How to efficiently tackle societal, economy and other challenges in Savinjska region?
Centre Noordung is a partner in the international ResilienCE project. In Slovenia, the project is implemented in the Savinjska Region and focuses on exploring the potential of the social economy to address various social and economic challenges.
An analysis of the regional landscape, together with meetings involving social enterprises, development agencies, municipalities, business networks and start-up organisations, revealed that the sector is highly fragmented and lacks sufficient connectivity among stakeholders. In response, Centre Noordung organised two in-person events during the first half of 2026. One of these was the first ResilienCE Lab, which brought together representatives from different sectors and members of the wider public.
Participants jointly identified the most pressing challenges facing the Savinjska Region. The issues highlighted as particularly significant included a shortage of skilled labour, public transport, population ageing, the outmigration of young people to larger cities, and limited employment opportunities in rural areas and smaller communities.
Half of the participants considered the social economy to have strong potential for addressing these challenges. They also identified six social economy organisations or enterprises that are already successfully tackling some of the region’s key issues. The ResilienCE Lab also served as a networking platform, enabling participants to establish new partnerships and explore opportunities for developing social impact services and social innovations.
During the first half of the year, several experts were identified within the region who will, from October 2026 onwards, provide mentoring support to social economy organisations selected through an open call. The mentoring programme will focus on the twin transition (green and digital) and organisational development.
