At the end of August, we had the pleasure to host the first camp for green startups in Bulgaria - GreenUp. The purpose of the event is to support young people with ideas and enthusiasm to start a sustainable business.

In the first days, pressing environmental issues were discussed and innovative solutions were sought. The participants focused on some of the problems, and thenewly established teams generated initial ideas and presented them to the rest of the participants for discussion. Gradually, topics such as: circular economy, business planning (and in particular, the startup approach), business analytical thinking, sustainable reporting and presentation skills, were introduced.

The young participants were guided by mentorsfrom the businessworld and the most successful environmental startups in Bulgaria. Within a week, five teams developed ideas for green businesses: production of modular glasses from recycled plastic; composting of vegetable waste from restaurants and supplying composters to agricultural producers; production of metal boxes for catering services, replacing those for single use; production of soft furniture from recycled cigarette butts; a platform for shared workspaces.

On a competitive basis, a jury of experts determined which of the teams will receive funding to implement their idea. To this end, Botanica Life Foundation provides a prise fund of BGN 5,000.

A lot of positive energy accompanied the whole event, and we are all looking forward to how young entrepreneurs will realise their innovations on the Bulgarian market.

We thank Zero Waste Ltd. for the partnership and the brilliant organisation of the event!