META Circularity Joins Incubatore Creativo Istria to Support Entrepreneurs

The Incubatore Creativo Istria in Santa Lucia – Portorož is hosting an entrepreneurial training course designed to foster innovation, sustainability, and local economic development. Organized by the Unione Italiana in collaboration with META Circularity and co-financed by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the program, which began in January 2025, equips aspiring and established entrepreneurs with the tools to develop and scale their business ideas.

Objectives & Impact

This initiative aims to strengthen the economic and entrepreneurial foundations of the Italian National Community (CNI) in Slovenia and Croatia. The project focuses on fostering innovation, sustainability, and local economic development, with the following key objectives:

• Recruit a full-time administrator to manage the incubator’s activities.

• Launch a competition to identify and reward the best business ideas.

• Provide training for entrepreneurial teams in areas like circular economy, sustainable tourism, and local product promotion.

• Support the creation of at least two new start-ups, allowing them to operate without immediate VAT registration.

• Promote the Creative Incubator Istria to increase its visibility and attract participants and partners.

The desired impact includes:

• Creating new businesses and employment opportunities.

• Strengthening ties with Italian companies and fostering cross-border collaboration.

• Increasing the visibility and recognition of the CNI.

• Expanding partnerships with local stakeholders and cross-border companies.

• Providing specialized training in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Who is it for?

The course, running until May/June 2025, is designed for both aspiring entrepreneurs looking to launch new ventures and established business owners seeking to innovate and grow their companies. It is exclusively available to members of the Italian National Community (CNI) in Slovenia and Croatia, particularly in the Capodistrian, Buje, and Umag areas.

Case Studies & Insights

Participants will explore real-world examples and best practices, including:

• Dobrote Dolenjske – A model for regional food certification and branding.

• LegaCoop FVG – Cooperative business models that drive sustainable growth.

• YouSea Institute – Innovation and sustainability in the marine sector.

• Festa dei Cachi – Promoting local products through cultural initiatives.

The course also includes individual consultations and hands-on training sessions, culminating in a final pitch event in May 2025. Here, participants will present their business projects to potential investors, stakeholders, and the broader community.

META Circularity is proud to contribute to this initiative, helping to build a thriving and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.