PONI PROJECT of Pomurje
About this good practice
PONI Pomurje 2023–2028 is part of the comprehensive national project "Entrepreneurial Over Challenges", which is implemented in Pomurje. While PONI Pomurje focuses on the Pomurje region, the PONI program is implemented throughout Slovenia.
Inclusion in the project will take place by applying for a public tender, which is published on the website of the RCMS. Candidates must have a permanent or temporary residence in the Pomurje region. They will choose up to 11 people from among the registered candidates. Participants are employed at the DC Murska Sobota for the duration of the 4-month program and receive a monthly salary, ensuring financial stability while developing their business idea.Participants receive intensive business training, mentorship, and expert consultations to refine their business model, gain market insights, and develop key entrepreneurial skills. Each participant works on a comprehensive business plan, refining their idea with professional support. In terms of financial resources, the total budget for 4 years of €1.538.272 (85% ESRR, 15% Slovenian fund) is allocated across various project activities. This includes costs for mentoring, training sessions, the employment of participants and mentors, and administrative tasks related to project management.The unemployed are also eligible for the programme and their employment period runs out at the same time.
Expert opinion
Resources needed
The project is implemented within the framework of the European Cohesion Policy Program (2021-2027). Priority task 1: Specific Objective RSO1.3. Strengthening the sustainable growth and competitiveness of SMEs and creating jobs in SMEs, including through productive investments (ERDF).
Evidence of success
The PONI Pomurje project is considered a good practice due to its proven success in fostering entrepreneurship and contributing to the economic development of the Pomurje region. One of the key indicators of its success is the number of new legal entities established because of the program. During the previous programme period, the project successfully supported the creation of 28 new legal entities in Pomurje, showcasing its impact on local entrepreneurship.
Potential for learning or transfer
The PONI program is a highly transferable model that can be adapted to other regions seeking to boost rural entrepreneurship, youth employment, and innovation. Practice is valuable for learning and replication elsewhere, along with factors that can either facilitate or hamper its transferability. Other regions can replicate this by developing local mentorship networks and connecting young entrepreneurs with experienced business professionals. Also policy makers in rural regions could use PONI as a template to retain young talent and encourage small-scale, locally driven businesses. Business incubators, vocational training centers, or chambers of commerce in other regions could integrate this methodology into their entrepreneurial support programs.
Further information
Images
