HerbVenture - Green Hub for Young Entrepreneurs

<< Background >>The idea of The HerbVenture came to partners during attending the conference in Botevgrad - Path of the Herb. Discussions through the conference around the topic of natural medicine helped them identify common interests. The project idea was finalized after additional partners joined the initiative. The main reason for application was common challenges and needs of the community in all participating countries. Partners identified the increasing reliance and usage of different medications for minor health related concerns, a lot of time without any knowledge or awareness about the negative side effects. Additionally, misinformation and general lack of knowledge towards herbal medicine had contributed to the uncertainty and mistrust among the people. Moreover, consultations with specialists in the rural areas identified a concerning decline in sharing knowledge about herbs and their natural advantages. Most of the specialists expressed concern that their knowledge was getting less recognition and gradually becoming forgotten. Additionally, it was identified that young people showed almost no engagement, because of the lack of opportunities, as well as accessible, up to date and trustworthy educational materials. << Objectives >>By implementing the HerbVenture project the following objectives were sought to be achieved: promote youth participation and entrepreneurship in rural areas by empowering young people with the knowledge, skills and resources to create green enterprises focused on traditional medical herbs; Improve awareness and increase relevant knowledge about herbal medicine among young people; Promote environmental conservation and fight against climate change by raising awareness on sustainable herb harvesting, herb protection and their overall importance; Create up to date, accessible and relevant educational materials and tools, including a digital encyclopedia of herbs, an online platform with live data on herbs and climate and a handbook on traditional medicine literacy and conservation; Facilitate exchange of best practices as well as practical learning by organising workshops and international training activities. As a result, these objectives and goals aimed not only to improve direct knowledge of the target groups and offer entrepreneurial opportunities for young people, but also to create lasting change and improve local communities and the environment.<< Implementation >>The HerbVenture project carried out a well designed set of activities that included research, educational materials, practical experience and dissemination. The implementation phase started with field research, conducted in all participating countries. It was followed by developing its main tangible outputs: - The Digital Edition Encyclopaedia of Herbs, which includes properties, main characteristics, habitats and usage of medicinal herbs in the different regions of participating countries. - The online platform, where all the materials and activities are integrated along with interactive maps representing medical herb locations and climate data. - The Handbook on Traditional Medicine Literacy and Conservation, which equips young people to better evaluate information, identify credible sources of information and get a better understanding about conservation practices, traditional health and entrepreneurship. Additionally, local and online workshops and international training course was organised to foster knowledge exchange, improve practical skills of the target groups and develop entrepreneurial skills. Moreover, multiplier events promoted project results to a wider audience. << Results >>During the HerbVenture project several practical and valuable outputs were created to support its core priorities, it included: a Digital Edition Encyclopaedia of Herbs, an online platform with live data on herb distribution and conservation and a Handbook on Traditional Medicine Literacy and Conservation. All these materials are available online, offering evidence-based, relevant and practical knowledge to youth and all the interested individuals, ensuring expanding the reach and sustainability of the HerbVenture project. Additionally, a set of important activities were implemented. Field research and consultations with experts ensured that all the created materials were in accordance with local traditions and knowledge. Local and online workshops and international training provided enhanced knowledge and practical opportunities and supported continued learning process in the field of medical herbs. Furthermore, multiplier events spread project related data to the wider audience, which included: educators, health professionals, entrepreneurs and other local stakeholders along with raising public awareness and fostering cooperation across different sectors.