About UNIZO Oost-Vlaanderen

UNIZO Oost-Vlaanderen is the regional branch of UNIZO, the largest organisation representing self-employed entrepreneurs and SMEs in Flanders (Belgium). We support businesses throughout every stage of their entrepreneurial journey by offering networking opportunities, expert advice, training, advocacy and tailored services. Our mission is to strengthen entrepreneurship and contribute to a thriving regional economy by helping SMEs innovate, grow and remain resilient. Through close collaboration with businesses, educational institutions and public authorities, UNIZO Oost-Vlaanderen actively promotes lifelong learning, entrepreneurial skills and sustainable business development.

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Role and contribution

Within the DEGREE project, UNIZO Oost-Vlaanderen represents the SME perspective and ensures that the project's methodologies and tools respond to the realities and needs of small and medium-sized enterprises. We contribute to the co-design and validation of learning approaches that foster entrepreneurial behaviour, innovation and resilience in the workplace. In addition, we recruit and engage SMEs for the pilot activities, facilitate collaborationbetween businesses, VET providers and higher education institutions, and help translate research outcomes into practical solutions for companies. The project is coordinated within UNIZO Oost-Vlaanderen by i.a. Doreen Schouterden and Karlien Erregat, who work closely with the European consortium and participating SMEs.

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