You are currently viewing VOICES THAT INSPIRE – What led you to become an entrepreneur?

VOICES THAT INSPIRE – What led you to become an entrepreneur?

A European online event dedicated to showcasing testimonials of entrepreneurs within the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE).

This special gathering takes place in the context of a significant global milestone: The United Nations has declared 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives (IYC2025), under the theme “Cooperatives Build a Better World”. This theme highlights the vital role that cooperatives and social enterprises play in creating inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities.

Join us to hear inspiring stories from entrepreneurs across Europe who are building a better world through innovation, cooperation, and social impact.

📅 Date: June 18, 2025
🕙 Time: 10:00–12:00 CET
🌐 Format: Online via MS Teams
🗣️ Language: English
🔗Register here »

Are you:

  • An aspiring entrepreneur?
  • A business owner looking to connect with peers across Europe?
  • A key stakeholder in the Social and Solidarity Economy ecosystem?

The path to entrepreneurship is often filled with challenges—but also with great rewards. Many aspiring entrepreneurs face doubts and unanswered questions:

  • How do you come up with an innovative idea?
  • What steps are needed to formalize a business?
  • How do you overcome financial, legal, or emotional barriers?

This European event is your chance to connect with experienced entrepreneurs, hear their stories, and gain practical insights. Through inspiring talks and panel discussions, you’ll explore real-world cases and have the opportunity to share your own questions and experiences.

In collaboration with the European Network of Innovation for Inclusion, this event invites you to:

  • Gain valuable insights
  • Network with like-minded individuals
  • Discover new opportunities in entrepreneurship and the social economy

AGENDA
10:00 – 10:10

WELCOME
10:10 – 11:10

WHAT SPARKED YOUR JOURNEY?

A dynamic panel where each entrepreneur shares:

  • What inspired them to start
  • Key challenges they faced
  • How their ventures are creating social impact in rural areas

SPEAKERS

  • Rakip Belishaku, Founder of Rinora Handmade  (Albania) – Natural sponges, handmade soaps.
  • Sergio Aranda, Co-founder of Emprendiciencia (Spain) – Science-based social entrepreneurship.
  • Gabriella Baráth, Project manager at Hatpöttyös Restaurant – Six dot restaurant (Hungary) – Gastronomy and social inclusion 
  • Dino Ricci, Founder of Assurd – Sorsi e Morsi (Italy) – Social gastronomy and culture.
  • María Soto, Director at  Cooprado Foundation (Spain) – Agriculture and livestock.
  • Tommaso Padula, Coordinator at Cooperativa Mest – Birrificio Matarè (Italy) – Craft beer and local development.
  • Mary Antoniou, Founder at MarySou (Cyprus) – Sustainable crafting
  • Sentiljana Marku, Founder of Danja’s Raspberries (Albania) – Organic agriculture.
  • Balázs Tóth, Head of Work Organisation at Mezőföld Local Community Association (Hungary) – Rural development and community empowerment.
  • Michalis Pantelides, Founder at Michalis Pantelides (Cyprus) – Sustainable Fashion.
11:10 – 11:30 LIVE Q&A
11:30 – 12:00 TAKEAWAYS & NEXT STEPS

 

 

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