The Business and Cultural Development Centre (KEPA), within the framework of the European project GREENSMES, successfully implemented a 3-day Capacity Building Programme for Business Support Organizations (BSOs) on 18, 20 and 22 May 2026, aiming to strengthen the role of BSOs in supporting the green transition of SMEs.
The first session was held online, while the following two sessions took place at the premises of the Hellenic Design Centre in Thessaloniki, with the participation of representatives from organizations active in the fields of business support, innovation, sustainable development, consultancy, research and regional development.
The programme was designed to strengthen the organizational readiness of BSOs for supporting the green transition, enhance the development of high value-added services for SMEs, encourage the exchange of experiences and good practices, and foster stronger collaboration among stakeholders of the innovation ecosystem.
The workshop opened with a presentation of the GREENSMES project by KEPA representatives, followed by the presentation of key findings from the joint report regarding BSOs developed within the framework of the project regarding the current state of the green economy and innovation in the Adriatic-Ionian region.
Throughout the sessions, participants had the opportunity to discuss issues related to organizational strategy and culture for the green transition, the design and delivery of green innovation services, as well as sustainability, impact and the long-term strengthening of BSOs.
Participants also engaged in practical activities and self-assessment exercises, which contributed to a better understanding of how organizations can strengthen their resilience and reinforce their role in supporting SMEs towards greener and more sustainable business models.
In the next phase of the activity, for which a separate announcement will follow, Business Support Organizations will be invited to submit applications in order to participate in individualized support sessions (1:1 support), aiming at the development of Action Plans for strengthening their services towards SMEs in the field of green innovation.
Through the GREENSMES project and its activities, KEPA continues to actively support the development of a strong ecosystem for green innovation and sustainable entrepreneurship in the Region of Central Macedonia and the wider Adriatic-Ionian area.
