Ecosystem Radar

French-Bulgarian Chamber Celebrates Innovation at 5th Annual Awards

The French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry held its 5th Innovation Awards, recognizing standout companies and leaders for innovation, social impact, and sustainable business practices.

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ORIGINAL ARTICLE

April 05, 2024

French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Holds 5th Edition of Its Innovation Awards

by Desislava Toncheva

Read coverage on БТА

“The Innovation Awards spotlight the ingenuity and resilience of companies that are shaping the future of business and society in Bulgaria."

– French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Article Summary

On April 4, the French-Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) hosted the 5th edition of its prestigious Innovation Awards in collaboration with Sofia Municipality. The annual competition celebrates excellence in innovation, sustainable practices, and social impact among companies and individuals in Bulgaria.

Key winners included:

  • Eldrive Bulgaria – Innovative Idea Award for its leadership in electric mobility.
  • Melexis – Innovative Project Award for its contributions to technological advancement.
  • Capto – Innovative Start-up Award, showcasing strong potential in digital transformation.
  • Odaya Home – Corporate and Social Responsibility Award for preserving cultural traditions in a modern context.
  • Peter Roebben, CEO of UBB and KBC Group’s Country Manager – Business Personality Award for his role in the Raiffeisenbank merger and digital assistant development.
  • AIoT Cloud – Innovative Urban Solutions Award, for smart management software enhancing urban services.

A special jury prize was awarded to Proxiad, with Capto and Melexis also shortlisted, recognizing progress, innovation, and societal impact.

Official guests included Joel Meyer, French Ambassador to Bulgaria, Milena Stoycheva, outgoing Innovation Minister, and Mila Nenova, Executive Director of the Bulgarian Investment Agency. The evening also featured a panel discussion on enterprise and municipal innovation, moderated by Konstantin Valkov of Darik Radio.

All laureates receive a year of free FBCCI membership and dedicated mentoring, strengthening their future development and integration into the broader French-Bulgarian business ecosystem.

Key Highlights

  • Eldrive Bulgaria wins for Innovative Idea in electric mobility.
  • Capto awarded as most promising Innovative Start-up.
  • Melexis recognized for its high-impact Innovative Project.
  • Odaya Home honored for social responsibility and cultural preservation.
  • Proxiad receives special jury award for innovation and societal progress.

Takeaway

The FBCCI Innovation Awards serve as a vital platform to recognize forward-thinking companies and leaders driving innovation in Bulgaria. By rewarding impactful ideas and socially responsible practices, the event elevates the role of innovation in economic and societal progress.

For startups, corporates, and institutions alike, these awards foster collaboration, encourage sustainable growth, and strengthen ties between Bulgarian and French business communities. Recognition by a binational chamber underscores the importance of cross-border innovation in today’s interconnected economy.

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