In December 2025, youth workers from 11 countries gathered in Kopparberg, Sweden, for the Erasmus+ training course FAME — Unlocking FinAncial and MarkEting Strategies. Held from 10–15 December, the course aimed to engage youth workers in the topic of financial sustainability and marketing strategies, empower them with practical tools to strengthen their NGOs, and create space for meaningful cross-country learning and collaboration.
The programme combined theoretical inputs, peer exchange, and hands-on exercises. Participants explored financial planning models, marketing approaches tailored to civil society contexts, and examples of cross-sectoral collaboration that can strengthen community impact. A memorable highlight was the study visit to Folkets Hus in Kopparberg, showcasing how partnerships between public, private, and civic actors can successfully support local development.
Voices from Zarika’s participants
Two representatives from Zarika Association took part in the course and shared how the experience contributed to their learning and practice as youth workers.
Bistra reflected:
“It was such an informative and inspirational training course. We went through many parts of a very informative tool with financial and marketing strategies for NGOs, and exchanged experiences and tips from our different realities. What I found fascinating was the real example of cross-sectoral collaboration when we visited the Folkets Hus in Kopparberg.”
Blagovesta highlighted the value of the group dynamics and practical orientation:
“This training course was well designed and the tools were very practical. It’s interesting to see the diversity and experience in the group and how everyone can contribute in the learning process. My favourite part was the group activities from which I got to hear a different perspective from other youth workers in different NGOs.”
Their participation not only enriched Zarika’s internal practice, but also inspired knowledge-sharing initiatives back home.
Dissemination events in Bulgaria
Following the course, the two participants organised dissemination activities in Blagoevgrad and Sofia, engaging youth leaders involved in Zarika’s local solidarity projects as well as staff members from the organisation. The events introduced:
- Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for NGOs
- Examples of cross-sectoral collaboration
- Practical marketing strategies for youth organisations
- Approaches to financial sustainability and planning
- How to adapt NGO presentations for different audiences and stakeholders
Participants had the chance to reflect on their own organisational contexts and discuss how FAME tools could be applied in practice.
Feedback from participants
The sessions sparked curiosity and reflection among the attendees, who shared:
“It’s so interesting to learn about how NGOs, private and public sector can collaborate in practice when there is a common goal of bringing opportunities for the community.”
and
“It’s fascinating to hear how you not only change your attitude, but the information you include while presenting your NGO in front of the different targets.”
These reactions highlight the added value of the course in strengthening strategic thinking within the youth work sector.
We would like to express our sincere gratitude to the hosting organisation, Awesome People Sweden, for creating an engaging, supportive and enriching learning environment throughout the FAME training course. Their professionalism, hospitality and commitment to meaningful youth work made this experience truly impactful for all participants. The project was implemented within the Erasmus+ programme and is co-funded by the European Union.