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The Memorandum between the UNWE and the Fund of Funds: a bridge between academic knowledge and real opportunities for financing start-up businesses of young entrepreneurs

UNWE — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:40:31 GMT

At the Faculty of Business of the UNWE, 3rd year students, majoring in Entrepreneurship, Катедра "Предприемачество", УНСС / Chair of Entrepreneurship, UNWE, participated in an extremely valuable and practically oriented lecture by Mr. Stefan Doykin, Deputy Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Fund of Funds, on the topic "Financing of Digital Startups". The meeting, which was held at the invitation of the Deputy Dean for Research and Development of the Faculty of Business, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nikolay Vankov, gave the students - future entrepreneurs - a direct look at the real mechanisms for supporting entrepreneurship in Bulgaria.

The lecture presented the role of the Fund of Funds as a structure that manages funds under programs co-financed by European funds and works to improve access to financing, build national capacity and mobilize additional private resources. Emphasis was also placed on the main types of financial instruments - loans, equity and quasi-equity investments and guarantees.

for financing start-ups created by students and doctoral students. The conditions of the instruments under the Education Programme 2021-2027 were presented, aimed at companies in which students and/or doctoral students own at least 50% of the capital and participate directly in their management. It was explained that the funds can be used for investments in tangible and intangible assets, working capital, as well as for training and development of entrepreneurial skills. Among the most useful practical highlights were microloans of up to EUR 50 000, with the possibility of a grace period of up to 24 months, without an annual service fee and without a requirement for own financial participation, as well as the fund for start-ups of students and doctoral students with investments of EUR 25 000 to 150 000.

The lecture also presented broader opportunities for supporting innovative, digital and technology-oriented businesses, as well as initiatives to encourage youth entrepreneurship, including the "Best Youth Startup in Bulgaria" competition. The students also learned about successful examples of projects and startups supported by the Fund of Funds, which gave the meeting an even stronger practical and motivational character.

After the lecture, a very constructive, interesting and engaging discussion took place on issues related to financing from the Fund of Funds, the opportunities for young entrepreneurs and the path from a good idea to a real business project. Assoc. Prof. Vankov and the students thanked Mr. Stefan Doykin for the inspiring meeting, the expert advice and the valuable practical guidance.

Prof. Dr. Nikolay Dentchev Is Elected As Member of the Bulgarian Council for Economic Analysis at Bulgarian Council of Ministers

UNWE — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 17:02:53 GMT

Prof. Dr. Nikolay Dentchev, Scientific Secretary and lecturer at the Department of Entrepreneurship of the UNWE, was elected as member of the Bulgarian Council for Economic Analysis at Bulgarian Council of Ministers.

Nikolay Dentchev is a professor of social entrepreneurship. Until 2024, he developed his academic career in Belgium, teaching at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, working at Ghent University and at the Brussels campus of the Catholic University of Leuven. He has been a visiting lecturer at universities in Austria, Italy, the Netherlands and France. Under his supervision, 11 scholars have successfully defended their Doctoral dissertations. He is the author of over 60 international scholarly publications in the fields of social entrepreneurship, corporate social responsibility, ESG and entrepreneurial ecosystems.

On March 31, 2026, the Bulgarian Council for Economic Analysis submitted its 2025 Annual Report to the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria, which includes an analysis of the current state of the Bulgarian economy, as well as analytical studies and recommendations prepared by the Council members on specialized topics, identifying medium- and long-term risks and opportunities facing the economy. The full report is available on the website of the Bulgarian Council of Ministers.

The Bulgarian Council for Economic Analysis at Council of Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria is responsible for analyzing key economic, macroeconomic and social issues and proposing appropriate policies and solutions. The Council consists of internationally recognized economists of undisputed academic authority who assess the challenges facing the Bulgarian economy and make policy recommendations to address them. It is an advisory body and includes respected economists from prestigious universities and research institutes, both from abroad and from Bulgaria.

The Council prepares independent analyses and opinions on specific issues regarding the state of the Bulgarian economy, the challenges and risks it faces, as well as possible policies and recommendations for addressing them. The main purpose of these opinions is to assist government authorities in making strategic decisions regarding the economic development, as well as to keep the Bulgarian public informed about the key economic issues. In addition to these statements, the Council organizes an Annual Economic Conference dedicated to the challenges and risks facing the Bulgarian, European and global economies.

ENGAGE.EU Signature Course "Managing the Family Business - Strategy, Governance and Change"

UNWE — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 17:31:07 GMT

The online international master's course "Family Business Management - Strategy, Management and Change" has started at the University of National and World Economy. The training is conducted within the framework of the innovative COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) format and is the result of the partnership between the Department of Entrepreneurship of the UNWE, the Department of Entrepreneurship and SME Studies at the Faculty of Business Administration of the Mannheim University (Germany) - the lead partner in the project, and the Department of Business and Management Sciences of the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) in Bergen. The course is also implemented within the framework of the European university network ENGAGE.EU, which promotes joint learning and academic exchange between universities from different countries.

The opening of the series of training modules took place with the participation of students and lecturers from the three partner universities. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kostadin Kolarov, Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship, who coordinates the participation of the Bulgarian side, was present in the hall of the UNWE. He welcomed the students who joined the international training. The first lecture module was led by lecturers from the University of Mannheim, who presented the main objectives of the course and introduced the participants to the topic of family business management. The lecture examined key concepts related to the specifics of family businesses, the role of family relationships in business management and the features of strategic decisions in this type of organizations. Particular attention was paid to the importance of family businesses for the economic development of Europe, as well as the challenges related to their sustainability, continuity and adaptation to the dynamic business environment.

The course aims to provide a thorough understanding of the specifics of family business management, which represents a significant part of the economic structure of many European countries. During the training, students are introduced to both theoretical models for analyzing family businesses and practical examples from real business practice. Issues related to management structures, decision-making processes, the role of values ??and traditions in family businesses, as well as strategies for sustainable development and internationalization are examined.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kostadin Kolarov and Yordan Nenov, student of the "Entrepreneurship" specialty, technical assistant of the course and coordinator of the group of students from the UNWE

The course programme is structured in several consecutive modules that combine academic lectures, discussions and presentation of real business cases. In the following lecture days, lecturers from the Norwegian School of Economics will participate in the training, as well as guest lecturers from practice, who will present the experience of established family businesses. Students work in international teams on the analysis of specific business cases related to the strategic development, innovation and management of family businesses. The course is conducted in English, carries 6 ECTS credits and includes lectures, group work and a final presentation of project developments. Through the international format of training, students are given the opportunity to exchange ideas and experience with colleagues from different academic and cultural backgrounds and to acquire practical knowledge about managing family businesses in an international context.

The implementation of this course is an important step in the development of international cooperation at the UNWE and creates new opportunities for students to participate in joint European educational initiatives and academic projects.

Vladimir Marinov, singer and stage artist, shared his views on art entrepreneurship with students from the UNWE

UNWE — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 17:29:46 GMT

On March 12, 2026, at the invitation of the Department of Entrepreneurship, singer and stage artist Vladimir Marinov shared his views on the state of art entrepreneurship in Bulgaria and the prospects for its development to students studying "Principles of Entrepreneurship" and "Entrepreneurship in the Public Sector".

Among the discussion questions were the characteristics of different genres in music as prerequisites for entrepreneurial opportunities, the reflections of public attitudes and values ??on art entrepreneurship, and the attractiveness of different genres among young people.

"Life repeats art!" was the main thesis of the fascinating discussion with young people.

Graduates of the Department of Entrepreneurship Received Their Diplomas

UNWE — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 13:42:56 GMT

At an official ceremony in the "Solemn" Hall, the diplomas of the graduates of the Department of Entrepreneurship, class of 2025, were awarded.

The event began with the sounds of the National and the European anthems and Gaudeamus igitur.

Greetings to the graduates were delivered by the Rector of the UNWE, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Republic of India in Bulgaria, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hristina Harizanova-Bartos, Deputy Dean for Quality and International Cooperation of the Faculty of Business, Ms. Violina Nakova, member of the Management Board of the Bulgarian Industrial Association, Ms. Victoria Karaabova-Stoyanova, Co-Chair of the Entrepreneurship and Startup Council at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nikolay Vankov, Deputy Dean for Research of the Business Faculty, as well as professors from the Department of Entrepreneurship.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kostadin Kolarov, Head of the Department of Entrepreneurship, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hristina Harizanova-Bartos, Ms. Violina Nakova, Ms. Victoria Karaabova-Stoyanova (from left to right)

The event was opened by the head of the Department of Entrepreneurship, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kostadin Kolarov. “Entrepreneurship is a philosophy, mission and way of life that requires courage, perseverance and the ability to see opportunities where others see problems. Today you are completing an important stage of your journey – years of training, challenges, ideas and personal growth, but this is also the beginning of your true entrepreneurial realization,” said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kostadin Kolarov and emphasized: “I believe that you will use the acquired knowledge and skills not only for personal success, but also for creating value for society, jobs and innovative solutions. Be brave, proactive and responsible, because you are the generation that has the power to change the economic and business environment in Bulgaria.”

"Today is a significant moment not only for you, esteemed graduates, but also for our academic community. It is a symbol of your efforts, perseverance and pursuit of knowledge, development and professional improvement. By graduating from the Department of Entrepreneurship, you receive not just a diploma, but a key to the future – the opportunity to create, be innovators and contribute to the sustainable development of our economy and society," the Rector of the UNWE, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, addressed the graduates and emphasized: "UNWE is proud of you – with your achievements, ideas and potential. We believe that you will be leaders with vision who not only follow changes, but create them. Carry with you the values of the University, uphold moral principles and transform knowledge into real results that matter to Bulgaria and the world."

"In India, a country with more than 5,000 years of civilization, we believe that knowledge has meaning only when it is transmitted, developed and served by society. Education is a bridge between generations and a key to a sustainable future. India is built on cultural and linguistic diversity, but our strength comes from respect for learning, for the teacher and for the pursuit of knowledge," said H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu and added: "I find the same spirit here - in Bulgaria and at the UNWE, where I meet young people with ambition, intellect and a desire for development, as well as professors who are dedicated to building the future leaders of society. It is an honor for me to be among you at this solemn moment and to congratulate you on your success. I wish you to be brave, responsible and inspired entrepreneurs who do not just follow the world, but change it with ideas, knowledge and vision."

"Graduating from the Department of Entrepreneurship at the UNWE gives you a solid foundation and preparation to realize yourself in a dynamic and competitive environment, in which the ability to think strategically and make decisions is of key importance. We believe that the experience and knowledge gained here will be your reliable guide on the path to your future successes," emphasized Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hristina Harizanova-Bartos and emphasized: "I want you to know that the doors of the Department and the Faculty of Business remain open to you forever. UNWE is not just a place where you received an education - it is a community to which you can always return for support, advice and new opportunities for development."

"On behalf of the Bulgarian Industrial Chamber, I congratulate you on your successful graduation and on the significant achievement you are marking today. This education was not easy, but it was through these efforts that you have built the foundation on which you will step in your professional realization. Business awaits you - with your energy, ideas and entrepreneurial spirit," said Ms. Violina Nakova and pointed out: "As a graduate of the UNWE, I can confidently say that this university provides a solid foundation that helps in the most real challenges of practice. I wish you to discover the meaning of everything you have learned, to turn it into actions and results and to build a career that not only brings success, but also satisfaction. Believe in yourself, be brave and never stop developing."

"I congratulate you on this important and well-deserved success - a moment you have dreamed of and worked towards with perseverance and effort. The most valuable knowledge is that which is transformed into actions and brings satisfaction from a job well done. Bulgaria needs young people like you - confident, motivated and ambitious, who can prove that our country is a place of opportunities and development. Be proud of yourself, keep your smiles and never stop believing in your own strength," said Ms. Victoria Karaabova-Stoyanova.

"You have shown knowledge, ambition and class, with which you will worthily represent both yourself and our university and the Department of Entrepreneurship. I am calm for your future, because I am convinced that tomorrow's business leaders stand before me - the people who will have the courage and inspiration to change the environment, create value and move the economy forward," Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nikolay Vankov congratulated the graduates and commented: "I am particularly proud of the Master's program "Digital Startup Business" - my brainchild, which today is already bearing its first successful fruits. This is a sure sign that the young entrepreneurs we are preparing are ready to turn their ideas into reality. I wish you good luck, courage and confidence to follow your dreams, create your business and move forward with faith in your own abilities."

The professors from the Department of Entrepreneurship also extended greetings and wishes to the graduates.

The ceremony continued with the presentation of diplomas by the official guests of the ceremony and the professors from the department.

The Rector, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, presented the diploma and plaque to the excellent student in the Master's degree, Ms. Bilyana Nikolova, majoring in "Digital Startup Business". H.E. Mr. Arun Kumar Sahu presented the diploma and plaque to the excellent student in the Master's degree, majoring in "Entrepreneurship", specialization "Business Entrepreneurship" - Mr. Tsvetelin Tsolov.

Entrepreneurial opportunities in Shanghai

UNWE — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:24:07 GMT

Fourth-year students majoring in Entrepreneurship had the opportunity to discuss the prospects for entrepreneurial careers in one of the most dynamically developing economic zones in the world – Shanghai, with the representative of the Shanghai University of Sport, sinologist and sports manager Mr. Ivaylo Zahariev.

During the discussion, the students received valuable information about the conditions under which they could establish contacts with potential business partners in Shanghai, as well as about the opportunities for continuing their education in China.

12th International Conference ‘Empowerment Entrepreneurship: How Entrepreneurs & Stakeholders Can Build a Sustainable Future’

UNWE — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 14:05:12 GMT

The 12th International Conference ‘Empowerment Entrepreneurship: How Entrepreneurs & Stakeholders Can Build a Sustainable Future’ was held in September, 2 – 5, 2024, in Albena, organized by the Institute of Entrepreneurship and the Chair of Entrepreneurship of the UNWE, the Bulgarian Association for Management Development and Entrepreneurship (BAMDE), in partnership with the University of Economics – Varna, the Institute for Economic Research of the BAS and the European Council for Small Business and Entrepreneurship (ECSB), and with the support of the National Science Fund of the Ministry of Education and Science.

Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov, PhD, opens the conference with a brief retrospective of the previous editions

Assoc. Prof. Radan Miryanov, PhD, Vice-Rector of the University of Economics – Varna, welcomes the participants in the conference and presents the role of the university in building a sustainable future

Keynote speakers at the conference were:

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans, OBE, Founder, UK Fast Growth 50 Index and the National Startup Awards;
Professor Raymond Saner, PhD, International Relations & International Management University of Basle, Switzerland;
Professor Lichia Saner-Yiu, Co-Founder and President of the Centre for Socio-Eco-Nomic Development (CSEND), Genève, Switzerland, Taiwan, A UN ECOSOC accredited think tank with Special Consultative Status;
Professor Diego Matricano, PhD, Department of Management, Università degli Studi della Campania "L. Vanvitelli", Chair of SIG Entrepreneurship @ EURAM Conference
Mr. Aurel Laurentiu Plosceanu, EESC Vice-President for Communications
Assoc. Professor Milena Angelova, PhD, SME Envoy of Bulgaria, SME Envoys Network, DG GROW, on behalf of the Ministry of Economy and Industry.

Prof. Dylan Jones-Evans, OBE, at the end of his keynote speech ‘Empowered Entrepreneurship – Engaging the Innovation Ecosystem to Build a Sustainable Future’ shares his tribute to Prof. Kiril Todorov, DSc, founder and longtime chairman of the International Conference on Entrepreneurship

Prof. Raymond Saner, PhD, presents his keynote ‘Business Diplomacy for SDG Implementation through Intra- and External Entrepreneurship’

Prof. Lichia Saner-Yiu presents her keynote ‘Sustainability & Global Supply Chain’

Prof. Dr. Diego Matricano presents his keynote ‘Entrepreneurship and Social Development Goals: A relationship worth investigating’

Mr. Aurel Laurentiu Plosceanu delivers his keynote speech on ‘The Role of EESC in Support of Sustainable Development’

Assoc. Prof. Milena Angelova, PhD, presents her keynote ‘Modern Business Responsibility: Enabling SMEs Transition to Sustainability’

Ms. Anelia Zografova, founder and CEO of a large enterprise operating with environmental goals, shares her entrepreneurial experience and her views on the challenges to sustainable development

Participants in the plenary session

The rest of the participants presented papers covering various aspects of entrepreneurship and sustainable development, which apart from the immediate feedback from the sessions, will be further peer-reviewed with a view to targeting them for publication in journals and books of reputed international publishers.

Within the framework of the conference, with the kind hosting of the University of Economics – Varna, a workshop was held on the topic ‘How to get published in renowned international journals; the do's and don'ts’, led by Prof. Diego Matricano, PhD, author of more than one hundred publications (papers, monographs, and chapters) focused on entrepreneurial processes, profiles and dynamics, the winner of the Best Book Award 2024 (“Interdisciplinarity in Entrepreneurship” published by Palgrave Macmillan/Springer) assigned by the European Academy of Management (Bath, June 2024), Associate Editor for several top-ranked journals and is the Chair of SIG Entrepreneurship at EURAM Conference and Co-coordinator of the Thematic Group “Entrepreneurship” at SIMA – Società Italiana di Management.

Participants in the conference before leaving for the University of Economics – Varna

With the Vice-Rector for Research and Development of the University of Economics - Varna – Assoc. Prof. Vladimir Dosev, PhD

Opening of the workshop led by Prof. Diego Matricano

In this year's edition of the conference, along with the traditional participants, new participants from Bulgaria and abroad played an active role, who confirmed the usefulness of this forum and expressed their interest in participating in the next editions. Among the new participants were prominent scientists such as Prof. Igor Kononenko, DSc, as well as many doctoral students and young scientists.

Despite the rich scientific program of the conference, a social program with memorable events was traditionally organized, in the organization of which Dr. Yordanka Stoeva, Chairwoman of the Municipal Council of the town of Shabla, and the opera singer Mr. Vladimir Marinov played a key role. These events contributed to the creation of a friendly atmosphere, encouraging informal communications and the establishment of new academic partnerships.

Moments from the cultural program in Shabla and Tyulenovo

Before the participants parted

The 12th International Conference on Entrepreneuship proved its role in the exchange of new knowledge, research practices and the creation and development of international scientific networks.

Summer School in Entrepreneurship 2024

UNWE — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 11:38:11 GMT

The University of National and World Economy hosted the Summer School in Entrepreneurship organized by the Institute of Entrepreneurship, the Department of Entrepreneurship of the UNWE and L J University, Ahmedabad, India from 11 June to 4 July 2024. Special efforts for organization of the Summer School were spent by Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov and Dr. Silviya Georgieva (by the side of UNWE) and Ms. Urja Joshi (by the side of L J University).

Participants in the Summer School were a group of eight students studying various majors at L J University, as well as their mentors - Dr. Viralkumar Shah, CEO of Antrapreneur the Business Incubator and Executive Director of Lok Jagruti Kendra Trust and Dr. Jay Shukla, Asst. Prof. at L J Institute of Event Management.

The training was based on the Principles of Entrepreneurship curriculum, which has been studied for decades by students in the bachelor's programs of UNWE.

The summer school was solemnly opened on June 11, 2024 by the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, the Ambassador of the Republic of India H.E. Mr. Sanjay Rana, Ms. Radostina Chaprazova, Regional Director of the Arete Foundation, Iliyan Chabukliyski, President of the Student Council at UNWE, Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov, Director of the Institute of Entrepreneurship and head of the Chair of Entrepreneurship and Dr. Jai Shukla. The ceremony was also attended by the vice-rectors Assoc. Prof. Maria Vodenicharova, PhD (VR for Research) and Assoc. Prof. Yanko Hristozov, PhD (VR for International Activity). Guests at the opening ceremony were young people supported by the Arete Foundation.

The course in Principles of Entrepreneurship covered a wide range of topics in the following areas:

The Nature of Entrepreneurship
The Entrepreneurial Process and Starting Up a New Business
The Nature of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)
Management, Growth, and Internationalization of SMEs

In addition to the lectures in Principles of Entrepreneurship delivered by Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov, Dr. Silviya Georgieva, and Dr. Maria Vasilska, the summer school was saturated with visits to various economic, cultural and historical sites in the country – the innovative enterprises "Alpi Commerce" and "Bultech - 2000", Sofia Tech Park, the choir of the Bistritsa’s grandmothers, the National History Museum , the Asenova fortress, Old Plovdiv and others.

In some of the lectures, successful young entrepreneurs were invited – Mr. Vasil Chakardakov and Mr. Hristiyan Stoylkov – the last graduated Entrepreneurship specialty.

In the last week of the summer school, the students and their mentors from LJ University were invited by H.E. Sanjay Rana at a meeting at the Embassy of the Republic of India in Bulgaria, where issues related to the knowledge gained from the summer school, the entrepreneurial ideas of the participants in the training and opportunities for implementing these ideas, what was learned about Bulgaria and the European Union were discussed.

During the training, a tour was organized for the participants of the summer school in Romania, and after the training – another tour in Turkey.

On the basis of conducted control and examination tests and the implementation of educational assignments, the knowledge of the participants in the summer school was assessed and certificates were prepared with the awarded grades.

On July 4, 2024, the solemn ceremony closing the summer school was organized, the official participants of which were the vice-rector for educational activities of UNWE – Prof. Dr. Matilda Alexandrova-Boshnakova and the commercial counselor and second secretary at the Embassy of the Republic of India – Ms. Soni Dahiya, who extended their greetings and wishes to the successful graduates of the summer school and handed over some of the certificates. Greetings were also given by Dr. Shah and Dr. Shukla, Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov and Dr. Silviya Georgieva, who also presented certificates for successful completion of the summer school.

The star of the opera stage, Orlin Anastassov, presented his life lessons to freshmen majoring in Entrepreneurship

UNWE — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 20:03:00 GMT

Orlin Anastassov, the youngest bass to sing on the stage of La Scala, was the first guest of the series of meetings-discussions "Life Lessons from Successful People", organized for the students of the Entrepreneurship specialty.

His visit was initiated by the singer Vladimir Marinov, who for several years together with his wife, also a famous star of the opera scene - Dr. Mariana Tsvetkova, has been supporting the education of students in the Art and Creative Entrepreneurship discipline.

Since the visit was part of the academic ethics course, the focus of the conversation with Mr. Anastassov was the role of ethics in the professional career. Along with this, topics related to the place of opera art in modern culture, the qualities that should be developed by a young person striving for achievements, and the cultural environment in which young people are formed as individuals were discussed.

Vladimir Marinov, in his role as moderator of the meeting, used his inimitable approach to break the atmosphere and give impetus to the discussion with the students. The first questions asked encouraged the students, who were embarrassed by the size of the guest, and the originally planned time to talk with Mr. Anastassov turned out to be insufficient. Even after the lecture hour, he was stopped by excited students who wanted to continue the conversation.

Participants from 15 countries on four continents contributed to the success of the 11th International Conference "Entrepreneurship in a Challenged World: The Role of Universities in the Development of Entrepreneurial Ecosystems"

UNWE — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 17:33:35 GMT

The 11th international conference on entrepreneurship, organized by the Bulgarian Association for Management Development and Entrepreneurship (BAMDE), with the efforts of its members, first among them UNWE, represented by the Institute of Entrepreneurship and the Chair of Entrepreneurship, and in partnership with the European Council for Small Business and Entrepreneurship was held at the Flamingo Grand Hotel and Spa in the Albena resort from 11 to 14 September 2023.

The eleventh edition of the conference was held after a three-year hiatus, a period in which the forum lost not only its founder – Prof. Kiril Todorov, a pioneer in the research of small business and entrepreneurship in Bulgaria, recipient of numerous international recognitions, but also notables in entrepreneurship science and education, who participated as keynote speakers and contributed to the development of the conference – Prof. David Smallbone, Prof. Robert Hisrich and Prof. David Storey. Their loss to the scientific community, of course, brought a certain amount of sadness to the mood of the regular participants in the forum, but it was also a motivating impulse to preserve what had been achieved and for its further development.

Keynote speakers in this year's edition were Prof. Nikolay Dentchev, founder and head of the Chair of Social Entrepreneurship at the Free University of Brussels, and Prof. Andrew Burke, Dean of the Trinity Business School at the University of Dublin.

Researchers, teachers, doctoral students and entrepreneurs from a total of fifteen countries took part in the conference.

Greetings to the participants of the conference were made by Prof. Mitko Dimitrov, Chairman of the Board of BAMDE and representative of the Institute for Economic Research of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Prof. Ken O'Neill, member of the international Advisory Committee of the conference and Doctor Honoris Causa of the UNWE, Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE, Prof. Mariyana Bozhinova, Rector of the D. A. Tsenov Academy of Economics – Svishtov, and Professor Radan Miryanov, Deputy Rector of the University of Economics – Varna.

Within the framework of the conference, 27 papers were presented and a round table was organized on the topic "The role of universities in the creation and development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem", led by Dr. Paolo Zaramella and Dr. Bruce Whitefield.

The papers were presented in thematic sections, the main ones focusing on issues of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, female and youth entrepreneurship, digital technologies and entrepreneurial education.

Part of the program was a visit to the University of Economics – Varna (UEV), where Prof. Miryanov introduced the conference participants to the Varna Deep Tech Innovation Port project, and Dr. Petar Petrov – to the activities of the UEV Accelerator.

The conference participants were also enthused by the social program, which included both the traditional welcome cocktail in the evening preceding the conference, as well as Folklore and Gala dinners. Particularly strong were the impressions of the gala dinner with a culinary show organized at the Culinary Arts Institute at Varna University of Management under the leadership of Chef Hugues Boutin, and a musical show organized by the opera bass-baritone Vladimir Marinov.

At the end of the third day of the conference, a summary of the papers presented was made by the Sessions’ Chairpersons – Prof. Kostadin Kolarov (who also presented the summaries made by Prof. Dmytro Zherlitsyn), Prof. Olga Tabachnikova, Prof. Tadeusz Poplawski and Prof. Desislava Yordanova, with whom the nominations for the Kiril Todorov Best Paper Award were also consulted. The comparable high scores of the best papers led to the decision to award the authors of four best papers.

The conference ended with the high evaluation shared by the participants for the organization of its conduct and expressed gratitude for this to Prof. Kostadin Kolarov and Dr. Maria Vasilska, as well as with a discussion of ideas and a plan for the next edition of the forum.

Conference opening.
Greeting from Prof. Mitko Dimitrov to the participants

Greetings from Prof. Ken O'Neill

Greetings from Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE,

Prof. Mariyana Bozhinova, Rector of D.A. Tsenov Academy of Economics – Svishtov,

and Prof. Radan Miryanov, Vice-Rector of the University of Economics – Varna

Prof. Nikolay Dentchev, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and UNWE, presents a keynote paper

Prof. Dr. M H Bala Subrahmanya, Department of Management Studies, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore

Prof. Andrew Burke, Trinity Business School, University of Dublin, presents a keynote paper

Discussion after presentation of paper. In the foreground – Prof. Pradeep Kumar Ray, Distinguished Professor and Founder of the Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE), University of Michigan-Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute, and Prof. Bala Subrahmanya

Prof. Dmytro Zherlitsyn and Prof. Irina Kuzmina-Merlino

Round table moderators – Dr. Bruce Whitefield and Dr. Paolo Zaramella

Prof. Andrew Burke and Prof. Desislava Yordanova

Conference participants visiting the University of Economics – Varna

Presentation of the Varna Deep Tech Innovation Port project and the UEV Accelerator

Handing out certificates for best papers and participation in the conference

Successful Defenses of Master Theses in Entrepreneurship

UNWE — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:26:49 GMT

"The essence of knowledge is, having it, to apply it." said the philosopher Confucius.

Today, during the defense of their theses, the new Masters in Business Entrepreneurship proved their skills in applying the knowledge acquired in the Master's program in solving significant problems faced by entrepreneurs. The specific problems to which theses proposed solutions are:

Improvement of communication skills as a key element for the development of the entrepreneur and his business, Atidje Pehlevan, MA;
Recovery and sustainable development of Bulgarian social enterprises, Kristina Dimova, MA;
Development of a marketing campaign on Instagram for a start-up business, Stefan Todorov, MA;
Analysis and planning of the launch of a new business by a young entrepreneur through the creation of a store in an online platform, Tsvetelina Yakova, MA.

The new Masters of Arts among the members of the State examination commission...

... and with scientific supervisors of theses

The state examination commission, which included, in addition to professors in the master's program, the entrepreneur Georgi Meshenliev (producer of children's and diet food), highly rated the Master theses.

Of particular importance was that the objectives of all theses were linked to the professional objectives of the masters in their careers as entrepreneurs and experts in the field of entrepreneurship.

Lecturers from the Middle East University, Amman, in Principles of Entrepreneurship classes

UNWE — Sat, 27 May 2023 14:10:34 GMT

The young scholars from the Middle East University in Amman, Jordan - Dr. Najwa Ashal, Dr. Abdalrazzaq Aloqool and Dr. Anas Ahmad Bani Atta enriched with their lectures the course on Principles of Entrepreneurship led by professors from the Chair of Entrepreneurship.

The topics they presented on 23 May 2023 were related to the opportunities of the higher education system in Jordan, communication skills and their importance for entrepreneurship, and Internet marketing tools that entrepreneurs can use.

After the lectures, a discussion was held regarding the opportunities for entrepreneurial initiatives between Bulgaria and Jordan, as well as for common research and education activities of the academic staffs.

Guest lecturer from the University of Daugavpils contributed to the training of students and doctoral students in Entrepreneurship

UNWE — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 11:51:55 GMT

Dr. Vera Komarova, senior researcher at the Institute of Humanities and Social Sciences of Daugavpils University, Latvia, was a guest lecturer at UNWE in the last week of April.

Dr. Komarova presented the topic of national cultural differences and the role of these differences in entrepreneurship to the first- and second-year students studying Principles of Entrepreneurship in English.

In support of Hofstede's well-known theory of intercultural differences, Dr. Komarova introduced the students to the results of comparative studies of the cultural characteristics of Bulgaria and its closest trading partners – Greece and Turkey, as well as her country Latvia and the largest former Soviet republics – Russia and Ukraine, and the notable for their entrepreneurial history USA.

At a specially organized meeting with doctoral students of the Chair of Entrepreneurship, Dr. Komarova systematically presented the answers to the main questions regarding the essence, design and structure of scientific study. The presentation was followed by discussions of issues related to the work on the specific dissertations of the doctoral students participating in the meeting.

We should note that Dr. Vera Komarova, in addition to being a researcher, is also the chairperson of a foundation initiated and led by women in Latvia with headquarters in Riga and Daugavpils – a partner in the project carried out together with the Institute of Entrepreneurship of the UNWE and five other foreign partners – ‘Digi Women - Digital Entrepreneurship Tools and Support for Women Entrepreneurs’ (2020 – 2022) - hppts://digiwomen.bamde.org.

Graduates of the Chair of Entrepreneurship share their entrepreneurial experience on air on the Student’s day

UNWE — Sat, 10 Dec 2022 13:40:42 GMT

The incomparable in terms of emotions celebration of the Bulgarian Student’s Day was the reason for the invitation to participate in the Hristo Botev Programme of the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) to two of the graduates of the Chair of Entrepreneurship – Ms. Tsvetelina Dincheva and Mr. Hristiyan Stoilkov, modern young entrepreneurs, and one of their teachers – Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov, PhD, director of the Institute of Entrepreneurship and head of the Chair of Entrepreneurship at UNWE.

After a brief presentation of the history of entrepreneurship education at UNWE by Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov and his answers to the questions asked by the host of the morning broadcast, Mrs. Kalina Staneva, regarding the choice of an entrepreneurial career and the factors of entrepreneurial success, the floor was given to the young entrepreneurs.

The live broadcast from the studio did not bother the graduates of the Chair in the least, and sincerely, but also with self-confidence, they shared the main moments and challenges of their development as entrepreneurs, the role of education in this process and what they learned from practice.

Part of what was shared on air can be read on the BNR website, where there is also a link to the full recording of the broadcast – https://bnr.bg/hristobotev/post/101748126/kostadin-kolarov.

First-year student from Entrepreneurship specialty with an award in the Huawei Seeds For The Future competition

UNWE — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 10:37:15 GMT

Ms. Kristina Velinova, 1st year student, majoring in Entrepreneurship at our university is among the winners of the global programme of the technological giant Huawei - Seeds For the Future. She was awarded at a special ceremony at the Chinese Cultural Center in Sofia. The solemn event was also attended by the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, who presented certificates to several other winners of the Huawei social project.

Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Kristina Velinova and the General Manager of Huawei Technologies Bulgaria Mr. Terry Lee

In his address, Prof. Dimitrov emphasized the extremely good partnership that the university has with Huawei. He personally thanked Mr. Terry Lee for the assistance they provide to UNWE in the digitalization process. The rector of UNWE also emphasized the great responsibility that society has for preserving the nature and resources of the planet and defined the social project of the company as a "springboard for talents".

The PR manager of Huawei Mrs. Desislava Atanasova and the Rector Prof. Dimitrov

“I became interested in the program because it is related to technology and improving leadership skills. "Before UNWE, I studied in a class with Programming and I have an interest in this field", said Kristina. About the programme, she said, it included four courses, online training, as well as participation in the Global Tech4Good competition, through which participants had the opportunity to improve their leadership skills, problem-solving experience and learn more about social entrepreneurship. "Besides all the new knowledge, I made many new friendships and contacts and improved my teamwork skills," said the UNWE student.

Huawei Seeds For the Future. This is one of the socially responsible programmes of the company, in which hundreds of students take part, and the best of them get the opportunity to acquire skills and knowledge in an international business environment, as well as exchange experience with talented participants from all over the world. Seeds For the Future in Bulgaria is implemented in partnership with the most prestigious universities in the country, representatives of employers and businesses, as well as participants who applied according to the announced public invitation. The scholarship programme was originally launched in 2008 and takes place in 130 countries, in partnership with over 500 leading universities. The courses are in the field of science, technology and economics. The programme also includes developing teamwork skills, improving intercultural dialogue, and getting to know the colorful, centuries-old palette of Chinese culture. The Seeds for the Future platform offers free access to 47 pre-registered courses, and topics range from sustainability and business leadership to the history of China's Silicon Valley to cyber defense and aerospace. The Seeds alumni social network caters to professional and valuable content exchange and exclusive alumni activities.

Young people from Vietnam are the first foreign students in the Entrepreneurship specialty

UNWE — Thu, 06 Oct 2022 15:19:32 GMT

The success of graduates of the Entrepreneurship specialty attracted the first foreign students.

These are the young Vietnamese Phu Lam, Nguyen Hung, Thi Bui and Son Pham.

Nguyen Hung and Phu Lam

In the first year, they will learn the Bulgarian language, after which they will study according to the curriculum of the bachelor's programme.

An Entrepreneurship student is the winner of the Youth Essay Competition 2021 of the SME Assembly

UNWE — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 13:53:56 GMT

The student of the Master's degree programme in Entrepreneurship Kristina Dimova is the winner of last year's edition of the youth essay competition, organized by the Assembly of SMEs under the auspices of the European Commission.

Kristina Dimova - winner of the YEC 2021.

The theme of the 2021 competition was "What do SMEs need to become sustainable and resilient in the context of COVID-19 and other global challenges?" and Kristina Dimova's essay is entitled "The Good, The Digital & The Human" and subtitled "And The Secret Ingredient, Called Sociocracy."

The essay can be found here. Thanks to this, Miss Dimova is also invited to participate in the youth slot of EU Industry Days 2022 as a speaker in the panels "Inspiring Dialogue with Young Europeans" and "After 2008, after 2020". She also took part in Commissioner Breton's youth dialogue as a representative of Bulgaria among 18 young people from all over Europe. The discussion was about entrepreneurship. Apart from that, she is in the team of 9Academy - a training program for professional and personal skills, and now, in her words, "a happy addition to the Master's programme in Entrepreneurship with a specialization in Business Entrepreneurship".

Youth Essay Competition 2022 of the SME Assembly under the auspices of the EC

UNWE — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 13:26:50 GMT

Dear students,

We are pleased to inform you that the Youth Essay Competition 2022 of the SME Assembly under the auspices of the European Commission has been opened.

The theme of this year's edition of the competition is "Our European economies are highly dependent on fossil fuel energies. How can future young entrepreneurs contribute to a more sustainable economy?" and absolutely all young people from 18 to 25 years of age can apply, both from EU member states and from their neighbors and representatives of those who are partners of the Union. The full terms and conditions can be viewed via the following link:

https://blogs.ec.europa.eu/promotingenterprise/yec-2022-now-open-for-entries/

The three finalists get the opportunity to present their ideas to entrepreneurs from all over Europe, as well as to members from various departments of the EC and other organizations supporting entrepreneurship. The competition covers all expenses for the finalists' visit during the Assembly. The winner automatically becomes a member of the jury for the next edition of the competition.

The deadline for submitting the essay is 7 October 2022.

First meeting between freshmen - future successful entrepreneurs and their teachers

UNWE — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 21:00:00 GMT

Memorable and full of excitement was the first meeting between the freshmen accepted to study in the Entrepreneurship specialty and the professors of the Chair of Entrepreneurship.

The team of the chair presented its history, achievements, the specifics of the training and the opportunities for realization after completing the education at UNWE.

Some of the freshmen talked about their entrepreneurial experiences, ambitions and aspiration to study in their desired specialty.

It is gratifying and encouraging for the professors of the chair that students have applied to the country's only bachelor's program in Entrepreneurship, motivated by their desire to acquire knowledge and develop skills thanks to which they can become successful entrepreneurs.

DIGI WOMEN - The Third, Final, Partner Meeting

UNWE — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 21:00:00 GMT

The third, final meeting of the partners of the "DIGI WOMEN" project was held on September 12 and 13, 2022 in the city of Riga, hosted by the Latvian partner CEBSR.

Originally planned for April, the meeting was postponed to September in line with the extension of the project due to the war against Ukraine, which dramatically affected the workability of colleagues from the project's partner National Technical University in Kharkiv.

The main objectives of the meeting were to review the report with the recommendations with a view to its finalization, the activities for the dissemination of the intellectual products, the discussion of the tasks for the preparation of the final report, and the possibilities for the further development of activities based on the results of the present project.

he following representatives of partner organizations participated in the meeting:

Dr. Zane Zeibote and Dr. Vera Komarova from CEBSR, Latvia;
Dr. Ria Aerts (online), Dr. Paolo Zaramella and Mr Alberto Maistrello from Consulenza Direcionale di Paolo Zaramella, Italy;
Ms. Athanasia Ioannidou (online) from the Greek Association of Women Entrepreneurs – SEGE;
Prof. Igor Kononenko and Assoc. Prof. Marina Grinchenko from the Department of Strategic Management of the National Technical University "Kharkov Polytechnic Institute", Ukraine;
Dr. Mirela Alpeza from CEPOR – Center for SME and Entrepreneurship Policy, Croatia;
Mr. Herwig Simoner from "bit management beratung" GmbH, Austria; and
Assoc. Prof. Kostadin Kolarov and Dr. Silviya Georgieva from the Institute of Entrepreneurship of the UNWE, Bulgaria.

СThe meeting was held at the Innovation Center of the University of Latvia in Riga, whose high-tech equipment allowed an effective combination of face-to-face and online participation, similar to the second partner meeting hosted by Consulenza Direcionale di Paolo Zaramella, Italy.

During the meeting, the main directions in which the realization of the intellectual products, results of the project will be sought – the Curriculum containing a set of courses for training experts in business digitalization and for training women entrepreneurs, and the report with recommendations for use of the curriculum addressed to institutions and organizations supporting the development of female entrepreneurship and, in particular, the digitization of business.

The work programme was supplemented by cultural and social events, which created an atmosphere for informal communication between the meeting participants, and thus contributed to strengthening the mutual trust and teamwork built through the project work.