A Step Forward – Youth Academy for Financial and Digital Literacy
A Step Forward – Youth Academy for Financial and Digital Literacy
co-funded by Erasmus+ Programme, KA154-YOU – Youth Participation Activities
Project duration:
Start date: 29 May 2025
End date: 28 May 2026
Total duration: 12 months
Activity type: KA154-YOU – Youth participation activities (without mobilities)
The project “A Step Forward – Youth Academy for Financial and Digital Literacy” is an initiative aimed at empowering young people from sparsely populated areas and Roma backgrounds—groups that are often left behind in traditional educational and economic development systems. Funded under the Erasmus+ programme (KA154-YOU), the project seeks to equip youth with practical knowledge and essential skills that will help them take control of their future through financial independence, digital competence, and entrepreneurship.
►► Partner Organisations
- Coordinator: “Ti Mozhesh Li” Association (Sofia, BG)
- Project Partners:
- Institute for Cultural Heritage (Zlatitsa) – Expertise in youth policy, social inclusion, and digital literacy
- New Opportunities Association (Elin Pelin) – Experience in working with Roma youth, digital education, and social engagement
►► Key Objectives
The project aims to:
- Enhance financial literacy among young people through training in personal finance and the development of sustainable business ideas
- Build entrepreneurial skills necessary for starting and managing a small business
- Improve digital literacy, focusing on content creation, social media management, and visual communication
- Promote ethical and socially responsible practices in professional and digital environments
- Support the social inclusion and empowerment of youth from disadvantaged backgrounds
►► Target Group
- Young people aged 15–25, specifically:
- Residents of sparsely populated areas
- Roma youth
- Individuals with limited access to education and development opportunities
►► Core Activities
1. In-person training on personal finance and entrepreneurship
Participants will learn:
- Fundamentals of budgeting and saving
- Introduction to investment strategies
- How to create and present a business plan
- Through interactive workshops with coaches and financial experts
2. Online Academy for Digital Literacy
Comprising four virtual training modules, accessible to all participants:
- Module 1: Ethical creation of digital content
- Module 2: Social media as a tool for business success
- Module 3: Promoting personal initiatives through digital channels
- Module 4: Creating visual content and brand identity
3. Business Plan Development
Participants will receive mentorship and individual guidance to develop their own business plans.
4. “Project Festival”
Participants will present their business plans to local entrepreneurs and professionals, receiving valuable feedback and visibility.
►► Expected Results
- Acquisition of practical skills in finance, digital tools, and entrepreneurship
- Development of real business ideas and plans
- Increased motivation and confidence to participate actively in community life
- Improved employment prospects, autonomy, and readiness for self-employment
The “A Step Forward” project is more than just an academy—it is a pathway to confidence, independence, and opportunity. Through the power of knowledge, mentorship, and active participation, young people are not just learning—they are preparing to shape their own futures.
