This Manifesto of Foreign Entrepreneurs in Bulgaria represents the collective voice of foreign entrepreneurs and business founders in Bulgaria seeking to improve the entrepreneurial ecosystem for international talent. We come from many countries, cultures, and backgrounds, working across diverse sectors - from technology and creative industries to services, hospitality, and manufacturing. We have chosen Bulgaria as our home for innovation and growth. We care deeply about this country and are committed to seeing it stronger, more successful, and more connected to the global economy.

We call upon policymakers, institutions, and the business community to come together in meaningful dialogue and joint action to strengthen Bulgaria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. As foreign entrepreneurs, we stand ready to contribute our perspectives and solutions as part of this collective effort.. Our community needs policies that address real-life obstacles and bureaucratic, legal, and financial barriers foreign entrepreneurs face. Bulgaria has much to gain from smart migration and entrepreneurship policies. Successful global economies have demonstrated that when countries welcome international talent and investment, they boost innovation, create jobs, and enhance their economic competitiveness. Inclusive support for entrepreneurial growth and integration, and networks that enhance Bulgaria's position in the global economy are essential for this goal. 

Our vision

We envision Bulgaria as a thriving hub for international entrepreneurship where foreign founders can seamlessly integrate into the business ecosystem, contribute to economic growth, and leverage Bulgaria's unique position at the crossroads of innovation in Southeastern Europe.

Our contributions

As foreign entrepreneurs in Bulgaria, we commit to:

• Bringing expertise, innovative business models, and new technologies to the Bulgarian market
• Creating high-quality jobs for local talent
• Opening access to international markets and investment networks
• Contributing to Bulgaria's economic growth and enhancing its reputation
• Sharing knowledge with the local business community
• Promoting Bulgaria as an attractive destination for business and investment

Our needs

To realize our vision and maximize our contributions, we require targeted improvements in several key areas from the government administration:

Streamlined administrative procedures

• Simplified business registration for foreign entrepreneurs 
• Fairer and more transparent bank account opening procedures for foreign entrepreneurs 
• Clear and efficient visa and residence permit processes
• Digital-first government services that reduce paperwork

Information access

• Centralized, user-friendly online resources offering up-to-date, clear, and accessible information on business regulations, taxation, compliance, and funding — with full English-language availability and practical guidance for foreign entrepreneurs

Supportive business infrastructure

• Introducing an incentive mechanism for stimulating angel investors
• Amend the Investment Promotion Act to attract strategic investors in high-value-added sectors in Bulgaria’s less developed regions.
• Improved cooperation between universities, businesses, and government institutions

Moreover, Bulgaria's business community, NGOs, and participating organizations can develop comprehensive community support systems — creating both meaningful impact and viable business opportunities:

• Networks connecting foreign and local entrepreneurs
• Mentorship programs designed for foreign business owners
• Cross-cultural business networking opportunities
• Facilitated communication channels with government agencies and support organizations

These community-driven initiatives represent significant business opportunities for service providers while addressing the most unanimously valued need among entrepreneurs in Bulgaria at every stage of their journey.

A welcoming environment where international business founders thrive alongside local entrepreneurs benefits everyone, from Bulgarian companies to the larger international business networks. Together, we can transform Bulgaria into a premier destination for international entrepreneurs and foreign investment, strengthening the country’s economy and enriching society as a whole.

This manifesto represents the collective voice of foreign entrepreneurs in Bulgaria. It is based on experiences shared through focus group discussions and expert interviews conducted with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Bulgarian Entrepreneurial Association BESCO, and attorney-at-law Plamen Stefanov by Anastasiia Dehtiarova. The manifesto was created in 2025 in partnership with Multi Kulti Collective, as part of the Mentorship and Ambassador Program by New Women Connectors. 

Additional resources:

• Resource guide for foreign entrepreneurs in Bulgaria
• How we created the “Manifesto of Foreign Entrepreneurs in Bulgaria”

Active Sofia 65+: Together for a More Fulfilling Life is an innovative project by Multi Kulti Collective aimed at improving the quality of life and social inclusion of people aged 65 and over in Sofia. The project targets 250 Bulgarians and migrants/refugees living in social isolation due to limited income, poor health, or language barriers. The project seeks to address their needs through educational activities and social events, while also fostering intergenerational and intercultural dialogue through the active participation of 50 young volunteers and lecturers from the civil sector, including English Language Café and the Desi, Where Are You? Foundation. It also aims to strengthen the two-way integration process between locals and newcomers. 

Key activities include: 

- 6 educational workshops on topics such as digital literacy, mental health, healthy eating, internet scams, fake news, critical thinking, artificial intelligence, and more 
- 4 off-site cultural and social events such as a walk in Vitosha, a visit to a mineral bath, an exhibition, a concert, and others 
- 6 educational events as part of the English Language Café program – introducing different cultures, historical periods, and culinary traditions through presentations, demonstrations, and small-group discussions 
- Promotion of the project through social media and media partners, giving voice to older adults 
- Impact assessment of the project 

The project ensures sustainability by creating Viber and Facebook groups that will continue functioning after its completion. The involvement of young people – as volunteers and educators – contributes to building communities based on solidarity, empathy, and mutual support. Active Sofia 65+ offers a modern, inclusive model of social integration that empowers older adults to be full participants in the public life of the capital. 

Project News and Updates:

- EVENT: Step by Step – An Honest Talk About Weight (and Age) (11 December 2025)
- EVENT: World Language Café (2 December 2025)
- EVENT: New Year Felt Decorations with Sava-Kalina Angelov-Zhunich (24 November 2025)
- EVENT: A Calm Mind, a Joyful Heart: Everyday Mindfulness After 65 with Vassilis Xypolias (19 November 2025)
- EVENT: Healing Chair Gymnastics with Maya and Katya from Serdika Studio (11 November 2025)
- EVENT: Walk Above Lake Pancharevo (An English-Friendly Event) (8 November 2025)
- EVENT: Therapeutic gymnastics with Maya and Katya from Serdika Hall (30 October 2025)
- EVENT: Neurographica Workshop: “The Power of Gratitude” with Iva Misheva (28 October 2025)
- EVENT: Tea tasting with Irina Filipova from Momenti (14 October 2025)
- EVENT: Vitosha Hike 65+ (7 October 2025) - POSTPONED DUE TO BAD WEATHER! 
- NEWS: The Bulgarian News Agency BTA covered the project launch (1 October 2025)
- EVENT: International Day of Older Persons: Sofia’s Specifics and Perspective (1 October 2025)
- NEWS: Bulgaria National Radio interview with Maria Stoimenova (1 October 2025)
- NEWS: TV Evrokom interview with Bistra Ivanova and Liliya Ivanova (30 September 2025)
- EVENT: Lang Thang or Wandering with Cindy and Craig (24 September 2025)

Timeline: August 2025 – February 2026 
Partners: Multi Kulti Collective (lead partner), English Language Café, Desi, Where Are You? Foundation 
Funding: Our Parents Fund, BCause Foundation

The highly successful Migrants Got Talent initiative, which Multi Kulti Collective has been developing by since 2021, continues in 2025 with a renewed focus on communication activities that showcase the invaluable contributions of migrants to Bulgarian society. 

Through a series of 12 in-depth journalistic pieces in leading media outlets such as Bacchus, Az Cheta, Jasmin.bg, and others, our chairperson, Bistra Ivanova, will spotlight the talents, skills, and achievements of migrants in Bulgaria. The initiative actively challenges racism, discrimination, and hate speech, striving to foster a more inclusive and just society - one where human rights are safeguarded, and diversity is recognized as a strength. 

From 2021 to 2024, Migrants Got Talent produced 416 media publications across more than 35 major outlets. In 2022, the initiative was awarded the Human of the Year grand prize by the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee. That same year, Bistra Ivanova, the driving force behind the campaign, received the Agent of Change national award from JAMBA in the Communicator category for her impactful work. These accolades underscore the project's vital role in shaping public perceptions of migrants and reinforcing their positive presence in Bulgarian society. 

Project news:

• Interview with the Ukrainian poet Anna Bahryana in Az cheta (4 April 2025)

Beneficiary: Journalist Bistra Ivanova 
Funding: You and Lidl for Our Tomorrow
Timeframe: January – December 2025 

This publication was created as part of the Migrants Got Talent 2025 project. The project is made possible through Lidl Bulgaria's largest social responsibility initiative, You & Lidl for Our Tomorrow, in partnership with the Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation, the Bulgarian Donors’ Forum, and the Association of European Journalists. The content is the sole responsibility of Bistra Ivanova and does not reflect the official views of the funding organizations.

Photo Workshop 66 is an original project by internationally acclaimed photographer Michaela Vatcheva, who has been running a training and mentoring programme for unaccompanied minor refugee children from the Middle East in Sofia since 2023. As a result of social, cultural, and family circumstances, migrant children often face illiteracy, isolation, and limited prospects for future development in Europe.

The project empowers the young refugees through photography, providing tools for self-expression and self-reflection, helping them overcome isolation and marginalization, promoting diversity, and advocating for human rights. It also works towards greater social justice by addressing systemic exclusion and ensuring the meaningful inclusion of vulnerable groups. By raising awareness of the existence, challenges, and successes of unaccompanied refugee children, the project offers a glimpse into their world - fostering empathy, solidarity, and acceptance within society.

Over several weeks, the children undergo an intensive photography training course, after which they create their own original photo projects. The program culminates in a group photography exhibition in Sofia city center, engaging local authorities, international organizations, institutions, NGOs, media, and the public. At the end of the program, each child receives a professional digital camera as a gift, enabling them to continue their creative and professional development. Ultimately, Photo Workshop 66 gives refugee children hope for a better future.

In 2024, the project was recognized by the European Commission as a best practice.

Project news:

• An Anthropological Lens on Photojournalism: Andreea Câmpeanu on Conflicts and Displacement (9 October 2025)

• Photo exhibition (7-12 October 2025)

• Lecture by Michaela Vatcheva at the IOM Conference (17 June 2025)

• Lecture by Michaela Vatcheva at English Language Café (28 May 2025)

• Lecture by Michaela Vatcheva at PechaKucha Sofia (25 April 2025)

• Lecture by Bistra Ivanova at a GLAS Foundation event (13 April 2025)

• Reuters made a generous donation of 7 professional cameras for unaccompanied minor refugee children (April 2025)

• Project launch ceremony (9 January 2025)

Timeframe: February - October 2025
Funding: You and Lidl for Our Tomorrow + an in-kind donation of 7 professional cameras by Reuters

This publication was created as part of the Photo Workshop 66 project. The project is implemented with the support of Lidl Bulgaria's largest social responsibility initiative, You & Lidl for Our Tomorrow, in partnership with the Workshop for Civic Initiatives Foundation and the Bulgarian Donors’ Forum. The content is the sole responsibility of the Multi Kulti Collective and does not reflect the official views of the funding organizations.

The project Migrant Women Are Strong: A Holistic Approach to Combating Gender-Based Violence focuses on the protection, empowerment, and support of migrant and refugee women in Bulgaria who are at risk of gender-based violence. 

The project includes: 
(1) Research and Assessment: Analyzing the legal framework, policies, needs of the target group, and their access to protection services. 
(2) Recommendations and Advocacy: Developing policy recommendations and advocating for legislative changes. 
(3) Community Engagement: Working with the migrant community to raise awareness, empower women, sensitize men, provide social services, and refer victims to appropriate support. 
(4) Raising Public Awareness: Engaging the local community by creating a broad coalition of NGOs and service providers, conducting a communication campaign, and organizing a socially engaged exhibition. 

This holistic approach ensures protection and access to services for migrant and refugee women while fostering a shift in attitudes toward gender-based violence within both migrant and local communities. It also seeks to engage policymakers in driving sustainable change. 

Project news:

• Open Call for NGOs that work with migrants (deadline: 10 May 2025)

Timeline: December 2024 – June 2026 
Funding: With the financial support of the Bulgarian Fund for Women and the European Union. The views and opinions expressed, however, are solely those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Bulgarian Fund for Women, the European Union or the European Commission Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers. Neither the Bulgarian Fund for Women, the European Union, the European Commission, nor any of their respective structures or entities can be held responsible for these actions or outcomes.

The project From Words to Stories is a national initiative, proposed by a coalition of LGBTIQ, Roma and migrant organizations, along with the Association of European Journalists – Bulgaria with the main objective to counteract hate speech with focus on xenophobia, homophobia and transphobia along with other forms of intolerance. It will build capacity across communities and professionals and offer training, communication and advocacy efforts to expose the negative effects of hate speech on individuals, social groups and society as a whole; and on creating and promoting counter-narratives, including stories of resilience and diversity. 

The project builds on the experience of project partners in taking a multidimensional and cross-community approach on intolerances in general and hate speech in specific. In addition, the project puts forward the importance of stories of facing, overcoming and countering hate speech and intolerance, which is also reflected in its title. To do that, the project builds capacity in story-holders (minority youth and allies) and story-tellers (journalists, media professionals and content creators); it build bridges between them and equips them with specific knowledge and attitude (for journalists) and practical skills and awareness (for youth) to better tell stories. 

The project then invests heavily in making these stories heard by the general public, using various channels and tools (media publications, youth-led and co-created media content, movie, social engaged art, outdoor and online campaigns, etc.), while at the same time increasing reporting levels and engaging relevant authorities.

Timeline: December 2024 - February 2026
Partners: GLAS Foundation (leading partner), Bilitis Foundation, Association of the European Journalists - Bulgaria, Pro European Network, Multi Kulti Collective (all from Bulgaria)
Funding: European Commission, CERV programme

The Socio-cultural integration for refugee women and children from Ukraine project promotes the socio-cultural integration of refugee women and children from Ukraine, creates connections between newcomers and the host society and raises public awareness of forced migration by countering discrimination, xenophobia and hate speech. The project builds on the A Nice Day initiative, aimed at refugee women and children from Ukraine, which received the Bulgarian Helsinki Committee Human of the Year 2022 grand prize.

The first activity involves organizing 15 socio-cultural events for refugee women and children from Ukraine. Children and women of other nationalities are also invited to them in order to promote mutual integration between the two groups. Community events encourage participants to communicate, learn about each other and spend time in a safe environment. Examples include creative evenings, literary readings, art workshops, wool felting, cooking, visits to cultural and historical landmarks, etc.

The second activity envisages communication activities aimed at Bulgarian society, which give visibility to refugees and their successful integration.

Project news and updates:

• Nowruz - the Afghan New Year, 22 March 2025

• Poetry Night, 20 March 2025

• Children's workshop on Bulgarian folk dances, 26 February 2025

• Jewelry Workshop, 21 February 2025

• Vision Board: Art Workshop, 14 January 2025

• Shared Christmas Dinner, 25 December 2024

• Yalda Night, 22 December 2024

• Interview with the project team on the Bulgarian National Radio, 3 December 2024

Time frame: November 2024 – August 2025
Funding: Bulgarian Fund for Women

The project U4EU 2.0: Youth Shaping Europe's Tomorrow is the successor to the project U4EU: Youth Debating the Future of Europe (2020-2022). U4EU 2.0 continues its mission to empower young people to actively shape the future of Europe, with a primary focus on enhancing youth engagement, democratic participation, and policy advocacy. U4EU 2.0 features a series of youth summits, thematic workshops, training sessions, policy development, and advocacy efforts conducted in nine EU countries. These activities address critical challenges faced by young people, including limited engagement in policy-making, awareness gaps regarding EU institutions and policies, digital literacy deficiencies, and disparities in gender and diversity participation. 

Through transnational collaboration and leveraging insights from extensive research and prior experience, U4EU 2.0 equips young participants with essential skills, knowledge, and opportunities to become active stakeholders in shaping a more inclusive and democratic Europe. U4EU 2.0 is not just a finite endeavor; it aims to leave a lasting legacy of informed, engaged, and empowered young citizens who continue to advocate for positive change in Europe. By promoting youth participation, strengthening democratic values, and fostering inclusive policies, U4EU 2.0 is a beacon of hope for a brighter European future. The project intends to promote a greater sense of belonging to the EU and its core values among young Europeans. 

Project developments:

• Youth Workshop on Drafting Impactful Policy Recommendations (Sofia, 16-17 October 2025) - FB event | photos | Youth Recommendations

• Youth Workshop on Migration, Discrimination and Intolerance (Lisbon, 14-15 November 2024) - Photos | Youth Recommendations 

• Youth Workshop on Globalization, Gentrification and Culture (Barcelona, 20-31 October 2024) - Photos | Youth Recommendations 

• Youth Summit on the Future of Europe (Athens, 8 July 2024) - FB event | Photos | Youth recommendations 

• Newsletter #1 (May 2024) - English | Bulgarian

Time frame: May 2024 – April 2026 
Partners: ANCE (Greece) – leading partner, NOUS (Italy), Clube Intercultural Europeu (Portugal), Cross Cultural Bridges (Netherlands), KMGNE (Germany), UNITED for Intercultural Action (Hungary), VOLONTEUROPE (Belgium), Associació Mitjans - Xarxa d'Educadors i Comunicadors (Spain), Multi Kulti Collective (Bulgaria)
Funding: European Commission, Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values Programme

The project "No Racism in the Election Campaign for the European Parliament" of Multi Kulti Collective aims to raise awareness and discuss the harmful effects of racism in various social aspects, incl. as a pre-election political tool in the Bulgarian political campaigns and especially in the light of the upcoming European elections. The project seeks to strengthen European values and defend human rights. It also consolidates the efforts of institutions, civil society and the media to prevent racism, xenophobia and discrimination in the political campaign for the European elections.

The rationale for the project is based on the study "Hate Speech and Euroscepticism in Bulgaria" published by Multi Kulti Collective in 2022. It examines the links between hate speech, discrimination and racism and Euroscepticism (soft and hard). The document demonstrates that vulnerable groups such as Roma, migrants, refugees, people of colour are the most frequent targets of Eurosceptic political parties.

The project had three main activities:

• An outdoor photo exhibition in front of the National Theater in Sofia (30 April - 14 May 2024) will give a voice to Bulgarians and foreigners who oppose racism and send a message in support of human rights, democracy and diversity. These are both victims of racism and prominent figures from public life such as Instagram influencers, pop stars, prominent media figures, respected intellectuals, etc. The photographer of the exhibition is Krasimir Dimitrov. (UPDATE: The team managed to organize a second show for the exhibition. Thanks to cooperation with Sofia Municipality – Oboriste District, First English Language School and 112 Stoyan Zaimov School the exhibition was presented at the Pop-up Gallery on the Fence of the First English Language School and 112 Stoyan Zaimov School (60 Knyaz Aleksandar Dondukov Blvd., Sofia) between 22 May – 10 June 2024.)

• A communication campaign in 10 key media partners and social media, where the personal stories of the participants find a place.

• A community event to consolidate the efforts made by stakeholders from the institutions, civil society and media. 

The exhibition is proud to be carried out under the patronage of the European Parliament. 

The project addresses the European elections and encourages voting, but does NOT take political positions and does NOT call for support for specific parties.

News and Updates:

• Video on Deutsche Welle Bulgaria (10 June 2024)

• Photos from the community event Tea Ceremony Against Racism in the EU (4 June 2024)

• Facebook event for the community event Tea Ceremony Against Racism in the EU (4 June 2024)

• Article in Vagabond Magazine (28 May 2024)

• Photos from the second exhibition (22 May 2024) - the vernissage was cancelled last minute due to a storm 

• Facebook event for the exhibition at the Pop-up Gallery on the Fence of the First English Language School and 112 Stoyan Zaimov School (22 May – 10 June 2024)

• Presentation of the stories, Open Sofia (20 May 2024)

• Interview on Darik Radio (12 May 2024)

• Interview on the Bulgarian National Radio - Radio Sofia (8 May 2024)

• Vernissage photos from the first photo exhibition (30 April 2024)

• Photo exhibition - all photos

• Facebook event for the exhibition in front of the National Theatre (30 April - 14 May 2024)

• Interview on the Bulgarian National Radio - Programme Horizon (30 April 2024)

• Interview on the Bulgarian National Radio - Programme Hristo Botev (29 April 2024)

• Interview on Bulgarian National Radio - Radio Blagoebgrad (19 April 2024)

Time Frame: February - June 2024 
Partners: Sofia Municipality
Funding: European Network Against Racism ENAR
Patronage: The exhibition is carried out under the patronage of the European Parliament.