As part of the National Programme for the Social and Solidarity Economy, the “Innovation Challenge” Open Days concluded today in the wilaya of Batna, in the presence of government officials, local authorities, civil society representatives, youth organizations, and aspiring entrepreneurs 🎉.

The event aimed to promote a culture of innovation and inclusive entrepreneurship by supporting local initiatives that address social, environmental, and economic challenges. Over the course of the open days, a series of dynamic activities were organized, creating an interactive and collaborative space for knowledge exchange and empowerment.

One of the key components of the event was a specialized training workshop designed for competition participants. The training sessions focused on project development, business modeling, pitching techniques, and access to funding opportunities, equipping participants with the tools and skills necessary to refine and implement their ideas.

In addition, attendees had the opportunity to connect with previous winners and beneficiaries of funding from earlier editions of the Innovation Challenge. These interactions allowed new participants to learn from real success stories, discover practical solutions, and gain insights into the challenges and rewards of launching a project within the framework of the solidarity economy.

A panel discussion was also held, bringing together experts, community leaders, and stakeholders to discuss the role of youth-driven innovation in achieving sustainable local development. Emphasis was placed on the importance of collaborative approaches, community-based initiatives, and the use of digital tools to scale social impact.

The event concluded with an award ceremony honoring the winners of the first cohort of the Innovation Challenge. These young innovators were celebrated for their creative, impactful, and sustainable projects, which address real needs within their communities. Each winner received recognition, mentorship, and support to further develop and scale their initiatives.

This event is part of a broader national strategy to encourage innovation, strengthen social entrepreneurship, and support the creation of resilient ecosystems through partnerships between public institutions, civil society, and international development actors.