As part of the EmpowerNEET MED: Upskilling NEETs through Social and Solidarity Economy Project, the consortium partners conducted a series of visits to local institutions in Catalonia on 21–22 January. The visits aimed to observe and learn from ongoing initiatives that integrate young people into the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) and promote social entrepreneurship.
The partners visited Bloc4, a cooperative space in Barcelona supported by the City Council, which hosts and mentors SSE initiatives and youth-led projects. The visit allowed participants to see first-hand how cooperative models can empower young people at risk of social exclusion.
The delegation also traveled to Gavà, where they met with Delta Coop, a leading organisation in early intervention and public service delivery within the SSE. The partners explored Delta Coop’s approach to generating opportunities for youth and fostering community engagement, gaining insights into best practices for local SSE initiatives.
In parallel, on January 29th, representatives from the municipalities of Caldes de Montbui, Terrassa, Mataró, and Gavà met to exchange ideas and strategies for promoting youth inclusion through social entrepreneurship. These local authorities will be responsible for implementing upcoming activities tailored to the youth in their respective territories.