In June 2025, the Erasmus+ project “Empowering Youth Workers for Community-based Social Entrepreneurship” brought together motivated youth workers from across Europe and beyond to learn, share, and create. Hosted by the Armenian State University of Economics, the training provided a dynamic platform for participants to explore how social entrepreneurship can be a sustainable answer to pressing community challenges. With expert-led sessions, field visits, and collaborative workshops, the program created an environment where innovation met practicality, and where dreams began to transform into concrete plans.
For Armenia, the timing of this project was significant. In many parts of the country, young people face a shortage of stable employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas. Economic growth remains uneven, and small communities often struggle to retain their youth, who migrate to cities or abroad in search of better prospects. Social challenges, such as the integration of marginalized groups and the development of sustainable local economies, require fresh ideas and practical solutions. Before this initiative, there was growing interest in social entrepreneurship, yet many community leaders and young innovators lacked the structured guidance, business tools, and international perspective needed to develop impactful, self-sustaining ventures.
The training in Yerevan offered exactly that missing link. The program began by introducing participants to the fundamentals of social enterprise design, from identifying community needs to planning revenue streams and measuring long-term impact. The emphasis was on balancing financial stability with social value, and the trainers ensured that every concept discussed could be applied in real-world situations. Through interactive exercises, participants learned how to analyze markets, engage stakeholders, and manage resources effectively.
One of the most memorable parts of the training was the field visits to successful Armenian social enterprises. These were not large corporations but community-based initiatives that addressed local needs creatively and sustainably. Participants visited enterprises that combined environmental responsibility with job creation, as well as projects that preserved cultural traditions while generating income. Witnessing these examples in action was inspiring, proving that even small-scale ventures can make a significant difference when driven by a clear mission and strong community ties.
Collaboration was at the heart of the experience. Working in mixed groups, participants developed hypothetical social enterprise projects tailored to their own countries. The diversity of backgrounds brought new perspectives to each idea, challenging assumptions and encouraging creative problem-solving. Feedback from trainers and peers was invaluable, helping each team refine their proposals until they were realistic, innovative, and impactful. Evening networking sessions deepened these connections, building friendships and professional relationships that extended beyond the project.
Returning to the Armenian State University of Economics, the experience inspired the launch of a new initiative called “Armenia Social Impact Lab.” This program now serves as a space where young people can receive mentorship, develop business models, and connect with potential investors and partners. Drawing directly on the methods and tools from the Erasmus+ training, the lab guides participants through each stage of developing their ideas—from initial concept to operational business. The focus is on ensuring that every project addresses a clear social or environmental challenge while maintaining financial independence.
In its first months, the Armenia Social Impact Lab supported projects ranging from eco-tourism initiatives in rural areas to urban recycling programs that employed disadvantaged youth. These ventures not only created jobs but also strengthened local pride and community engagement. For many young Armenians, the lab became the first place where they felt their ideas were taken seriously and supported with practical resources.
The impact of this post-project action has been significant. Youth who once considered leaving the country to find work now see opportunities to create change at home. Local municipalities have started collaborating with the lab to support projects that align with their development strategies. International partners met during the training in Yerevan continue to share expertise and resources, proving that cross-border cooperation can lead to tangible local results.
The experience showed that empowering youth workers with entrepreneurial skills multiplies their influence. A single trained youth worker can inspire and guide dozens of young people, who then create initiatives that benefit entire communities. In Armenia’s case, this approach is not only reducing unemployment but also fostering a culture of innovation and responsibility.
Looking ahead, the Armenian State University of Economics plans to expand the Armenia Social Impact Lab to include specialized programs on green innovation, social technology, and cultural heritage entrepreneurship. The vision is to make social entrepreneurship a central part of youth development in Armenia, encouraging young people to see themselves not only as job seekers but as job creators and community leaders.
The journey from the Erasmus+ training to these new initiatives has reinforced one clear truth: when young people are given the tools, confidence, and networks they need, they can turn challenges into opportunities. In Armenia, this means building a generation that is ready to take bold steps for their communities, ensuring that ideas grow into actions and that actions lead to lasting change.