Firmly committed to strengthening social cohesion and fostering youth entrepreneurship, KMOP – Centre for Social Action and Innovation – bridges theory and practice through targeted education programmes, applied research, and collaborative networking. We empower young people by developing their personal and professional skills and promoting social entrepreneurship as a pathway to sustainable development. Our recent actions reflect KMOP’s ongoing commitment to cultivating a culture of cooperation, innovation, and social responsibility – providing meaningful opportunities for all.
Empowering Youth through Social Entrepreneurship
From 13 to 16 May, KMOP trained 18 young professionals from Cyprus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Kosovo in Athens, focusing on strengthening their skills in social entrepreneurship.
Led by KMOP experts and representatives from European organisations, participants explored innovative social business models and discussed how entrepreneurial action can generate social impact. The training combined theory and practice through experiential workshops, case studies, and expert-led sessions. Topics included: an introduction to social entrepreneurship; the European framework for entrepreneurial competencies; designing social business models; strategic planning for social innovation; and developing core skills for social entrepreneurship.
Special emphasis was placed on field visits to two inspiring social economy initiatives – Shedia Home and the Kypseli Municipal Market – both of which illustrate social inclusion and local enterprise in action. This initiative forms part of broader cross-border efforts to promote youth empowerment and social innovation.
- 13 May – Study Visit to Shedia: A magazine and a platform for Social Change
The first day featured a visit to the street magazine Shedia and its affiliated social restaurant, Shedia Home. Participants observed how this enterprise provides employment, fosters creativity, and supports the inclusion of people experiencing social exclusion. Guided by founder Mr Christos Alefantis, the group explored the potential of such initiatives to inspire inclusive and participatory policymaking. As Mr Alefantis explained, “Shedia Home was created to support our fellow citizens struggling with poverty and exclusion — to help them support themselves.”
- 14 May – Visit to the Kypseli Municipal Market: A vibrant hub of social enterprise
The second visit took place at the Kypseli Municipal Market — a lively space housing social enterprises focused on sustainable consumption, innovation, and cultural expression. Participants toured exhibitions and local shops, gaining insight into how solidarity-driven initiatives embed social values in daily economic activity. Discussions with social entrepreneurs focused on enhancing sustainability and strengthening public engagement with the social economy.
Informing policy development with key insights to advance social economy across European regions
In 2024, KMOP conducted a study in collaboration with regional and municipal authorities from nine European countries to assess the needs and challenges facing the social economy sector. The initiative aimed to inform evidence-based policymaking and strengthen the capacity of social economy enterprises at the regional level.
The study identified several key challenges, including limited access to funding, complex and restrictive regulatory frameworks, and low public visibility. In Greece, all respondents reported inadequate support for social enterprises, with 54% describing the legal framework as outdated and obstructive. Furthermore, 40% highlighted a significant lack of public awareness and education on the topic.
The findings underline the pressing need for targeted training initiatives and stronger community networks. Comparative analysis revealed that countries such as Portugal and Germany have implemented more effective support policies, recognising the social economy as a critical component of regional development. By contrast, Romania and Bulgaria face challenges similar to Greece’s, including limited funding, regulatory complexity, and low institutional recognition. Meanwhile, Latvia and Belgium have made notable progress in increasing public engagement and awareness of social economy initiatives.
Key takeaway: Advancing the social economy in Greece requires coordinated action across policy reform, educational efforts, and community engagement to achieve long-term, sustainable impact.
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