Koroška has new entrepreneurial stories. And the ten people who will write them.

At the Regional Development Agency, we are opening a new chapter of the project Enterprising Beyond Challenges (IGNORE4) for Koroško. This time, we are joined by ten new participants who will develop their ideas, test them on the market, and gradually shape them into viable business opportunities over the next four months.

At the beginning of their four-month entrepreneurial journey, the participants were welcomed by RRA Koroška Director Uroš Rozman and introduced them to the agency's operations and its role in the development of Koroške. He also highlighted one of the key advantages of the PONI program: participants get what we often lack most when implementing ideas in everyday life – time and financial security, so that they can really dedicate four months to developing their business idea. This period allows them to test the idea, upgrade it with new knowledge and gradually develop it into a concrete business venture with the support of mentors.

From artificial intelligence to traditional knowledge

The new group proves once again that entrepreneurship does not have a single form. Among the ideas we find modern digital and marketing solutions using artificial intelligence, an innovative solution for water flow management, creative projects in the field of art and design, and unique products made of leather, textiles, and glass. There is also a place for well-being and quality of life services, children's fairy tales and creative content, modern food products, cleaning services, and the idea of ​​​​reviving the homestead.

Some ideas draw inspiration from tradition, others seek answers to the challenges of modern times. But they all have a common potential – to create new value, respond to people's needs, and enrich the entrepreneurial offer of Koroške.

Entrepreneurial ideas that co-create the development of the region

The diversity of business ideas also reflects broader development directions Koroške. Digitalization, innovation, sustainable use of resources, creativity, and the development of new products and services are important building blocks of a competitive regional economy.

The PONI project thus contributes to one of the key development directions of the region - strengthening the supportive environment for entrepreneurship, innovation and the creation of new business opportunities. At the same time, it encourages entrepreneurial activity of individuals, the development of new services and products, and the creation of conditions for new jobs in Koroškem.

%%GALLERY-

Four months that can change the future of entrepreneurship

In the PONI project, participants do not just stay with theory. During their four months of employment at RRA Koroška, they can intensively devote themselves to developing their business ideas, accompanied by experienced mentors, entrepreneurs, and experts from various fields.

Through practical training, they will gain knowledge in the fields of business planning, finance, marketing, sales, digital tools and other key entrepreneurial content. At the same time, they will research the market, check the responses of potential customers, develop their products and services and establish new business connections. An important part of the program is also networking. It is the diversity of experiences, knowledge and views that often creates space for new ideas, collaborations and opportunities that go beyond an individual business idea.

The goal is clear: to equip participants with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to independently embark on an entrepreneurial journey.

More about the PONI project: www.rra-koroska.si/poni

You can also follow our activities on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PONIKoroska

The next opportunity to join the PONI RRA Koroška program will be with a call for applications published in February 2027.