“Inspire & Impact” in Benalmádena 🌍

From May 19–24, 2025, the picturesque town of Benalmádena Pueblo became a meeting point for passionate changemakers from across Europe. The occasion? Inspire & Impact, a 5-day Erasmus+ Partnership-Building Activity (PBA) hosted by local NGO Costa Connect Asociación.

With participants from 12 countries, this international gathering brought together youth workers, project managers, and NGO leaders focused on one goal: strengthening entrepreneurship ecosystems for young people in remote and rural areas. “Inspire & Impact” was more than just a training. It was a strategic platform for organisations to connect, share experiences, and co-create future projects aimed at boosting youth entrepreneurship, especially in communities often left out of the spotlight.

With support from the Erasmus+ programme, the event focused on five key goals:

• Exploring challenges in youth entrepreneurship education in remote areas

• Strengthening cooperation among youth-focused NGOs

• Using Benalmádena Pueblo as a real-life case study of a dynamic, geographically isolated community

• Mapping opportunities for transnational collaboration

• Designing joint Erasmus+ project proposals for 2025–2026

Throughout the week, participants immersed themselves in interactive sessions, peer-to-peer learning, and collaborative planning. Standout workshops like “Product or Marketing?” and “Are Your Surroundings Business Supportive?” challenged participants to reflect on visibility, impact, and local realities. These sessions weren’t just theoretical, they were tools for action, sparking meaningful dialogue and setting the stage for future joint initiatives.

What made the week truly special was how closely the participants connected with the local community. A visit to Benalmádena Pueblo gave the group a chance to engage directly with local entrepreneurs, gaining insights into the realities of running businesses in remote areas. They also explored iconic local landmarks — Colomares Castle, Parque de la Paloma, Castillo El-Bil-Bil, and the stunning Puerto Marina — soaking up the town’s charm, culture, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Representing countries from Portugal to Ukraine, the organisations participating in Inspire & Impact formed a powerful network of innovators ready to continue the work beyond Benalmádena.

Here’s who joined the movement:

• Costa Connect Asociación (Spain)

• Life Zone Group (Estonia)

• Synergy Bulgaria (Bulgaria)

• Fundacja Herbateka (Poland)

• World Society Builders GGMBH (Germany)

• Jaunatnes Lideru Koalicija (Latvia)

• Jedi Movement (Republic of Serbia)

• NOW Association (Portugal)

• International Volda (Norway)

• Start Now (Georgia)

• Wakeboarders for the Future (Ukraine)

• Association of Citizens CEFE Macedonia Skopje (North Macedonia)

With ideas flowing and bonds forged, the momentum from Inspire & Impact is set to continue. Several joint project proposals are already in the works, with the goal of turning this short-term event into long-term collaboration.

🗣️ “We came here with ideas. We’re leaving with action plans — and partners to make them real.” — Participant Quote