Process presentation
EcoZani develops an integrated “3T Ecosystem” model designed to support sustainable urban development and economic diversification in Western Macedonia.
Talent
The project strengthens youth entrepreneurship, innovation, and local business ecosystems through business competitions, incubation activities, skills development programmes, and support mechanisms linked to the green economy and circular entrepreneurship.
Technology
EcoZani develops and applies circular economy solutions through the creation of innovative infrastructures such as the Municipal Inclusive Circu-Tech Hub and the UpCycle Creative Reuse Centre. These interventions support sustainable production, creative reuse, circular innovation, and environmentally responsible event management.
Tolerance
The project promotes citizen participation, social inclusion, participatory urban planning, and upskilling/reskilling programmes for unemployed people, vocational education learners, and local communities. Through co-creation and public engagement activities, EcoZani strengthens local ownership of the green transition process.
At the centre of the initiative is the transformation of the Kozani Carnival into a large scale pilot for sustainable urban innovation, combining culture, climate action, circular economy practices, and community participation.
Involved partners
Municipality of Kozani, AN.DH.KO. S.A., CluBE, DIADYMA, University of Western Macedonia (UoWM), Join4CS, Impact Hub, CIVINET, Symbolo, Cocoon Architects, Chliapas, together with local, national, and European stakeholders from the fields of governance, research, sustainability, entrepreneurship, urban development, and civil society.
Impact
- Development of the first 3Z Carnival model in Greece and Europe
- Support for youth entrepreneurship and green innovation ecosystems in Western Macedonia
- Establishment of circular economy infrastructures and urban innovation hubs
- Strengthening of participatory governance and citizen engagement in local development
- Upskilling and reskilling opportunities for unemployed people and young people
- Promotion of sustainable urban development, circular economy, and climate neutral city strategies
- Enhancement of Kozani’s position as a European example of just transition and socially inclusive green growth
Next steps
The next implementation phase focuses on the operational development of the Municipal Inclusive Circu-Tech Hub, the expansion of circular economy activities connected to the Kozani Carnival, and the continuation of entrepreneurship, training, and participatory urban interventions. EcoZani will also continue building peer learning networks and partnerships with Greek and European cities working on green transition, climate neutrality, sustainable event management, and inclusive urban innovation, supporting the long term transferability and scalability of the project’s methodology across Europe.
