GreenPath - Empowering SMEs and NGOs forEnvironmental Sustainability and Digital Transformation

<< Background >>We applied for the GreenPath project to address the urgent need for environmental sustainability and digital transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Europe, particularly in Greece, Poland, and Turkey. SMEs and NGOs play a vital role in economic growth and social development, yet many face challenges in adopting eco-friendly practices and integrating digital solutions due to limited resources, knowledge, and tools. Recognizing this gap, we designed GreenPath to empower these organizations by providing a user-friendly online platform where they can self-assess their environmental performance and digital readiness, access tailored resources, and implement sustainable improvements​.The project responds to the pressing need for action against climate change and the growing demand for green skills in the workforce. By promoting environmentally sustainable practices and enhancing digital literacy, we aim to help SMEs and NGOs reduce their environmental impact and become more resilient in an increasingly digital world​. Additionally, we identified a need for collaboration and knowledge exchange to scale impact and inspire innovation. << Objectives >>The GreenPath project aimed to promote environmental sustainability and support digital transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Greece, Poland, and Turkey. Our primary objective was to create a user-friendly online platform that allows these organizations to self-assess their environmental performance and digital readiness, identify areas for improvement, and access tailored resources to guide their transition towards more sustainable and digital practices. We sought to increase awareness about the importance of green skills and eco-friendly approaches, equipping SMEs and NGOs with practical tools to reduce their environmental impact and enhance their competitiveness through digital solutions. The project also aimed to strengthen collaboration among participating organizations, encouraging knowledge exchange and best practices to drive innovation and sustainable growth. Through GreenPath, we aspired to empower target groups by improving their capacity to implement sustainable practices and adopt digital technologies, enabling them to contribute to global environmental goals and advance their social missions. << Implementation >>We began with Project Initiation and Research, which included a virtual kick-off meeting to establish roles, communication protocols, and timelines. Partners collaborated to conduct research, identifying best practices in environmental sustainability and digital transformation through surveys, interviews, and case studies. This phase laid the foundation for the development of the online platform​.We continued to Platform Development and Content Creation, where BeKnown led the creation of a user-friendly platform featuring self-assessment questionnaires and customized recommendations. Educational resources, including good practice videos, were developed in collaboration with partners to provide SMEs and NGOs with practical tools and knowledge for improvement​.During Implementation and Impact Assessment the platform https://green-path.gr/was launched and promoted through social media campaigns, webinars, and direct outreach. Real-time user feedback were collected to monitor effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement​.Finally, Dissemination and Project Closure focused on sharing results through reports, infographics, and presentations, as well as organizing a closing meeting to review outcomes, evaluate impact, and discuss.<< Results >>The GreenPath project delivered several concrete outputs and impactful results that addressed the environmental and digital transformation needs of SMEs and NGOs. One of the key outputs was the creation of an interactive online platform https://green-path.gr/ designed to help organizations assess their environmental sustainability and digital readiness. This platform featured self-assessment questionnaires, customized recommendations, and access to tailored resources, enabling users to identify gaps and adopt effective solutions​. It reached 221 platform visits.We produced a series of educational resources, including good practice videos and guides on green skills and digital transformation, which supported capacity-building among SMEs and NGOs. These materials were widely distributed and promoted through the platform and social media campaigns, enhancing accessibility and engagement​. The project facilitated cross-border collaboration, strengthening partnerships among Greece, Poland, and Turkey. Through joint activities, participants exchanged knowledge and best practices, improving their capacity to tackle environmental challenges and implement digital tools​. Also the impact assessment showed increased awareness and readiness