WELFARE, INCLUSION, SUSTAINABILITY, SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP, TECHNOLOGY, EDUCATION, SKILLS OF THE FUTURE
European Development Foundation​

OUR STORY

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— past

The European Development Foundation (EDF) is a Bulgarian NGO that began its journey in 2011 with one simple belief learning can transform lives. What started as a small initiative in foreign language and soft-skills training quickly grew into a space where people connected, learned, and discovered new opportunities. In our early years, we built digital tools, supported educators, and explored how technology could open doors for learners of all ages. We collaborated with local communities, public institutions, and private organizations to shape ideas into real, meaningful projects. From classroom workshops to online platforms, our foundation was laid on curiosity, creativity, and a drive to make education more accessible for everyone. EDF has proudly coordinated initiatives and participated in 10+ projects, some of which co-funded by the European Union.
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— present

Today, EDF operates at the intersection of welfare, inclusion, sustainability, technology, and education, participating and leading international projects and creating programmes that strengthen communities and open new opportunities for learners of all ages.

We support vulnerable groups, people with disabilities and empower young people, and promote equal access to quality learning. Our work includes inclusive education initiatives, youth and community projects, digital and green skills development, and training in social entrepreneurship, helping people build the skills of the future, including the field of Artificial Intelligence and social entrepreneurship.

We also design technology-enhanced tools and platforms that make learning more engaging and accessible, while contributing to national welfare programmes and local social services.

With over 4,000 learners reached so far and a committed network of mentors and experts, EDF continues to grow as a space where innovation, learning, and social impact meet.

As one of the co-founding organizations of the Let Her In International Network, we continue to join forces with like-minded organisations across Europe to promote gender equality, leadership, and inclusive participation.
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— future

EDF is shaping a future where learning, inclusion, and innovation create real opportunities for every person. Our direction is clear: to empower young people, strengthen communities, and build environments where everyone can grow safely and confidently.
We will continue to:
  • strengthen youth initiatives that spark creativity, leadership, and active social engagement
  • develop inclusive learning content and environments that welcome diverse and underrepresented voices
  • make education accessible to all stakeholders, including people with disabilities;
  • expand our work in sustainability, green skills, and social entrepreneurship, preparing individuals for a changing world, also as entrepreneurs;
  • deepen international and cultural cooperation, connecting learners and organisations across borders;
  • support young people in navigating choices, careers, and personal development.
Our future is grounded in the same belief that started it all: innovative and inclusive education can transform lives; with empowered individuals we create stronger, more resilient societies.