Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa
1895
The National Assembly laid the foundations for the establishment of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Bulgaria through a special law. The first chambers were established in Sofia, Plavdiv, Varna, and Ruse. At that time, the Vratsa district was part of the Sofia Chamber. Among the first founders of the Sofia Chamber of Commerce and Industry were the prominent Vratsa merchants, public figures, and industrialists Ivancho Mladenov, H. Vando Boboshevski, and Ivan Tashov.
1901
In 1901, the Chamber also registered the major Bulgarian manufacturer of unique phaetons and carriages, Dimitar Orozov. He was the founder and first chairman of the popular bank in Vratsa, of the local branch of the Industrial Union, and one of the founders of Veslets Bank. In recognition of these merits, he was elected as a long-standing member of the governing body of the Sofia Chamber of Commerce and Industry and of the Grand National Assembly in 1908.
1909–1990
Over the years, the entrepreneurs and merchants of Vratsa defended their interests as active members of the Sofia Chamber and, after 1952, of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
1990
The beginning of radical changes in the country’s economy set new tasks and goals before the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. One of the first decisions of the BCCI Management Board was the establishment of regional chambers of commerce and industry. Preparatory work began in Northwestern Bulgaria for the establishment of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa. At the end of 1990, a preparatory meeting was held.
1991
The Chamber of Commerce and IndustryVratsa was registered on 19 November 1991 under the Persons and Family Act as a non-governmental organization – a legal entity. Among its founders were Marin Marinov, Director of the Chamber until 1996, and Iliana Filipova, the current Executive Director.
In the presence of managers and specialists from almost all major enterprises in Vratsa, a founding assembly was held, and they became the first members of the newly established Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa. A Management Board was elected. Eng. Ivo Vladimirov was elected as the first Chairman of the Chamber. In the beginning, the Chamber operated with a staff of three specialists.
It was housed in the building of the Scientific and Technical Unions in Vratsa.
1992
The Chamber’s activities were based on the principles of voluntary participation and membership, and self-financing. It worked in close cooperation with representatives of local authorities and other non-governmental organizations, as well as with Chambers of Commerce abroad.
In the autumn of 1992, CCI Vratsa signed its first international cooperation agreement with the Chamber of Commerce of Craiova, Romania – a twin city of Vratsa. The first business delegation of 15 Romanian companies visited Vratsa. A business forum and meetings with Bulgarian companies from the region were held. An agreement was signed between the Vratitsa textile combine and Romanian partners.
1993
From 1993, CCI Vratsa had established regional offices in the towns of Lom, Berkovitsa, and Botevgrad and united over 1,500 companies in the Vratsa region and throughout Northwestern Bulgaria, regardless of ownership type.
A cooperation agreement was signed with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hungary.
1994
The Chamber’s priorities were: promoting and protecting the interests of entrepreneurs; supporting Vratsa manufacturers in marketing their products and defending their rights on the domestic and European markets; assisting small and medium-sized enterprises from all sectors of the economy. At the same time, CCI Vratsa actively encouraged and worked with unemployed specialists through qualification and requalification courses, guidance, advice, and consultations on the labour market. It provided strong support to start-up businesses and worked towards their development.
In 1994, two more cooperation agreements were signed with the Chambers of Commerce of Pančevo and Niš in Yugoslavia.
1995
International agreements were also signed with the city of Kavala in Greece, the Chamber of Commerce of Versailles in France, the Lisbon Chamber in Portugal, Rochdale in the United Kingdom, and the Veneto region in Italy.
The first long-term business mission with companies from the region was organized jointly with colleagues from the Vidin Chamber to exhibitions in Graz, Austria, Munich, Germany, and Paris, France.
1996
On 18 September 1996, CCI Vratsa was entered in the register of BCCI-Sofia under No. 9228877500 and became part of the Unified Chamber System. A relatively large number of newly registered member companies was reported, as well as their active participation through the Chamber in international cooperation – organized business visits and meetings in neighbouring countries such as Greece, Turkey, and Romania, as well as in Slovenia, Austria, and Italy. Through its elected delegates, Mr. Evgeni Evgeniev and Ms. Iliana Filipova, CCI Vratsa participated in the Euro Congress of the European Chambers in Athens, where talks were held on joint activities with the Chambers of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Greece. These talks later became the basis for successful partnerships.
At the General Assembly marking the fifth year since the Chamber’s establishment, Mr. Evgeni Evgeniev was elected Chairman of the Management Board.
1997
CCI Vratsa became active in social partnership, as required by the tasks it had undertaken in the interest and protection of its members. Through delegated representation in various commissions and committees, the Chamber participated in the processes of labour market formation and regional development in the region.
At the beginning of 1997, Ms. Iliana Filipova was appointed Executive Director after the retirement of Mr. Marin Marinov.
Implementation began on the first project financed under the EU PHARE CREDO Programme – “New Bridge” – Economic analysis and benefits for the region from the design and construction of a new bridge over the Danube River at Oryahovo-Bechet.
1998
The Management Board decided to include CCI Vratsa as a founding member of a Company for the Employment of the Unemployed pursuant to Article 56 of the Law on Protection Against Unemployment and Employment Promotion.
Participation in a meeting of the UN Economic Commission in Geneva.
1999
In September 1999, the Euro Info Centre EIC BG808 was established within the Vratsa Chamber as part of the European Commission’s network of centres. Its objective was to serve as a First Contact Point with Europe for small and medium-sized enterprises, to facilitate their adaptation to the requirements of the European market, and to provide information and consultations for SMEs from and about the European Union.
The Management Board decided to include CCI Vratsa as a founding member of the newly established Vratsa Agency for Regional and Economic Development.
CCI Vratsa became co-organizer of VRATSA EXPO 99, the first trade exhibition of Bulgarian producers and companies from the region.
It organized visits of Vratsa manufacturers and traders to the specialized jewellery exhibition in Italy, the Hanover Fair, the Thessaloniki Fair, and the Agricultural Exhibition in Izmir.
CCI Vratsa received a number of awards, including a Certificate of Achievement for the successful financing of the project “European Level of Corporate Culture and Consumer Protection in Bulgaria” under PHARE ACCESS ’99 from the Delegation of the European Commission in Bulgaria in 1999.
2000
The international contacts of CCI Vratsa were directed toward similar organizations in the countries of the European Union and EFTA, the candidate countries, as well as Ukraine and Russia.
CCI Vratsa participated in working groups of the European Commission in Brussels; in the Commission for Economic and Social Cohesion for the Northwest Planning Region, where Ms. Iliana Filipova served as Deputy Chairperson of the Commission; in the Regional Council for Economic Development and municipal commissions; and in the Regional Employment Council.
Using the opportunities offered by modern electronic equipment and technologies at the time, the Chamber increased the number of services it offered by adding publication of companies’ annual financial statements.
The Management Board adopted the “Rules of Internal Order” of CCI Vratsa, laying the first brick in the construction of what became the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System.
In 2000, the Management Board also adopted the “Rules for the Financial Activities of CCI-Vratsa”.
The Chamber received a Certificate as a winning organization in the field of “Regional Economic Development” in the national competition for the best project “Made in Bulgaria with the Support of Europe”, awarded by the Delegation of the European Commission in Bulgaria in 2000, as well as an award from the Union of Bulgarian Foundations and Associations.
2001
On the occasion of its 10th anniversary, an agreement was signed with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Brussels. The first business mission with 10 regional companies and the participation of the Governor of Vratsa District was carried out in the heart of Europe – Brussels – including visits and meetings at the European Commission, Rotary Club Brussels, and Belgian companies.
In 2001, CCI Vratsa moved into a new building at 24 Hristo Botev Street.
It received the Television Golden Award for 2001 from “Mihaylov TV” Ltd. and “Television Vratsa” for the development and encouragement of business in the region.
It also received a Diploma from the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the “Hermes” Award in 2001 for rapid progress and implementation of successful projects with the European Union.
2002
On 20 March 2002, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa was registered under the Non-Profit Legal Entities Act for public benefit activities.
CCI Vratsa adopted “Internal Rules for the Control and Prevention of Money Laundering” in accordance with Article 16, paragraph 1 of the Law on Measures Against Money Laundering. The Management Board adopted the “Rules for the Unified System of the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Regional Chambers and for Their Joint Activities”.
CCI Vratsa participated in numerous international and donor-funded programmes, annual congresses, and training for chamber management staff in similar organizations. It participated in the establishment and work of Euroclub-Sofia, together with all Euro Info Centres in Bulgaria. Members of Euroclub included ambassadors of EU Member States and candidate countries.
A number of sectoral business clubs were established: builders, the “Doors and Windows” Association, dairy processors, the tourism sector, and textile companies.
The Vratsa Chamber supported the establishment of a branch of the National Vocational Training Centre within the BCCI system in Vratsa, registered with the Vratsa District Court on 12 July 2002. On 26 July 2002, the NVT Centre – Vratsa branch received a licence for its training activity from the National Agency for Vocational Education and Training.
Participation in the Summit Forum organized by the OECD in Skopje.
2003
On 30 December 2003, CCI Vratsa was entered in the Central Register of Non-Profit Legal Entities for Public Benefit Activities under No. 20031230052 at the Ministry of Justice.
Through its services – conducting seminars, participating in international programmes, providing marketing consultations, assistance in preparing business plans, information on microcredit opportunities for business, consultations on the harmonization of standards and especially on the implementation of ISO 9001:2000, maintaining a database with information on regional companies, financial analyses, and information on projects under EU programmes – CCI Vratsa sought to improve the regional business climate and always to be of assistance to all companies and employers.
CCI Vratsa managed and implemented a number of projects. The most important among them were: “Creation, Maintenance and Strengthening of a European Information Centre”; “Convention for Institutional Strengthening and Training”; “Agreement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Belgium”; “European Level of Corporate Culture and Consumer Protection in Bulgaria”, PHARE ACCESS Programme 1999; “Entrepreneurship in Sofia and Vratsa”; “Promotion of Women’s Entrepreneurship and Development of Entrepreneurship among the Unemployed”; “Agreement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Austria”; and “Programme to Support the Adoption and Implementation of the Acquis Communautaire for Organizations and SMEs in Bulgaria”.
CCI Vratsa became the holder of the unique “Wing of Success” award established by the Mayor of Vratsa.
2004
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa had accumulated solid experience as a non-governmental business organization. Its knowledge of the regional business environment, as well as the national business climate, was a necessary condition for its existence and functioning. An integral part of its work was the provision of consultations and information to companies and citizens, the organization of various types and forms of training, project work, and cooperation with governmental, non-governmental, regional, and municipal structures and organizations. The Chamber’s team possessed tolerance and skills for effective joint work, project development and implementation, and a high level of motivation, reflected in the respect that CCI Vratsa had earned among companies, the population, institutions, and the media in the region.
In recognition of everything achieved over the years, the accumulated experience, the established cooperation agreements with numerous partner organizations, and its successful work with the European Commission, on 7 June 2004 the European Commissioner for Enlargement, Günter Verheugen, visited the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa, accompanied by the ambassadors of the EC Delegation in Bulgaria, H.E. Dimitris Kourkoulas, and the Ambassador of the Republic of Bulgaria to the Mission to the EC in Brussels, H.E. Ambassador Daskalov, as well as the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, Solomon Passy and Meglena Kuneva.
Participation in the Academy organized by the European Chambers of Commerce.
Establishment of the Francophone Club with the active participation of CCI Vratsa.
2005
A decision was taken to transform the representative office of CCI Vratsa in Berkovitsa into a branch and to register it as such.
The period was characterized by exceptional dynamism related to the country’s economic development and the growing challenges for the Chamber’s members. Non-governmental organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa, increasingly strengthened their capacity and position as a factor in civil society. Cooperation through EUROCHAMBRES intensified, contacts with other EU institutions in the field of economics expanded, as did bilateral contacts.
PROJECTS:
“INFORMATION AND TRANSPARENCY IN THE WORK OF THE COURT – GOOD PRACTICES AND SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIPS” under the Judicial Strengthening Initiative Programme, financed by the United States Agency for International Development
BOSS – Business Opportunities and Services for Small and Micro Enterprises; organization of a partnership forum and bilateral business meetings in Padua, Thessaloniki, Greece, and Udine, Italy
ARCA NOVA – A bridge between Eastern and Western Europe
ELIOS – jointly with the Regional Council of the Province of Enna, Italy, for the establishment of a “One-Stop Shop for Starting an Economic Activity”
PROMOTION OF WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP AMONG THE UNEMPLOYED – SECOND STAGE, with financing for 10 newly registered companies owned by women
TRANSITION – a project for textile companies aimed at product traceability from raw material to final product
SAFIR – FP7 programme
Training courses were conducted jointly with the National Vocational Training Centre in the BCCI system – Vratsa branch, for unemployed people to acquire vocational qualifications.
Training was also conducted at the request of employers:
Bank DSK AD, Vratsa branch – profession “Foreign Currency Cashier”;
“Sirena Stil” Ltd. – professions “Garment Sewer” and “Sewing Machine Operator”;
“Enemona” AD, Kozloduy – training of managerial staff on the topic “Competitive Intelligence: Principles, Tools and Techniques”;
BTC, branches in Vratsa and Pleven – training on “Business Planning” under a specially developed programme.
The Chamber was honoured in 2005 by visits from:
Mr. Neil Buhne – UNDP Resident Representative for Bulgaria
Mr. Willy Van Impe – Honorary Consul of Flanders in Bulgaria
Mr. Philippe Beke – Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Bulgaria
CCI Vratsa identified its membership in BAUKO as an important step.
CCI Vratsa participated as a founder and full member in the Belgium-Bulgaria-Luxembourg Business Club Association (BBL Club).
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa signed an Agreement for the Establishment of an Association of Border Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry in the Niš-Sofia-Skopje Euroregion, aimed at improving cooperation and the economies of the territories in which the regional chambers operate.
2006
The number of institutions partnering with CCI Vratsa increased:
Regional Development Council of the Northwest Planning Region
Regional Council for Counteracting Corruption in Vratsa District
Regional Council for Energy Efficiency – Vratsa
Advisory Business Council to the Mayor of Vratsa Municipality
Advisory Council on Tourism to Vratsa Municipality
Monitoring Committee under the SAPARD Programme, Working Group Measure 3.1 “Improvement of Vocational Training”
Committees and working groups under individual ministries – Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works
European Commission Entrepreneurship Action Plan
CCI Vratsa worked to increase companies’ knowledge of European legislation and to present “good practices” in its implementation. It encouraged the development of entrepreneurship through expert assistance, information, and consultations for start-up companies.
Projects:
INITIAL STUDIES AND BUILDING LOCAL CAPACITY FOR PLANNING TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN VRATSA MUNICIPALITY under the Local Economic Development Planning component of the AUPT Programme of the Employment Agency under a Loan Agreement with the World Bank
EUROPE DAYS 2006 – Project motto: “Bulgaria – a European value”
BULGARIA – A NEW IMAGE IN EUROPE, financed within the implementation of the Communication Strategy for the Preparation of Bulgaria’s EU Membership
“VRATSA BALKAN – DIVE INTO THE ADVENTURE”
The project was financed under PHARE 2003 Programme “Economic and Social Cohesion”, Budget Line BG 2003/004-937.11.01 “ALTERNATIVE EMPLOYMENT”
“MUNICIPALITIES, NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS AND BUSINESS – STRONGER TOGETHER”, PHARE / Civil Society Development Programme
REGIONAL CENTRE FOR ATTRACTING INVESTMENT – NORTHWEST BULGARIA (ROSIO)
PHARE 2004 Programme – Economic and Social Cohesion, Grant Scheme for PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP
BRIDGE – BULGARIAN-ROMANIAN INITIATIVES FOR GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF ENTERPRISES, Bulgaria–Romania Cross-Border Cooperation
BUSINESS SUPPORT CENTRES – THE SHORT WAY TO CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION, “Neighbourhood” Programme Bulgaria–Serbia
In 2006, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa celebrated 15 years since its establishment.
2007
Bulgaria became a member of the European Union.
CCI Vratsa stimulated public-private partnership at sectoral and territorial level between public authorities and economic and non-profit entities to enhance their competitiveness.
It cooperated with branch organizations and regional structures to help overcome their specific problems.
CCI Vratsa expanded its services by signing an agreement for off-site sittings of the Arbitration Court at BCCI and its Mediation Centre.
Projects:
Under the Bulgaria–Romania Cross-Border Cooperation Programme:
Planning and development of a concept for establishing cross-border rural markets
Bulgarian-Romanian Ecological Centre for Research and Training
REGIONAL CROSS-BORDER NETWORK OF INFO CENTRES
EUGOSH – European certificate for introducing occupational health and safety conditions in SMEs
Women’s Entrepreneurship Centres – a cross-border network for the future – “Neighbourhood” Programme Bulgaria–Serbia 2005
CE.S.BU. Centri Servizi Bulgaria – Service Centres in Bulgaria – Italy-Bulgaria Business Contact Centre
Establishment of a “Centre for Work, Consultation and Integration of Children and Youth – Vratsa” – PHARE 2004 Programme “Economic and Social Cohesion”
The most frequently discussed issues between CCI Vratsa and its members were related to Bulgaria’s EU membership. The team’s activities focused on preparing opinions and participating in working groups discussing:
conditions and procedures for the absorption of funds under the Operational Programmes, and the continued harmonisation of Bulgarian legislation with European law;
participation in drafts of normative acts prepared by state authorities, and in the development of strategies and reports.
Business meeting with Members of the European Parliament Mr. Nikolay Mladenov and Mr. Vladimir Urutchev.
2008
Ms. Iliana Filipova was elected as a delegate to the European Parliament of Enterprises in Brussels and participated in the 18-member Bulgarian parliamentary group at a regular session during the first session in October 2008. The event was organized by EUROCHAMBRES, the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry, on the occasion of its 50th anniversary, with which CCI Vratsa had cooperated for 10 years.
A total of 774 entrepreneurs from all sectors and 45 European countries took part in the first session of the European Parliament of Enterprises (EPE). Bulgaria was represented by a business delegation of 18 delegates, including Ms. Iliana Filipova, and 8 observers.
CCI Vratsa co-organized the first Bulgarian Danube Economic Forum for the Northwest Region, held successfully in Vratsa;
Participation in a conference organized by EUROCHAMBRES – “European business in a global economy – competition or cooperation”;
Participation in a conference on corporate training and an exhibition in Vienna;
Participation in the thematic conference “Development of competences and knowledge in the SME sector” in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, organized by the European Commission, Directorate-General for Education and Culture;
Joint participation of CCI-Vratsa and DIMPEX company in HELLENIC SHOE FAIR – Greek footwear exhibition;
Participation of CCI Vratsa and regional companies in the First Tourism Exhibition organized by the Oltenia Chamber of Commerce and the Oltenia Tourism Association in August;
Participation in a government delegation to Jakarta, Solo, and Yogyakarta, Indonesia, organized by the Ambassador of Indonesia to Bulgaria, and participation in EXPO Indonesia, business meetings with the Chambers of Commerce of Jakarta, Solo, and Bali;
Participation in “Vratsa Day” at the European Parliament in Brussels;
Organized visit jointly with the Mayor of Vratsa Municipality, Mr. Totyu Mladenov, to the Chamber of Commerce of Liège, Belgium, meetings with the Mayor of Liège, and visits to companies in the region.
In 2007, EICBG808 successfully completed its activities.
Following participation in a new European Commission call, a new European Information and Innovation Centre, part of the European Commission’s Enterprise Europe Network, opened its doors at the beginning of 2008.
Projects:
PRO-ACT – Partnership, development and training for active communication between the third sector and the public administration, financed under the Operational Programme “Administrative Capacity”
“Supporting Young Entrepreneurs – YES FOR CBBC”
PASSAGE – a project under the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Union for the development of an electronic platform for preserving know-how and safeguarding professional knowledge and skills of European textile companies
EuroProc – EUROPEAN REGIONAL COOPERATION FOR SME ACCESS TO PUBLIC PROCUREMENT – Programme: Interreg IV C
In the provision of translation services, integrated customer service was organized.
Regarding the translation and certification of commercial documents, a “one-stop-shop” service was achieved.
2009
CCI Vratsa stated positions on 17 laws and 16 secondary legislative acts, as well as on 11 strategies, programmes, plans, and the following topics: economic crisis, shadow economy, corruption, labour relations, employment promotion, tax and social security regime, regulatory regimes, conditions and procedures for the absorption of Operational Programme funds.
CCI Vratsa conducted an active campaign among companies in the region to present the advantages of the CCI Vratsa register and the services related to it, and worked actively to improve efficiency in job searching and the competitiveness of unemployed people on the labour market, as well as to improve their qualifications.
It informed and consulted member companies on project programmes and tenders with a direct effect on increasing SME competitiveness; organized training, provided consultations and technical assistance in the preparation of project proposals; and encouraged companies’ export orientation through their inclusion in international contact fairs, business missions, and exhibitions.
CCI Vratsa participated in the National Investment Forum in Sofia.
It organized a business meeting with the Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Mr. Rosen Plevneliev.
It held a meeting with a delegation of representatives from the Chamber of Commerce of Niš.
Meeting of regional companies with Member of the European Parliament Ms. Iliana Iotova.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa was approved as a host structure for an information centre from the Europe Direct network for the period 2009–2012. Europe Direct Vratsa opened its doors.
Projects: ECO4B, NET4BIZ.
During the year, CCI Vratsa improved the efficiency, quality, and speed of the services it offered in order to achieve greater competitiveness compared to other organizations and institutions providing similar activities and services. The Chamber’s experts took part in many and diverse training courses, such as:
“Techniques for resolving conflict situations, persuasion and negotiation skills, ethical and professional standards of cooperation between CSOs and the administration”;
Presentation and communication skills, time management, and setting priorities;
Mechanisms of interaction between business organizations and public authorities in the provision of client services (mainly business representatives);
Project management training under the CBC IPA Bulgaria–Serbia Programme;
Project cycle management – GTZ;
Management of Europe Direct centres;
Training on the introduction of a quality management system in the Chamber under BDS EN ISO 9001:2001;
Seminar training organized by the International Labour Organization in Zagreb, Croatia.
CCI Vratsa registered the following social services with the Social Assistance Agency under the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy:
Social Assistant for elderly people;
Home Helper for elderly people;
Social Services Bureau.
2010
In 2010, CCI Vratsa introduced a Quality Management System and was certified under BDS EN ISO 9001:2008.
CCI Vratsa participated in the Bulgarian Economic Forum 2010. It hosted meetings and information campaigns aimed at businesses together with the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, the Regional Inspectorate of Education, the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the Executive Agency for Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises, the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, MEP Maria Nedelcheva, and MEP Vladimir Urutchev.
2011
The “Tolerance, Non-Violence and Anti-Discrimination at School” campaign of Europe Direct Vratsa and the open lesson “CHAPLIN – ‘THE KID’: An Old Film with an Eternal Message (A film with a smile or maybe a tear…) or: A lesson on non-traditional families”, developed by Elka Veselinova Ivanova – teacher of English at Yoan Exarch Language School, were included as a “good practice” in the 2010 Annual Report of the European information network Europe Direct.
The PRO-ACT project – Partnership, development and training for active communication between the third sector and the public administration, financed under the Operational Programme “Administrative Capacity”, was presented as a “good practice” before the Programme Monitoring Committee.
CCI Vratsa’s active position on “Public Procurement” was reflected at European level in the creation/conduct of a Policy Brief (action focus: “Fighting corruption”), a discussion forum, and contacts with the inter-institutional group for the revision of the Public Procurement Act, as well as in the sending of materials from the forum “Public Procurement – Good and Bad Practices”, including a presentation of identified “Good Practices in International Public Procurement”.
CCI Vratsa surveyed companies from the Northwest Region regarding business expectations for 2011, in connection with the initiative to study the business climate in Bulgaria as an integral part of the “EUROPEAN ECONOMIC SURVEY 2011”.
Projects:
BE2WEEN
SHEEP – School Panel for High Energy Efficiency of Production, Consumption and Responsible Behaviour
ESMI
“Increasing the competitiveness of Sole Trader ‘Petrov Consult – Valya Krasteva’ and the adaptability of employed persons through training for acquiring vocational qualifications and key competences” – Operational Programme “Human Resources Development”
“Awareness and partnership in the integration of immigrants”, financed by the European Fund for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals
“Cross-border statistical research centre for SMEs from the Bulgarian-Romanian cross-border region – RESCENT”
“ProConcept – Innovative online project concepts”
Business Support Centres – the shortcut of cross-border cooperation
NET4TOUR implemented by CCI-Vratsa – Berkovitsa branch
“Immigration: opportunity and challenge for Bulgaria”, financed again by the European Fund for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals
CONURBANT, European Commission Intelligent Energy Programme
CCI Vratsa registered as a Training Provider delivering training for unemployed and employed persons under direct grant award procedures under Priority Axes 1 and 2 of the Operational Programme “Human Resources Development”. The Chamber acquired the right to provide voucher-based training to representatives of the target groups in the following key competences:
English language training
Work with basic word-processing programmes
Teamwork skills, effective time management
Effective interaction and communication for sustainable development
Project planning and implementation
Voucher-based training was fully compliant with the applicable legal and secondary legislation, in particular Council of Ministers Decree No. 251/21.10.2009.
On 18 November 2011, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa celebrated its 20th anniversary.
2012
In 2012, CCI Vratsa was an active member of the Monitoring Committee of the Operational Programme “Regional Development” and a member of the Monitoring Committee of the Operational Programme “Transport”.
The number of institutions partnering with CCI Vratsa also increased:
Regional Development Council of the Northwest Region
Regional Council for Regional Development – Vratsa
Regional Council for Healthy and Safe Working Conditions – Vratsa
Cooperation Council to the Labour Bureau – Vratsa
Ministries – Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Ministry of Regional Development
Through BCCI’s participation in the Economic and Social Council, CCI Vratsa was able to express opinions on discussions concerning eight different laws and socially significant issues.
CCI Vratsa made proposals for tax relief and the improvement of the business environment and employment in Northwestern Bulgaria following a meeting with the Director of the Territorial Directorate of the National Revenue Agency in Veliko Tarnovo.
The number of certificates of origin for goods issued by CCI Vratsa increased. During the year, more than 500 free consultations and 6,000 translations, certifications, and legalisations were provided.
In 2012, CCI Vratsa again hosted meetings and information campaigns directed at businesses together with the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, the Regional Inspectorate of Education, the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the Executive Agency for Promotion of SMEs, the Bulgarian Red Cross, and others.
The Chamber continued to maintain the investor database of the ROSIO Centre.
EEN Vratsa co-organized the participation of 60 Bulgarian companies in 10 brokerage events, the most successful being in China and Paris. EEN Vratsa also participated in the first 3D virtual exhibition in the furniture and woodworking sector.
CCI Vratsa participated with an EEN promotional stand during the “Europe for Us” exhibition – 16–18 June 2012 in front of the National Palace of Culture in Sofia. The exhibition was held under the patronage of Minister Tomislav Donchev, responsible for the management of EU funds, and organized by the Bulgarian Economic Forum in partnership with the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria and Sofia Municipality.
The “Step by Step into Europe’s Future” campaign of Europe Direct Vratsa was presented as a good practice during the International Forum “20 Years of the Single Market and 10 Years of European Entrepreneur Day in Bulgaria”, held in October at the National Palace of Culture in Sofia.
The Europe Direct Vratsa and EEN Vratsa centres were recognized at European level as a good practice for their active work and cooperation with the Solvit, Eures, and Eurodesk networks.
From 14 to 16 September, CCI Vratsa hosted and organized the first Cross-Border Tourism Fair, bringing together 65 exhibitors under one roof.
CCI Vratsa received a Certificate of Merit for its contribution to the development of tourism in the territory of Vratsa Municipality in the “Partner” category during the first edition of the national review competition “Municipalities for the Development of Tourism”.
Projects:
CREDIT MANAGERS 4 EU TRADE – European Commission
NO-BLE Ideas – Young InNOvaTORS Network for SustainaBLE Ideas in the Agro-Food Sector, South East Europe Transnational Cooperation Programme
2013
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa became a full member of the Association of Danube Chambers.
At the beginning of the year, CCI Vratsa started performing the functions of a Regional Point of the management unit of the National Rural Network for Vratsa District, administered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food.
The Chamber was also an active member of the Public Consultative Council to the Head of the Regional Inspectorate of Education – Vratsa, the Regional Council for Tripartite Cooperation in Vratsa District, and the Standing Employment Commission to the Regional Council for Regional Development – Vratsa. CCI Vratsa became a co-founder of the Public Council to the Regional Administration – Vratsa, in accordance with the Government Governance Programme adopted on 19 June 2013.
Of exceptional importance was the proposal and contribution of CCI Vratsa to the integration of Vratsa District into the Bulgaria–Serbia Cross-Border Cooperation Programme under the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance, as a factor for enhancing overall competitiveness and expanding territorial cooperation and established partnership with the adjacent areas of the Republic of Serbia.
CCI Vratsa hosted meetings and information campaigns directed at businesses jointly with the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy, the Regional Inspectorate of Education, the Ministry of Economy and Energy, the Bulgarian Red Cross, the Information Office of the European Parliament in Bulgaria, the Regional Information Centre Vratsa, and the Regional Information Centres in Vidin, Montana, Pleven, and Lovech. Events with the participation of Bulgarian Members of the European Parliament – Ivaylo Kalfin, Vladimir Urutchev, Maria Gabriel, and others – were also highly successful.
Particularly successful was the organized participation of Bulgarian companies in exhibitions abroad and bilateral meetings at CCI Vratsa – a delegation from the Republic of North Ossetia–Alania led by the Mayor of Vladikavkaz and the Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce; a delegation of representatives of municipalities and NGOs from Italy, Portugal, and Spain related to tourism development.
For the first time, Europe Direct Vratsa marked 9th May – Europe Day simultaneously in five cities – Vratsa, Montana, Vidin, Pleven, and Lovech. The Centre also hosted the regional EUROSCOLA competition organized by the Information Office of the European Parliament in Bulgaria. A total of nine teams from the Northwest Region participated in the competition.
Together with Vratsa Municipality, CCI Vratsa organized and conducted a number of events during the European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) in Brussels, Belgium (CONURBANT project).
The Chamber acquired the right to provide training and, in 2013, started voucher-based training for representatives of the target groups in the following key competences:
English language training
Work with basic word-processing programmes
Projects:
One-stop-shop points in Bulgaria for third-country nationals, financed under an Integrated Grant Scheme for activities aimed at implementing the “Common Basic Principles for Immigrant Integration Policy in the EU”, co-financed by the European Union
Promotion of cultural tourism in the cross-border region – CULTOUR, financed under the Bulgaria–Serbia Cross-Border Cooperation Programme under the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA)
Quality management for sustainable tourism – QualiTour, Lifelong Learning Programme, Leonardo da Vinci, Transfer of Innovation
Visibility for SMEs (VIS4SMEs)
ECHOES
2014
CCI Vratsa became:
Founder of a Cross-Border Statistical and Research Centre for SMEs from the Bulgarian-Romanian cross-border region
Founder of a Cross-Border Business Support Centre for the provision of cross-border business services and stimulation of cross-border relations between companies
Founder of a Network for Cross-Border Cooperation between Bulgaria and Serbia in the tourism sector
Founder of a Volunteer Network in support of third-country nationals
Co-founder of a “Network of Videoconferencing Centres for Interactive Communication and Cooperation in the Bulgaria-Romania Cross-Border Region”
Co-founder of the Regional Academic Centre – Vratsa
Founder of the “Mito Orozov” Award for innovation, industrial growth, and social responsibility
It organized a business discussion meeting with Dragomir Stoynev, Minister of Economy and Energy; a public discussion meeting with the Institute for Market Economics on the topic “Regional Policies – Problems and Priorities”; and working meetings with representatives of EEN Germany and EEN Romania.
Europe Direct Vratsa marked 9th May – Europe Day with the city’s first flash mob, “My Day in Europe”.
Projects:
New Link – volunteer network in support of third-country nationals, Integrated Grant Scheme for activities aimed at implementing the “Common Basic Principles for Immigrant Integration Policy in the EU”, co-financed by the European Union
Promotional Network of Cross-Border Enterprise Services, Romania-Bulgaria Cross-Border Cooperation Programme 2007–2013
Operational Programme “Human Resources Development” – successfully implemented contracts with the Employment Agency under the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy under the project “Support for Employment” for hiring an unemployed person and the project “Increasing public intolerance of the informal economy in labour-law and social security relations and preventive actions to limit it”
CBC LIVE (Cross Border Cooperation Live Interaction Videoconferencing Network), Romania-Bulgaria Cross-Border Cooperation Programme 2007–2013
InnoWork – Towards a more innovative working environment – ERASMUS+, KA2
I-CIA of SMEs – Improving the abilities of small and medium-sized enterprises to research competition – Lifelong Learning Programme, Leonardo da Vinci, Transfer of Innovation
In 2014, CCI Vratsa established a Career Development Centre within BCCI.
2015
Member of the Monitoring Committee of OP “Innovation and Competitiveness” 2014–2020;
Member of the Monitoring Committee of OP “Science and Education for Smart Growth” 2014–2020.
Among the most important events organized were:
A business discussion meeting with members of the 43rd National Assembly (Vratsa region) on the topic “Concrete support and targeted impact for Vratsa District”
Launch of an information campaign for the first open call under OP “Innovation and Competitiveness” 2014–2020 with the participation of Mr. Bozhidar Lukarski, Minister of Economy
Public discussion meeting with the Institute for Market Economics on the topic “Regional Policies – Education”
Working meetings with representatives of EEN Germany, EEN Romania, and EEN Spain
EEN Vratsa co-organized 15 brokerage events with more than 110 meetings held between Bulgarian and foreign companies.
EEN Vratsa became part of the REACH 2018 Communicator’s Network, whose aim was to promote the REACH Regulation on the registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals used by businesses.
Europe Direct campaigns included: “See Europe, but come back to Vratsa”; “Europe’s Flying People”; the puppet performance “Tell Me a Fairytale about Europe”, created based on the fairy tale “In the Moon Room” by Valeri Petrov and “Telephone Tales” by Gianni Rodari; celebration of 9 May with the initiatives “Dress a European Tree!”, information stands in the form of a “Travelling Circus of European Rights and Freedoms”, the puppet performance “Tell Me a Fairytale about Europe” with the participation of MEP Vladimir Urutchev, and a European culinary exhibition.
On 20 November, with a brilliant ceremony, CCI Vratsa marked the 120th anniversary of the establishment of the oldest active organization representing the interests of entrepreneurs and business in Bulgaria – BCCI – of which the entrepreneurs of Vratsa had been an integral part since the beginning in 1895. The second “Mito Orozov” Award for innovation, industrial growth, and social responsibility was presented.
Projects:
Rural DEAR Agenda – EYD 2015, EuropeAid Programme
“PRO-ACT – for effective networking partnership in support of third-country nationals”, financed by the European Fund for the Integration of Third-Country Nationals
2016
The number of institutions partnering with CCI Vratsa increased – including the Municipal Advisory Council on Youth Issues.
CCI Vratsa actively joined the campaign for the introduction of dual education in Vratsa District through numerous meetings between business, schools, and parents. As a result, in the 2016/2017 school year a dual form of education was offered for six specialties, and the following year the number of specialties would increase by three more.
EEN held a number of meetings and forums in support of businesses, independently and in cooperation with the European SME Centre in China, the Belgian Embassy, the Ministry of Economy, Vratsa Municipality, the Regional Information Centres in Vratsa, Montana, Vidin, Pleven, and Lovech, the Executive Agency for Promotion of SMEs, and others.
Europe Direct Vratsa campaigns: “I Like My Native European City”, celebration of 9th May – Europe Day under the motto “Multicolour Fiesta”, discussion meeting “Mission Possible?”, “International Youth Day Vratsa”, and European Healthy Lifestyle Day were met with great public interest.
Within the project “Rural DEAR Agenda – EYD 2015” (Training Plan for Development in Rural Areas and Raising Public Awareness), CCI Vratsa provided funding to eight pilot projects aimed at new innovative and/or successful proposals for action in the field of development education directed at rural populations, through formal and non-formal educational activities for youth or adults – Dimovo, Belogradchik, Chuprene, Kotenovtsi, Belene, Byala Slatina, Mizia, and Troyan.
The third edition of the International Festival of Ancient Cultures “The Sun of Todorka” was held from 21 to 24 July in the Valoga area near the village of Ohoden, Vratsa region. This year the festival was held under the title “The Traditions of Moesia”. The festival took place with the exceptional organizational and financial support of CCI Vratsa (project “Danube – I can hear you and I will not forget you, I can see you and I will remember you, I can recreate you and I will understand you”).
CCI Vratsa registered as a Training Provider delivering training for unemployed and employed persons under direct grant award procedures under Priority Axis 1 of the Operational Programme “Human Resources Development”. Voucher-based training was fully compliant with the applicable legal and secondary legislation, in particular Council of Ministers Decree No. 280/15.10.2015.
In 2016, CCI Vratsa successfully passed re-certification and implemented the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System.
Projects:
“Danube – I can hear you and I will not forget you, I can see you and I will remember you, I can recreate you and I will understand you”, Interreg V-A Romania-Bulgaria Programme
“Cross-Border Audio Guide”, Interreg V-A Romania-Bulgaria Programme
On 25 November 2016, CCI Vratsa marked the 25th anniversary of its establishment.
2017
CCI Vratsa continued to inform its member companies about programmes and project tenders under the 2014–2020 Operational Programmes, with a particular focus on those having a direct effect on increasing SME competitiveness, by organizing training and providing consultations and technical assistance in preparing project proposals.
The Chamber’s team took part in numerous activities: working meetings with representatives of Reach 2018, the “Intelligent Energy” Sector Group within the EEN network, an information day for Horizon 2020, the EUSDR Annual Forum – European Strategy for the Danube Region, and the annual conference of the World Bank’s PSLO national leaders from the private sector.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa received the “Hermes” Award in the category “Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry in the BCCI system” for its contribution to the achievement of the goals and tasks of BCCI.
EEN Vratsa supported Bulgarian business and research organisations in enhancing their competitiveness and accessing European and global markets by providing integrated services for business cooperation and innovation.
Four public consultations were held on the following topics:
Open public consultation on the reform of VAT rates (proposal for a Council Directive amending Directive 2006/112/EC on the common system of value added tax as regards the rules on the application of VAT rates)
Public consultation on producer liability rules for damage caused by defective products
Nutrient profiles of foods bearing claims / Health claims for plants and plant products and the broader legal framework for their use in foods
Consultation of the SME discussion group — Targeted review of EU consumer protection legislation
Europe Direct Vratsa conducted a series of civic dialogues and debates on the following topics:
“What do we gain and what do we lose from our EU membership”, dedicated to 10 years of Bulgaria in the European Union and 60 years since the signing of the Rome Treaties and 60 years of the European Social Fund. The discussion on what Bulgaria gains and loses from its EU membership, as well as on the future of the European Union, was held with the participation of Mr. Ognian Zlatev, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Bulgaria.
“Bulgaria in the focus of European attention in 2018”, where Deputy Minister for the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2018, responsible for relations with the European Parliament, Monika Panayotova, stated that the priorities of the Bulgarian Presidency would be young people and noted that everyone, through their activity, support, potential, and commitment, could contribute to its success. The topic discussed by MEP Vladimir Urutchev was the importance of the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU in 2018 in the context of the 2017 State of the Union speech by the President of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, and the vision for the development of the European Union until 2025 presented to members of the European Parliament.
“The Investment Plan – why it is important for Europe and for us as an EU Member State”. The event also included a debate on the topic “Does our Europe coincide with the Europe of the institutions?”
In 2017, the Chamber successfully passed the re-certification audit of the system in accordance with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015.
During the year, six new cross-border and transnational projects were launched with the participation of CCI Vratsa.
2018
CCI Vratsa once again participated in surveying companies from the Northwest Region regarding business expectations for 2019, in connection with the initiative to study the business climate in Bulgaria as an integral part of the “EUROPEAN ECONOMIC SURVEY 2018”. The survey was conducted by EUROCHAMBRES for the 26th consecutive year. The results showed that nearly 54% of respondents in Bulgaria expected an improvement in the business climate in 2019, while in 2018 their share had been 63%. Slightly over 46% expected increased foreign sales, and 40% were optimistic about higher demand from the domestic market.
As a member of the Regional Development Council of the Northwest Region, CCI Vratsa attended meetings at which the following issues were discussed:
the new NUTS 2 division of the country and the review of the three proposed options for the new territorial scope;
progress in the activities for the preparation and completion of the Hemus Motorway and, more specifically, the sections passing through the territory of the Northwest Planning Region, including the vision for connectivity with the main directions of the national road network in the area.
The European Information and Innovation Centre in Vratsa (EEN Vratsa) served companies from the districts of Vratsa, Montana, Vidin, Pleven, and Lovech. Eight brokerage events were co-organized, and eight regional events were organized on the following topics:
Discussion meeting – “Economic development of Northwestern Bulgaria – presentation of the Smart Specialisation Strategy for Northwestern Bulgaria”; Innovation and smart growth; Future of cohesion policy – vision for the development of Vidin District until 2030; Successful practices and projects implemented through the operational programmes in Bulgaria; Future of cohesion policy – vision for the development of Montana District until 2030.
Europe Direct Vratsa issued an information brochure on the occasion of the 2018 European Year of Cultural Heritage. Its objective was to raise public awareness in the region of the role of European cultural heritage in promoting a sense of shared history and identity.
It organized Europe Week 2018 in Vratsa and Montana, dedicated to Bulgaria’s membership in the EU and the Bulgarian Presidency of the Council of the EU.
CCI Vratsa implemented a total of 14 cross-border and transnational projects.
2019
As a member of the Regional Council for Regional Development of Vratsa District, CCI Vratsa participated in discussions on the following issues:
new elements in the draft Law amending and supplementing the Regional Development Act proposed for public consultation;
ideas for integrated projects in the territory of Vratsa District in the new programming period, under the main priorities of the Operational Programme for Regional Development in Bulgaria 2021–2027;
Regional Council on Working Conditions – Vratsa District, for discussion of proposals submitted to the Council for employers investing in healthy and safe working conditions in enterprises in Vratsa District; ranking of nominees in the three categories approved by the Council;
participation in a survey of employers’ labour force needs under the Employment Promotion Act;
coordination of the state admission plan for the 2020/2021 school year in schools in Vratsa District.
CCI Vratsa presented to the Standing Employment Commission of the Regional Council for Regional Development – Vratsa a Strategic Model for Modernising Vocational Education and Training through Work-Based Learning under the project “Learning by Doing” under the Danube Transnational Programme 2014–2020.
EEN Vratsa co-organized 13 brokerage events and organized 8 regional events on the following topics: International Forum “Find your professional realization in the EU”; SoCyber – making you feel secure; Occupational safety and health; Information meeting-discussion “We are becoming more and more with Europe” – Ruzhintsi village; Information meeting-discussion “We are becoming more and more with Europe” – Belogradchik; Business challenges and opportunities; Funding opportunities in the fisheries and aquaculture sector; Digital SMEs.
Europe Direct Vratsa sent its representative to the civic dialogue with young people on the future of Europe organized by the European Commission on 8 May in Sibiu, Romania – Niya Vasileva from the Mathematics and Science High School “Acad. Ivan Tsenov” in Vratsa.
In the panel “Europe Direct Centres at the centre of networking – joint work with local partners”, during the Annual Meeting of the Europe Direct network held in Prague, Maria Panayotova together with Elin Andersson from Sweden were team presenters in the session “Mobilising young multipliers/influencers to reach a wider circle of citizens and communities.” The work of Europe Direct Vratsa with our multiplier from Vratsa – Olya Genova – and the participation of 19-year-old Elin in the young multipliers project were presented.
CCI-Vratsa organized two highly successful festivals for children and their families in Vratsa and Ruse – KIDS Project: A Unique Travel Concept in the Romania-Bulgaria Area for Children and Their Families, INTERREG VA Romania-Bulgaria Programme.
In 2019, five new cross-border and transnational projects were launched in which CCI Vratsa was a partner.
CCI Vratsa became a strategic partner of Telerik Academy in the implementation of the Telerik School Academy programmes.
The Chamber underwent re-certification audit under the i2022nternational standard ISO 9001:2015.
2020
In 2020, BCCI awarded the companies with the best performance according to the TOP 100 ranking of the leading companies in the national economy. A regional chamber of commerce and industry, a branch organization, diplomatic corps partners of BCCI, a media outlet, and a journalist were also awarded. In the category “Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the BCCI system”, the “Hermes” Award was presented to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa.
Since 2020, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa has been a co-founder and member of:
the Federation of Danube Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The organization aims to unite and stimulate the activities and initiatives of chambers in the Danube region in line with applicable European policies;
the “Northwest Regional Innovation Centre” within Automotive Cluster Bulgaria. The Regional Innovation Centre is an association for supporting, encouraging, representing, and protecting regional capacity for introducing and developing innovation by strengthening cooperation between business and research organizations, universities, and other scientific and educational institutions;
the “Northwest Digital Innovation Hub” within Automotive Cluster Bulgaria. The hub provides innovative digital solutions to business and local administration in Vratsa and supports their integration into day-to-day operations.
CCI Vratsa informed its member companies about programmes and project tenders under the 2014–2020 Operational Programmes, with a particular focus on those having a direct effect on overcoming the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing SME competitiveness, by organizing training and providing consultations and technical assistance in preparing project proposals.
CCI Vratsa organized the collective stand “Delicacies of the Vratsa Fair” and participated in the AGRA 2020 International Exhibition, International Fair Plovdiv. The following Vratsa companies received awards for their participation:
Hadzhiyski i Familia Ltd. – best product in the Dairy Products category;
Gourmet Santa Sofia Ltd. – best product in the Nuts and Dried Fruits category;
Sole Trader “Dani” – new product in the Processed Fruits category, for rosehip marmalade “Childhood Memory”;
Valka Ltd. – new product in the Bread and Bakery Products category, for spelt bread with a fertility seal.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa received a special award for its contribution to enriching the AGRA International Exhibition.
Within AGRA 2020, International Fair Plovdiv, CCI Vratsa organized site visits, bilateral business meetings, presentation of a joint stand, and an innovative seminar on the topic “Innovation in the Agricultural Sector – the Road to Sustainable Transnational Cooperation in the Balkans-Mediterranean Region”. At the project’s joint stand in Hall 6 of the International Fair Plovdiv, products from the food industry, production processing, packaging, and marketing sectors from the partner countries – Bulgaria, Greece, and Albania – were presented under the Balkanet project “Balkan Network for Sustainable Innovative Ideas in the Agriculture and Food Sector”, Balkans-Mediterranean Programme.
CCI Vratsa developed the BALKANET Electronic Platform for small and medium-sized enterprises in the agriculture and food sector. The platform provides web-based services to SMEs in the agriculture and food sector in the fields of marketing,2022 digital transformation, and circular economy.
The Interreg Europe Programme approved the Action Plan for Bulgaria prepared by CCI Vratsa under the project OUR WAY – “Preservation and promotion of cultural and natural heritage through Greenways”, which envisages the inclusion of Botev Path in the Integrated Territorial Strategy of Vratsa District and its transformation into a greenway and year-round tourist destination in the next programming period 2021–2027.
2021
In 2021, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa celebrated the 30th anniversary of its establishment.
In 2021, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa concluded framework agreements for cooperation and joint activities with the Technical University of Gabrovo and Lead Vision Ltd., thereby expanding the range of its services with:
analysis of business needs and preparation of project proposals for digital transformation and integrated technological solutions meeting all global standards;
consulting on smart metering solutions;
full engineering and project management for the construction of renewable energy sources and innovative energy management solutions;
consulting, design, and construction of complete converged IT solutions;
organization of student internships and practical placements.
In 2021, the new generation of EUROPE DIRECT Vratsa began operating. The Centre’s main task is to continuously raise the awareness of citizens in Vratsa and Montana districts about the European Union, especially their rights and the priorities of the European Union, thereby encouraging active civic participation at local and regional level.
CCI Vratsa continued to inform its member companies about programmes and tenders, with particular emphasis on those having a direct effect on overcoming the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing SME competitiveness. It organized training and provided consultations and technical assistance in preparing project proposals.
In 2021, the Chamber launched two new projects financed under the EU4Business initiative of the European Union / EU4Business: Connecting Companies by EUROCHAMBRES in the fields of creative industries and biofoods, adding new partnerships with the eastern neighbouring countries Georgia and Moldova.
In 2021, CCI Vratsa introduced an innovative adult learning method (e-mail course) under the INCLUDE project financed by the Erasmus+ Programme.
2022
2022In 2022, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa continued to strengthen its position as a key partner for business in the region, ensuring active participation in initiatives, surveys, and partnerships at national and European level. The Chamber took part in the traditional business climate survey within the framework of the European Economic Survey, providing an up-to-date picture of the attitudes and expectations of Bulgarian enterprises.
Among the most important developments during the year was the strengthening of the Unified System of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Bulgaria as a leading employers’ organization in the country following the 2020 assessment of the representativeness of employers’ organizations in Bulgaria.
In 2022, CCI Vratsa organized the collective stand “From Both Sides of the Balkan” and participated in the AGRA 2022 International Exhibition, International Fair Plovdiv. During the event, the company Balevski i Kirov Ltd., part of the collective stand, was awarded a plaque and diploma for the innovation “Finely ground rosehip peel sweetened with finely ground fruit fructose”.
EUROPE DIRECT Centre Vratsa actively participated in national forums of the European information networks, including a joint event dedicated to the implementation and expected impact of the Recovery and Resilience Plan, as well as in the Annual Meeting of the EUROPE DIRECT network. Throughout the year, the Centre maintained active dialogue with citizens, institutions, and media on key topics of the European agenda.
In 2022, seven (7) new cross-border and transnational projects with the participation of CCI Vratsa were launched, bringing the total number of ongoing initiatives to sixteen (16).
2023
In 2023, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa continued to consolidate its role as a major factor for business support in the Northwestern region by participating in the preparation and improvement of the regulatory framework, maintaining continuous dialogue with institutions, and working within a broad network of partners at regional, national, and European level. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa received the “Hermes” Award in the category “Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry in the BCCI system” for its contribution to the achievement of BCCI’s goals and tasks. During the year, CCI Vratsa strengthened its interaction with key institutions through participation in a number of committees and working groups – Monitoring Committees of the 2014–2020 Operational Programmes, Strategic Boards under Interreg programmes, the Regional Development Council, the Regional Development Council of the Northwest Region, Regional Councils on Tourism, Working Conditions, Energy Efficiency, and others. This participation ensured representation of business interests and the sustainable development of the economic environment in the region.
In 2023, EUROPE DIRECT Centre Vratsa worked actively with citizens, students, institutions, and the media. A number of information events were held – Europe Day, civic dialogues, school initiatives, and thematic forums dedicated to the green and digital transition. The publication and dissemination of information materials, as well as online presence through the website, social media, and video channels, also continued.
In 2023, CCI Vratsa marked the thirty-second anniversary of its establishment, paying tribute to the great Bulgarian and citizen of Vratsa, Mito Orozov, on the occasion of the 164th anniversary of his birth, and presented the prestigious “Mito Orozov” Award in the following categories: Innovation, awarded to Czech Plast Ltd.; Industrial Growth, awarded to Lesto Product Ltd.; and Sustainable Development, awarded to Chatoni Wine Complex.
During the year, the Chamber continued to develop its quality management system and was successfully re-certified under ISO 9001:2015, maintaining high standards in the management of services, documents, projects, and personal data.
In 2023, five projects were successfully completed. Three (3) new cross-border and transnational projects were launched with the participation of CCI Vratsa, bringing the total number of ongoing projects to 11 (eleven).
2024
In 2024, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa further strengthened its position as a leading regional business support organization, consolidating its role in the economic and social development of Northwestern Bulgaria. The Chamber continued to develop and expand the scope of its services, strengthen its partnerships, and work actively to improve the business environment through participation in regional, national, and European initiatives.
CCI Vratsa also continued to play an important role as a member of national and regional committees and working groups, including the Monitoring Committees of the national programmes under the 2021–2027 Partnership Agreement, as well as regional and district councils for development, tourism, working conditions, and energy efficiency. This participation ensured representation of business interests and supported decision-making processes at regional and national level.
In 2024, successful partnerships were implemented with international and national organizations. The Chamber worked actively with EUROCHAMBRES, ministries, local municipalities, educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and international partner networks. As part of the Unified System of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Bulgaria, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa collected the necessary documents from 176 of its members in order for BCCI to be recognized as a representative employers’ organization at national level and for the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Vratsa to be recognized as a representative employers’ organization at regional level for the next four years.
In 2024, Europe Direct Centre Vratsa implemented a programme of events, training activities, and initiatives involving students, young people, institutional representatives, and the wider public. Information campaigns on EU policies, discussions, civic dialogues, school meetings, podcasts, and online activities were held. Part of these activities was also the information tour of the EUROPE PROVIDERS NET network in the Northwest Planning Region, which visited five smaller towns, one in each administrative district of the region – Byala Slatina, Belogradchik, Berkovitsa, Knezha, and Teteven. EUROPE DIRECT Vratsa informed the public about the benefits of projects under Bulgaria’s Recovery and Resilience Plan, the benefits of the Schengen area, and euro area membership.
In 2024, six (6) new cross-border and transnational projects were launched with the participation of CCI Vratsa, bringing the total number of ongoing projects to 17 (seventeen).
