Estonia’s Forces of Innovation

Let it be better (Saagu Parem) helps to create a better society mainly through the charitable sale of donated items and re-donating to those in need. The centre, located in a former medical institution, was a great support for Ukrainians who fled to Estonia, as well as sending necessary items, medicines, etc. directly to the crisis areas in Ukraine.

Ritico, a social family business mainly focusing on footwear, manufactures its products based on sustainability, environmental friendliness and the circular economy in such a way as to make maximum use of the surpluses of its own company's main products as well as those of other companies. The footwear consists of as few different materials as possible.

Võrumaa Development Centre together with Võrumaa Municipality Union and other partners have implemented five social hackathons called Vunki Mano!. More than 60 innovative ideas related to different subject areas have been generated in co-creation, and at least half of the ideas have been implemented. Creative workshops, or community hackathons, are a form of co-creation, resulting in a common view of community problems and their innovative solutions.

Väike Werrone School is an excellent example of parents of the community in Võrumaa joining the forces, focussing on the needs, using the resources available and creating opportunities. First, they started a Waldorf Kindergarten and then a school to provide their children with a complete learning and growth environment.

Through the Kupland network, it is possible to find suitable places for remote work, especially for employees with a computer in Võrumaa,Põlvamaa and Valgamaa. There are places to be alone, to find new contacts, for a team event or for long-term remote work. During the meeting, the Kodas and Mooste Manor locations and their remote working options were introduced. Kodas location is perfect for creative types that appreciate picturesque nature and peaceful ambience. While they are mostly focussed on hosting individuals and teams, Mooste Manor on the other hand is suitable also for families and bigger events for up to 600 people.

The Repair Cellar (Paranduskelder) with its activities and people is an NGO funded yearly by the municipality of Tartu that promotes and supports systems of a circularity based world. Their focus lies on repairing and reusing items and recycling waste. The centre of the activity is an open workshop in Tartu, where you can get advice and acquire skills to repair various things.

With that many social innovative initiatives and passionate engaged actors, we are convinced that Estonia is on a great track to strengthen its social innovation ecosystem.

The study visit took place from October 3 to 4, 2022. The photos were taken by Evelyn Valtin, Tea Jänes and Fie Neo.