Connecting young people and entrepreneurship for the future of the European Capitals of Culture

The "ECoCNetwork" project aims to improve the cohesion and inclusiveness of the European Capitals of Culture by creating a network of participating institutions from the European Capitals of Culture, including Bad Ischl in Austria, Tartu in Estonia, Bodø in Norway, Chemnitz in Germany, Nova Gorica in Slovenia, Oulu in Finland, and Evora in Portugal. The purpose of the project is to learn about the dynamics of involving different institutions in the European Capitals of Culture, exchange knowledge on how to involve different institutions, especially interprises and youth. With a perspective of preparation and implementation of the European Capitals of Culture, an event was organized to bring together business support organizations, SMEs (green, cultural-creative, digital) and youth from the 8 ECC2024-2027 countries. 

A network of partners from 8 countries (Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Estonia, Norway, Germany, Finland) was established, connecting offices of the European Capitals of Culture, SMEs and young people. Partners participated in three online meetings to exchange knowledge on the inclusion of the economy, the creative sector and young people in the activities of the European Capitals of Culture. An international event was organized bringing together representatives of the offices of the European Capitals of Culture, SMEs and young people from eight countries. The hackathon and networking activities focused on finding solutions for linking the economy and the creative sector and for involving young people in the activities of the European Capitals of Culture. The round table enabled discussion with stakeholders and decision-makers. A study visit to the cross-border area was also organised. 

A set of recommendations was prepared for more effective involvement of SMEs and young people in the activities of the European Capitals of Culture. The recommendations promote innovation, cross-sector cooperation and contribute to the development of a shared cross-border area and sustainable social development.

Read the recommendations here: ECoCNetwork recommendations brochure