From shared learning to new business partnerships: SPRING partners review the programme’s first year

The SPRING programme is funded by Sweden and jointly implemented by the Sarajevo Economic Region Development Agency SERDA, the Mozaik Foundation and Eda – Enterprise Development Agency. SPRING represents a continuation of Sweden’s ongoing support for improving the competitiveness of enterprises and the economy of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Joint review and exchange of experiences

The partners presented the results achieved so far, current and planned calls, as well as activities that will be available to enterprises, entrepreneurs and communities across Bosnia and Herzegovina in the coming period.

A dedicated part of the meeting focused on learning among partners and exchanging practical experiences. The topics discussed included connecting entrepreneurs and small businesses with larger companies, integrating them into supply chains, and other ways in which support provided through the programme can contribute to their development.

The ideas and conclusions arising from these discussions will be used in the partners’ future activities, as well as in the work of the Policy Lab, a programme component that connects practical experience with the development of public policy recommendations and solutions.

The meeting also covered the next steps in monitoring results, learning and adapting programme activities, as well as the establishment of and preparations for the first meeting of the programme’s Advisory Board.

Swedish support and business connections between the two countries

On the second day, the discussions focused on strengthening economic links between Sweden and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as on how companies from Bosnia and Herzegovina can become part of Swedish and broader European value chains. Such connections can pave the way for new business partnerships, access to markets and long-term cooperation between companies from the two countries and the European Union.

In the coming period, the partners will continue implementing the planned calls and activities and exchanging knowledge. The joint work of the three partner organisations, with the support of Sweden, remains the foundation of the SPRING programme’s contribution to a more competitive and resilient economy in Bosnia and Herzegovina.