The Big Data for Smart Society Institute (GATE) hosted a “Next Gen Entrepreneurs Day” forum focused on guiding young entrepreneurs from initial concepts to successful market launches. The event emphasized developing entrepreneurial skills, accessing funding, and cultivating a sustainable innovation ecosystem within Bulgaria. Organizational partners included SIS Credit, the Fund of Funds, the Bulgarian Private Equity and Venture Capital Association, Sofia University, The Next Gen Speaks podcast, and Poland’s Microfinance Centre.
The forum was supported by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank’s InvestEU programme, as part of the Best Youth Startup in Bulgaria 2026 programme. GATE Institute head, Prof. Silvia Ilievas, noted the institute’s growth, stating that after applying for a scientific unit at Sofia University seven years ago, the team expanded to over 80 people and completed more than 30 European projects.
She highlighted GATE’s role in supporting Bulgaria’s entrepreneurial environment, citing the Horizon Europe project ExcellEnt, which connected local entrepreneurs with international ecosystems. During the event, Andriana Sukova, from the European Commission, reported that 4.3 million social organizations across the EU employ 11.5 million people, contributing to social cohesion and poverty reduction. She noted that guarantee instruments have mobilized an additional EUR 11.7 billion for social enterprise investment, supporting job creation.
Irena Mladenova, caretaker Minister of Innovation and Growth, advised that Bulgaria must foster a culture of risk-taking and learn from failures. Alexander Nenkov, from the Fund of Funds, addressed the opportunity presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, stating that developing young entrepreneurs is crucial for Bulgaria to advance alongside global economies. Nataliya Efremova, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Policy, framed entrepreneurship as a catalyst for societal change, positioning young people as key agents of transformation through innovation.
Topics: #entrepreneurs #forum #institute
The emphasis on moving from concept to actual market launch, especially regarding funding, is very valuable for emerging entrepreneurs.
What specific resources or mentorship opportunities are available to attendees after the forum concludes?