“We live in a time of great challenges, but also opportunities,” says Marek. “Our aim is to motivate people to actively participate in positive change in the region. We show that things can be changed for the better through engagement – and thus we contribute to fulfilling social responsibility.”
What KIRA is Doing for Trnava Region Today
KIRA focuses on four main areas:
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises – educational programs, newsletters, projects for micro-entrepreneurs.
Regional development – support for local initiatives, infrastructure, and community activities.
Technological and social innovations – projects such as SOS button or infoPOINTS information points.
Development of civil society and volunteering – activities aimed at public engagement and spreading good examples.
“We prepare each project with emphasis on the needs of the people it’s meant to serve. We want it to have a direct impact on the quality of life in the region,” adds Marek.
Local Innovation Plan – LIP
As part of the LIP project, KIRA focuses on creating a functional innovation ecosystem in Trnava Region. They collaborate with partners from all sectors – public, private, academic, and non-governmental. The goal? To coordinate activities, improve cooperation, and prepare a regional innovation strategy in five areas: talent, 21st-century industry, green and sustainable future, digital transformation, and mobility.
“We’re not just writing a nice document – we’re preparing a practical guide with specific measures that we then implement,” explains Marek.
Other priorities include a mobile lab, a multifunctional center for pupils, students, and the general public, and the university Campus at Nádvorie in Trnava, a year-long residential program with training, mentoring, and workshops.
Regional Challenges and how They Respond to Them
The biggest challenges? The outflow of talented people, the need for employee specialization, young people’s interest in technical fields, and connecting sectors of society.
“We respond to these challenges with specific projects, create opportunities for young people and professionals, and bring good practices from abroad. We want people in Trnava Region to see the sense in staying and realizing their potential here,“ says Marek.
Support for Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurs
KIRA supports entrepreneurship through:
- KIRA Academy – continuous education for entrepreneurs
- I Do Business in the Region – informational newsletter
- Business Buddy – support for micro-entrepreneurs
- Collaboration with Junior Achievement – developing students’ entrepreneurial skills
There are also plans for a new web portal with practical features for entrepreneurs, workshops, and conferences to support business and entrepreneurship.
“We have stability thanks to skilled people, long-term support from Trnava Region, and successful work with grants,” explains Marek. Digitalization of processes and examples of good practice from abroad allow for flexible responses to rapidly changing conditions.
How to Retain Talent in the Region
The key is perspective and opportunities for self-realization: internships, mentoring, projects, and events that connect the academic sector, public administration, and entrepreneurs. “If young people see a future at home, they will stay and contribute their talent to the development of the region,” adds Marek.
“We need to create an environment where young talented people will see a future at home – in regions and cities. Good jobs, quality education, fair conditions, and support for self-realization. By retaining talent at home and translating it into innovations, we can move Trnava Region and the whole country forward.”
TEXT: Natália Stašíková
PHOTO: KIRA
