The programme is designed for young people (aged 18–29) who have practical skills or education in handicrafts, textiles, or design but lack business knowledge and are interested in turning their ideas into a business.
Participants learn about entrepreneurship, the circular economy, sustainable design, and self-management. Online workshops are followed by Q&A sessions where participants can review their homework and seek guidance from mentors. The programme starts with a kick-off event in Estonia and a closing event in Finland.
Each group has 24 participants – 12 from Estonia and 12 from Finland.
Registration to the first cycle is open! Programme is free for participants. Register here!
Schedule for the first cycle
16.02.2026 Application deadline
20.02.2026 Participants selection and announcement
04.-07.03.2026 Kick-off event in Tartu, in Estonia
• Entrepreneurship and business model
•Design thinking and storytelling
10.03.2026 Online workshop: sustainable practices and circular economy
12.03.2026 Online Q&A session: sustainable practices and circular economy
16.03.2026 Pre-recorded session: markering strategies and branding
19.03.2026 Online Q&A session: marketing startegies and branding
24.03.2026 Online workshop: using AI and digital tools in marketing
26.03.2026 Online Q&A session: using digital tools in marketing
30.03.2026 Pre-recorded session:financial management and pricing
07.04.2026 Online Q&A session: financial management and pricing
14.04.2026 Online workshop: ESG, EU regulations, consumer rights. Legal and ethical aspects.
16.04.2026 Online Q&A session:ESG, EU regulations, consumer rights. Legal and ethical aspects
20.04.2026 Pre-recorded session: mental health and self management
23.04.2026 Online Q&A session: mental health and self management
10.-12.05.2026 Kick-out event in Mikkeli, in Finland
• Pitching and public speaking
NB!
• Online workshops at 16:00-17:30
• Online Q&A sessions at 16:00-16:45
Register here!
Expected results
• 96 young people will participate in the training programme, with at least 80 completing it to the required extent
• Participants will gain hands-on experience and support in developing their business ideas in the fashion and textile sectors, as well as expand their professional networks
Total budget: €840,220
Duration: 31 months, 01.06.2025 – 31.12.2027
Lead partner: Foundation Tartu Centre for Creative Industries (Estonia)
Partners: Mikkeli Development Miksei Ltd (Finland), South Savo Vocational College (Finland)
Contact
Project Manager Maret Ahonen
maret@lmk.ee