Krakow University of Economics (KUE) – Promoting Inclusive Entrepreneurship and Social Innovation

Date: 26.07.2024
By: TASK4ISI
The Krakow University of Economics (KUE) stays at the forefront of promoting inclusive entrepreneurship and social innovation through various impactful projects. As the lead institution in the TASK4ISI project, KUE is dedicated to advancing skills and competencies for inclusive entrepreneurship and social innovation across Europe. This commitment was deeply rooted in the University’s extensive experience in managing and implementing projects aimed at social and economic development – here are a few examples:

  • Integrated Social Economy Support System (ZSWES)

One of the notable initiatives by KUE’s Małopolska School of Public Administration (MSAP) was the Integrated Social Economy Support System (ZSWES). This project addressed the development and enhancement of the social economy (SE) in Poland. It aimed to establish quality standards for social assistance and integration services, professionalize support infrastructure for SE entities, and improve the competencies of social assistance professionals through training, advisory services, postgraduate studies, study visits, and internships. By raising public awareness about the potential of social economy tools in solving social issues, ZSWES strengthened the local environment for SE institutions through partnerships and collaboration.

  • TASKFORCOME

The project aimed to assist migrants interested in starting or developing for-profit and social enterprises across five Central European countries: Austria, Croatia, Germany, Italy, and Poland. The project focused on creating educational, training, and support tools for migrant entrepreneurs and business service providers, including an E-Learning platform (https://learning.taskforcome.eu/). Additionally, five Local Action Plans were developed with 100 stakeholders, and an investment was made in the TASKFORCOME Community-based Social HUB (CSHUB) in Split, Croatia. The sustainable partnership formed through the TASKFORCOME consortium established a transnational network of social hubs, leading to lasting changes in the support ecosystem for migrant entrepreneurs.

  • Combating Inequalities through Innovative Social Practices (CITISPYCE)

Another significant project was CITISPYCE, which tackled social and economic inequalities among youth in European cities. Through the identification of factors contributing to these inequalities, the project developed strategies, mechanisms, and tools to improve the socio-economic status of young people. CITISPYCE also piloted innovative solutions and integrated successful practices into mainstream public policies, particularly those aimed at social, economic, cultural, and civic inclusion.

  • Responsible University (UEK Odpowiedzialny) – Network of School Innovation and Entrepreneurship Clubs

The “Responsible University” project further exemplified KUE’s commitment to social integration and support for marginalized communities. In collaboration with the Foundation for Economy and Public Administration (GAP Foundation), Małopolska Social Economy Fund (MFES), and Krakow’s business community, KUE established the Krakow Center for Ukrainian Integration (KCIUK). This center provided comprehensive support for Ukrainian refugees in Krakow, offering language courses, integration programs, and a platform for cooperation between various social, business, and municipal entities.

  • Other Noteworthy Projects

KUE’s involvement in numerous other projects, such as the Financial Self-Reliance Training Program for individuals working with children in foster care, and the Coordination and Monitoring System for Regional Vocational Education and Training (SKIMLLL), further highlighted its role in promoting lifelong learning and aligning education with labor market needs. The DISCO project, aimed at enhancing the innovation capacities of European higher education institutions through cooperative learning and knowledge exchange, also underscored KUE’s dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial skills. Krakow University of Economics, through MSAP and various collaborative efforts, remained a pivotal player in advancing inclusive entrepreneurship and social innovation in Kraków-Małopolska region. By leading the TASK4ISI project and building on the successes of its previous initiatives, KUE continued to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of Poland and Europe. Through continuous engagement and innovative projects, KUE was committed to creating a sustainable and inclusive future for all.