Building Effective Networks through Improved Individual Performance is a regional project focused on strengthening the cultural and creative sector in North Macedonia and Kosovo. Through trainings, networking, and digital tools, the project supported artists, cultural organisations, youth associations, and cultural workers, especially those from smaller cities, rural areas, and underrepresented communities.
The project started with a mapping process that connected institutions, organisations, artists, and youth groups from both countries. Special focus was given to smaller organisations and those in rural areas. Meetings were organised with ministries, municipalities, universities, cultural associations, and youth organisations to identify the main challenges facing the sector and create a network of future project beneficiaries.
Based on this research, a Training Needs Assessment was conducted with cultural professionals and organisations to better understand which skills were most needed beyond their artistic work. The results helped shape a practical training programme focused on personal development, communication, branding, marketing, project management, and business skills.
The project delivered three training cycles and five workshops in North Macedonia and Kosovo. Participants gained knowledge in areas such as teamwork, promotion, social media management, budgeting, product development, and advocacy. One of the highlights was a regional workshop in Mavrovo, which brought together participants from both countries to work on project ideas, exchange experiences, and build new partnerships.
The programme also included inspiring case studies from successful cultural initiatives such as DokuFest, showing how local cultural projects can grow into internationally recognised platforms that contribute to social and economic development.
To ensure long-term impact, the project launched an online Learning Management System (LMS) that will continue providing access to training materials, networking opportunities, and tailored learning content for artists and cultural organisations in the future.
By connecting people, improving skills, and encouraging regional cooperation, the project contributed to a stronger, more inclusive, and better connected cultural sector in North Macedonia and Kosovo.
Implementing partners: MyCareer (North Macedonia), HITHI (Kosovo).
Building Effective Networks through Improved Individual Performance project was supported by the British Council through the “Culture and Creativity for the Western Balkans” project, funded by the European Union. CC4WBs aims to foster dialogue in the Western Balkans by enhancing the cultural and creative sectors for increased socio-economic impact.