This project, led by Lens, financed by the Swiss government through EYE programme, focused on providing strategic support to social enterprises in Kosovo, building on the first-ever study on the state of social entrepreneurship in the country, published in 2017 under the title Rise of Future Leaders. Its main goal was to foster social entrepreneurship as a tool for youth inclusion and employment by adapting international best practices to the local context.
A key component was a 12-week accelerator program for 10 selected organizations, supported by local and international experts, alongside the creation of a self-assessment toolkit for impact measurement and a practical guide for social enterprises. The project also introduced mentorship, a “Dragons’ Den” pitching event, and the establishment of a Social Enterprise Network and online platform.
Through awareness campaigns, video stories, and a national Social Enterprise Week, Lens promoted social innovation and advocated for supportive legislation, laying the groundwork for a sustainable model of social entrepreneurship in Kosovo.