Sofia Development Association has published its National Action Plan that maps out the establishment and development of a National Competence Centre for Social Innovation in Bulgaria under the “Social Innovation Plus – Competence Center” project. The project focuses on preparing the groundwork for national social innovation competence centers. These centers are strategically positioned to support Managing Authorities in planning and implementing subsidy programs aimed at boosting social innovation. Additionally, they provide valuable support to social innovators, enabling them to maximize the benefits derived from these programs. Moreover, through networking and knowledge exchange activities, the competence centers assist other centers in becoming more effective in their respective fields.
The establishment of national competence centers for social innovation has become a significant endeavor supported by the European Commission, aimed at fostering social innovation across the European Union. Among the six projects backed by the Commission, SI PLUS stands out as a pioneering initiative. Over a period of two years, from May 2021 to July 2023, SI PLUS brought together social innovation organizations, research centers, ESF managing authorities, and other partners to design and develop competence centers.
The full Action Plan can be found HERE.
The SI PLUS project is funded by the EUROPEAN COMMISSION, European Social Fund and European Programme for Employment and Social Innovation.