Our Story
SINOVA has been dedicated to education, inclusion, and rural development since 2021, providing support to youth and adults with fewer opportunities.
SINOVA is a non-profit association based in Bansko, Bulgaria, bringing together educators, trainers, and professionals committed to education, inclusion, and innovation in rural areas.
Our mission is to empower adults and young people through non-formal education, training courses, and community initiatives, creating opportunities for lifelong learning, employability, and active participation in society.
Through local action and European cooperation, SINOVA contributes to the development of inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking communities, with a strong focus on rural and underserved areas.
The Journey of SINOVA: Growth, Partnerships, and Impact
2021 — The Beginning
SINOVA started as an informal initiative bringing together motivated young people and experienced professionals who shared a common goal: improving access to education and opportunities in rural areas.
From the very beginning, the team included university and school educators, youth workers, trainers, hospitality professionals, managers, IT experts, and other specialists, all contributing voluntarily their expertise and knowledge.
2022 — First Local Initiatives
During 2022, the initiative focused on local training sessions and workshops designed to support youth and adults with fewer opportunities.
These early activities addressed digital skills, entrepreneurship, and employability, while also establishing the first partnerships with local institutions and community stakeholders.
2023 — International Connections and Mobility Experience
In 2023, SINOVA began building international partnerships with organisations from Croatia, Spain, Belgium, France, Turkey, Portugal, Serbia, and North Macedonia.
The team actively participated in Erasmus+ Youth Exchanges and Youth Worker Mobilities, gaining valuable experience in international cooperation, non-formal education, and youth work practices.
2024 — International Development and Entrepreneurial Experience
In 2024, founder Stefan Knezhevich participated in the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs programme.
This experience strengthened the organisation’s capacity in management, international training methodologies, and sustainable organisational development, laying the groundwork for a more structured and strategic international engagement.
June 10, 2025 — Official Registration of SINOVA
On June 10, 2025, the organisation was officially registered as:
SINOVA – Association for Education, Inclusion, New Skills, Opportunities, and Activity in Rural Areas
Official registration enabled SINOVA to act as a coordinator and partner in Erasmus+ projects, significantly expanding its activities at both national and international levels.
2025 — Active International Participation and Growth
Throughout 2025, SINOVA strengthened its role in international cooperation, actively participating in Erasmus+ projects, partnerships, and mobility activities, while continuing to develop local educational initiatives.
2026 — Internationalisation, Inclusion, and Accreditation
In 2026, SINOVA focuses on:
- strengthening internationalisation strategies,
- expanding inclusive local and international activities, and
- implementing high-quality learning initiatives as an Erasmus+ accredited organisation in Adult Education (KA120-ADU).
ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE
SINOVA is led by a small core team supported by experienced educators and external experts.
The association combines strategic leadership, project management, adult education expertise, and inclusion-focused professionals to deliver high-quality learning activities for adults and young people.
