The Rector of Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" Prof. Dr. Georgi Valchev, and the Mayor of Bansko Municipality, Stoycho Banenski, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between the two institutions.

The document outlines plans to enhance career development and opportunities for students from various faculties of Sofia University through on-site visits to Bansko Municipality, meetings with experts, internships, pre-graduation training, and other initiatives. It also aims to improve the quality of education for students and doctoral candidates through public lectures, discussions, and joint initiatives of mutual interest.

Sofia University and the Municipality of Bansko will collaborate on updating curricula for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, including introducing new courses and specializations. They will organize joint events, training sessions, courses, competitions, and other initiatives of shared interest. Both institutions will apply for projects and programs in areas of mutual interest, host public events to showcase best practices and increase awareness in relevant areas, and strengthen international cooperation with neighboring countries. Additional areas of collaboration include providing student internships and visits, as well as career guidance and motivation for Sofia University students, and conducting specialized joint training, round tables, conferences, and other events tailored to practical needs, including postgraduate education programs.

The upcoming initiative “BANSKO SKIPRENEURSHIP LAB” was also discussed during the meeting. Organized by Innovation Hub Bansko, Sofia Tech Park, Vitosha Venture Partners, and Sofia University’s Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, the event will be held with the support of the Municipality of Bansko and Mayor Stoycho Banenski.

Mrs. Svetoslava Georgieva, Chair of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund, will participate in the sessions. The EIC Fund is the venture capital arm of Europe’s leading innovation program, supporting breakthrough technologies and innovations with a €10 billion budget.

The event, scheduled from March 6 to 9, 2025, at the Nestwork offices, aims to foster innovative entrepreneurship within the local community, present funding opportunities for businesses and startups, create a regional network of innovative entrepreneurs, promote winter sports and tourism, and exchange best practices.

As part of the initiative, which highlights Bansko and the region as an investment destination, up-to-date information will be provided on business financing opportunities under the 2021-2027 program framework, the Fund of Funds, the Bulgarian Development Bank, financial intermediaries, and more.

The program also includes a competition for the best business idea for Bansko and the region, targeting high-tech companies, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads.