelling.
• World Congress for Entrepreneurs 2023 (WCE2023): A Prestigious CulminationThe study visit culminated in the prestigious World Congress for Entrepreneurs 2023 in Dubrovnik. ARNO’s impactful mission was recognized with the esteemed ‘Young Creators of the Century’ award, highlighting the organization’s outstanding contribution to entrepreneurship development in the region. At WCE2023, ARNO’s President and an EICEE project team member showcased the organization’s impactful work, emphasizing the EICEE project and the upcoming Regional Awareness Centre. During the event, the EICEE team engaged in five successful B2B meetings with organizations spanning Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Slovenia, and North Macedonia. Discussions with private sector representatives focused on cross-sectoral collaboration, green skills, ESG practices, and potential long-term sponsorship for the Awareness Center. Conversations with regional companies delved into policy, labor market needs, and the sharing of inspirational stories. Meetings with NGO colleagues aimed at aligning projects, understanding donor trends, and exploring mutual integration of the EICEE project into their initiatives.

Conclusion: A Success in Knowledge and Collaboration

ARNO’s study visit to Croatia has proven to be a success, marked by the acquisition of valuable knowledge and fruitful collaborations. The insights gained during the visit are set to play a crucial role in advancing social enterprises and the circular economy in North Macedonia. As the EICEE project progresses into its next phase, ARNO is dedicated to applying these learnings and recommendations, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on the region’s socio-economic landscape.