PLOUTOS Mentor Workshop in Osijek, Croatia

The PLOUTOS project consortium gathered in Osijek, Croatia, for a comprehensive meeting aimed at reviewing project achievements, addressing technical matters, and outlining future steps. The meeting, hosted by local organisations Breza Youth Association and Centre for Peace, gave the opportunity to participants from various partner institutions to come together to exchange insights and updates. On the second day, September 21st, the spotlight was dedicated to the Mentor’s workshop and the implementation of the “Practise Business” Acceleration Program. 

Future Needs as the partner who create the “Practise Bussines” Acceleration Program organised the activities and hosted the agenda. A notable highlight was the active involvement of all mentors in implementing some of the primary Business Acceleration Program activities through role-playing scenarios. The participants engaged in hands-on training, equipping them with the skills necessary to implement these activities in their respective countries successfully.

Furthermore, the day featured a training led by the European Microfinance Network, that highlighted the pivotal role mentors play in fostering entrepreneurship and project success.  The agenda continued with insightful presentations, including Microloan Applications by SquareDev and in-depth elaborations on the Feasibility Study and PEST Analysis, both facilitated by Future Needs. This session provided partners with valuable insights and tools to enhance their understanding of these critical project components. Later in the day, the agenda delved into logistical aspects, with a presentation on Logistics Demand Forecasting by Future Needs. Tax Procedures and Payroll were explored in detail, with valuable insights provided by SquareDev. Finally, Halmstad University concluded the day’s discussions with a presentation on Research Tools, highlighting the technological resources available to support the project’s objectives.

Following three intensive days of meetings, it is evident that the PLOUTOS project meeting in Osijek served as a dynamic platform for partners to deepen their understanding of project components, collaborate on innovative approaches, and prepare for the implementation of pilots in their respective countries.