The transition of former mining regions to a sustainable development model requires innovative approaches, partnerships, and targeted policies. The Just Transition Institute Greece (JTIG) participates in SIJMA, an Interreg Europe project that aims to promote social innovation as a tool for job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities.
With partners from Spain, Greece, North Macedonia, Hungary, and Germany, the project seeks to establish a strong network for knowledge exchange and best practices, helping transition regions shape new sustainable development strategies in the field of Social Innovation.
Key Objectives of the SIJMA Project:
- Strengthening social innovation as a key driver for new employment opportunities and entrepreneurship in former mining regions.
- Designing improved regional policies that support sustainable development and the social economy.
- Creating and supporting Living Labs, which will serve as experimental platforms for testing and implementing solutions in local communities.
- Bridging the public and private sectors, fostering collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and social stakeholders.
- Facilitating the exchange of best practices between participating regions to enhance the capacity for adapting innovative solutions at a local level.
- Supporting youth and social entrepreneurship through specialized mentoring programs and capacity-building initiatives.
- Empowering local communities, promoting participatory decision-making for shaping sustainable development strategies.
JTIG’s Role in the SIJMA Project
As a partner from Western Macedonia, JTIG contributes to the implementation of the project through:
- Its initiatives towards the Regional Authority, aiming at integrating social innovation into regional development policies under the 2021-2027 Programming Period.
- Organizing thematic workshops and study visits in Western Macedonia, bringing international experts and best practices to the region.
- Developing new policies for social entrepreneurship and participatory governance.
- Disseminating project results to local stakeholders, businesses, and policymakers, fostering awareness and engagement in utilizing the project’s proposed solutions.
A Project that Shapes the Future
SIJMA is not just an experience-sharing initiative; it is a strategic effort that provides former mining regions with complementary policy tools to enhance their future development prospects. Through JTIG’s active participation, the project will support the ongoing transition of Western Macedonia towards a more sustainable economic and social landscape.