Green Launchpad Kicks Off in Palestine to Boost Sustainable Businesses
The Green Forward Programme has officially commenced in Palestine with the launch of its "Green Launchpad" track, marked by an intensive workshop on Sustainable and Circular Business Models. This initiative, funded by the European Union and implemented by SPARK and Flow Accelerator, aims to empower Palestinian Business Support Organizations (BSOs) to spearhead the green economic transition.
High-Energy Workshop Launches Green Initiative
A full-day, high-energy workshop signaled the start of the Green Launchpad. Led by Dr. Khaled Hardan, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at Al Quds Open University, the session brought together five Palestinian BSOs. The focus was on equipping these organizations with the necessary tools, insights, and practical applications to champion sustainable and circular practices within the local business community.
Participants explored critical concepts such as the Triple Bottom Line and were guided through UNIDO’s Circular Economy Toolkit by a special guest, Dr. Said Dwikat, National Coordinator for Palestine at UNIDO. The workshop emphasized embedding green thinking into strategies for supporting Micro, Small, and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs).
Empowering BSOs for a Greener Palestine
The core objective of the Green Launchpad, and the broader Green Forward Programme, is to build the capacity of Palestinian BSOs. These organizations are seen as pivotal in driving the adoption of green business models, fostering innovation, and creating a more sustainable, connected, and resilient business ecosystem across Palestine.
About the Green Forward Programme
The Green Forward Programme is a significant initiative funded by the European Union. It is implemented in Palestine by SPARK, an international non-governmental organization focused on youth employment and entrepreneurship, and Flow Accelerator, a Palestinian organization dedicated to supporting startups and SMEs. The programme's overarching goal is to foster a green and circular economy not only in Palestine but also within the wider Southern Neighbourhood region.
About SPARK and Flow Accelerator
SPARK develops higher education and entrepreneurship to empower young, ambitious people to lead their conflict-affected societies into prosperity. SPARK provides opportunities for youth, particularly women and refugees, to study, work, and grow their own businesses.
Flow Accelerator is a key player in Palestine's entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing startups and SMEs with the resources, mentorship, and network needed to scale and succeed. They are committed to driving innovation and economic growth in Palestine.
Looking Ahead
The launch of the Green Launchpad track is a foundational step in a more extensive journey towards a greener Palestinian economy. By empowering BSOs, the Green Forward Programme aims to cultivate a new generation of MSMEs that prioritize sustainability, contributing to long-term environmental and economic resilience in the region.
Source: Flow Accelerator