Introduction:
The future of the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) in Europe is bright, driven by the passion and innovation of young people. However, to fully unleash this potential, it’s crucial to address the challenges they face, particularly the digital skills gap and the need for stronger intercultural collaboration. That’s where DigiCreate comes in! This exciting new Erasmus+ project has officially launched, embarking on a 36-month mission to empower young creatives across Europe and the Western Balkans.
The DigiCreate Vision:
DigiCreate envisions a vibrant CCI sector where young people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive. To achieve this, the project focuses on two core pillars:
- Bridging the Digital Skills Gap: In today’s digital age, creative talent must be coupled with strong digital competencies. DigiCreate will provide young people (aged 18-30) with the essential digital skills needed to succeed in the CCI sector. This includes everything from digital marketing and online promotion to utilizing cutting-edge creative tools.
- Promoting Intercultural Dialogue: Creativity transcends borders, and DigiCreate recognizes the power of intercultural exchange to spark innovation and build a more connected creative community. The project will facilitate dialogue and collaboration between young people from diverse cultural backgrounds, promoting understanding, respect, and shared learning.
Key Project Activities and Outputs:
DigiCreate is structured around six interconnected work packages, each contributing to the project’s overarching goals. Some of the key activities and outputs include:
- Developing the DigiCreate Methodological Framework: This framework will provide a structured approach for educators and organizations to implement effective virtual exchange programs focused on digital skills and intercultural dialogue.
- Creating the DigiCreate Online Creative Hive Open Digital Toolbox: This toolbox will be a comprehensive online resource, offering a wide array of digital tools, learning materials, and networking features tailored to the needs of young creatives.
- Launching the DigiCreate Online Platform: This platform will serve as a central hub for learning, collaboration, and networking, connecting young people, mentors, educators, and industry professionals.
- Delivering the DigiCreate Online Course: A dedicated online course will provide in-depth training on digital marketing and promotion strategies, empowering young creatives to effectively showcase their work and reach wider audiences.
- Organizing Virtual Exchange Conferences: Three virtual exchange conferences will bring together young people from across Europe and the Western Balkans to collaborate on creative projects, share knowledge, and build lasting connections.
- Providing Youthpass Certificates: Recognizing the achievements of participants, DigiCreate will award Youthpass certificates to at least 2,500 young people, validating their newly acquired skills and intercultural competencies.
Addressing the Needs of Young Creatives:
DigiCreate is designed to directly address the key challenges faced by young people in the CCI sector:
- Accessibility: The project prioritizes providing access to high-quality education and opportunities, regardless of geographical location or socio-economic background. Virtual exchanges and online tools will break down barriers to participation.
- Skills Gap: By focusing on digital skills development, DigiCreate will equip young people with the competencies demanded by the modern CCI sector, enhancing their employability and career prospects.
- Financial Constraints: Free-of-charge educational tools and resources will alleviate the financial burden on young creatives, making opportunities more equitable.
- Industry Connections: Mentoring programs and networking opportunities will foster connections between young people and experienced professionals, providing valuable guidance and support.
The DigiCreate Consortium:
The DigiCreate project is made possible by the collaboration of a diverse and experienced consortium of 8 partner organizations:
- Youth Power Germany EV (YP-DE) (Germany)
- Evolutionary Archetypes Consulting SL (EAC) (Spain)
- Cooperativa Para O Desenvolvimento E Coesão Social, CRL (Contextos) (Portugal)
- Univerzitet Union Nikola Tesla (UniTesla) (Serbia)
- Udruzenje Okret (SPIN) (Bosnia and Herzegovina)
- Nevladina Organizacija GLAS (NVO GLAS) (Montenegro)
- Javna Ustanova Univerzitet Crne Gore Podgorica (UoM) (Montenegro)
- Fakultet Za Poslovnu Ekonomiju I Pravo Bar (FPM-UniBar) (Montenegro)
This partnership brings together expertise in youth work, education, technology, cultural management, and project implementation, ensuring the project’s success and long-term impact.
Join the DigiCreate Journey!
DigiCreate has the potential to transform the landscape of the CCI sector, empowering a new generation of creative talent. We invite you to follow our journey, learn more about our resources, and explore opportunities to get involved. Stay tuned for updates on our website and social media channels!
