The Ministry of Labor and Social Policy has launched a large-scale initiative to support social enterprises through a targeted program with a budget of 27 million leva, financed by the European Social Fund. The "Promoting Social Economy" operation provides unique opportunities for municipal structures, non-governmental organizations, and employers in the social sector.
The main objectives of the project include creating sustainable jobs for people in disadvantaged positions, reducing the risk of poverty and social isolation, as well as significantly improving the digital competencies of those employed in social enterprises.
The program envisages ambitious quantitative results - at least 1,282 participants to start work activities, including as self-employed individuals, and 605 people to acquire additional professional qualifications. Special emphasis is placed on inter-company collaboration through organizing joint seminars, exhibitions, and platforms for exchanging expert experience.
Financial support includes subsidizing new jobs under specific conditions. For employees in disadvantaged positions, 12-month support is planned, while for people with permanent disabilities, the period can reach up to 24 months. Within one project, employers have the opportunity to hire up to 10 new employees.
Additional benefits for new hires include psychological counseling, mentorship support, labor mediation, and specialized workplace training. An interesting condition is that support will also be provided to individuals who have completed specialties in the field of social entrepreneurship - regardless of whether the education was acquired in Bulgaria or abroad.
Parallel to this initiative, the Ministry of Labor plans to build 760 digital clubs in all Bulgarian regions. They will be equipped with computers and internet access, prioritizing service for people without their own technological capabilities.
Detailed application conditions and complete information are publicly accessible, making the program maximally transparent and accessible to potential beneficiaries.