Credissimo: 18 Years of Financial Innovation

Last week Credissimo celebrated their 18th anniversary. Beginning as a local Bulgarian startup, Credissimo has grown into an international leader in the fintech sector, expanding operations across multiple foreign markets.
Over the past two decades, Credissimo has transformed the landscape of digital lending. They have served over half a million clients, pioneered the use of cutting-edge AI and machine learning technologies in financial services, and built a diverse, multinational team of fintech experts. Their journey exemplifies the spirit of innovation and perseverance in the financial industry.
Credissimo’s commitment to providing fast, convenient, and accessible financial solutions has been unwavering. As they enter a new chapter in our development, they are even more committed to growth and meeting the dynamic needs of the customers.

We are delighted to invite you to apply for the prestigious position of BBBA Ambassador in the UK. This role offers a unique opportunity to represent the British Bulgarian Business Association (BBBA) and support our mission to foster a vibrant and connected business community within the UK.

Criteria for Application:

• Membership Tenure: Applicants must have been a BBBA member for at least two years.
• Residency Requirement: Applicants must spend at least 50% of their time in the UK.
• Event Participation: Applicants must be willing to represent BBBA at a minimum of 10 events in the UK per year.
• Reporting: Applicants must be committed to reporting back to the BBBA Board on their activities and insights.

Selection Process: The BBBA Board will review all applications and conduct interviews with shortlisted candidates. This will be an excellent opportunity for you to showcase your dedication, experience, and vision for the role.

How to Apply: Please submit your application, including a cover letter and CV , outlining how you meet the criteria and why you are interested in becoming a BBBA Ambassador. Applications should be sent to office@bbba.bg by 30 September.

We look forward to receiving your application and potentially welcoming you as a key representative of BBBA in the UK.

We would like to invite all member companies to extend nominations for the BBBA Board of Directors. Elections will take place at the Annual General Meeting of the British Bulgarian Business Association.

Note that there will be 2 vacancies for the BBBA Board of Directors. Thus if you are willing to commit to work actively for the development of BBBA, we encourage you to put yourself forward for elections by sending us your CV and Cover Letter at office@bbba.bg by 10 September. You will also have the opportunity to present yourself in front of BBBA members at the Annual General Meeting. 

Harmony Residence fulfils the dream of the modern city man for a cosy home and high quality of life in a beautiful environment.

The close proximity of Harmony Residence to The Mall on Tsarigradko Shosse Blvd., the quick access within 5 minutes by car to the city center, Sofia Airport and the direct connection to the Trakia highway make it incomparable with its ideal location in the dynamics of the city. In addition, Sofia Municipality plans to build a metro station next to the building.

Harmony Residence is also attractive as an investment due to its proximity to Arena Armeec, Sofia Tech Park and a number of other office buildings in this fast-growing area.

Harmony Residence develops the tendencies of our company to apply world achievements and attractive ideas in the interior.A central role in the unique interior of the large-scale entrance spaces is occupied by a breath-taking atrium on two floors.A library and a fascinating corner with a fireplace will bring warmth and happiness in the moments of rest after a long stressful day.

Harmony Residence consists of 240 apartments with a wonderful panoramic view of the higher floors and cosy gardens to the ground floor apartments for a truly green lifestyle.
In order to make everything for our clients as easy as possible, we also offer the option of “turnkey” completion. For this purpose, we have developed two design packages to cover their expectations and capabilities.

Beautifully landscaped alleys, exotic greenery, outdoor sports areas are just part of our ambition to build a green oasis of harmony in the heart of Harmony Residence.
“Healthy mind in a healthy body” is a current slogan in the modern world. Health care motivates us to create a sports centre in the building, which our customers can use freely.
Harmony Group is proud of its uncompromising quality of construction, combining exceptional materials with energy-saving solutions and environmentally friendly technologies for unique luxury and comfort.

The elevators are smart, fast and with a large capacity. As a benchmark for style and quality, they implement the latest developments in this field.
The security of our customers is important to us. We have created a package of measures including video surveillance, automated access control, motion sensors. In this way we guarantee a protected and calm living environment.

Choose your home at Harmony Residence and give yourself a life full of happiness, enjoyment and priceless moments.

You could check information about our project here.

The summer of three-room apartments
Price per square meter: 1750 euros including VAT
Harmony Residence – Sofia
Last 8 three-room apartments at the incredible price of 175,000 euros including VAT!
Reserve your viewing today!

View all available apartments here.

📞 +359 896 001 707 – Andon
📞+ 359 899 001 701 – Stefan

https://harmonygroup.bg/kontakti/

The majority of SMEs are still not using artificial intelligence, despite a growing acceptance by businesses that it will help boost productivity.  

Research carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce Insights Unit in partnership with specialist recruiter Pertemps Network Group, shows: 

• 43% of firms have no plans to use AI technology 
• 25% of businesses are currently using AI 
• Customer facing businesses (B2C) are even less likely to adopt AI , with 50% stating they have no plans to use this technology  
• 42% of companies say they believe AI will increase their productivity overall, while almost none (2%) expect it to cause a decrease 

The BCC research found overall, 43% of respondents had no plans to use AI at all, 25% said they were currently using a specific AI technology, while 8% were not sure if they were, and 24% planned to in future. 

There are significant sectoral differences. The new data shows that B2B companies are most likely to be currently using AI (33%). Meanwhile, manufacturing firms are the sector least likely to be using AI technology (19%) – with nearly half of manufacturers (49%) also saying they have no plans to adopt the technology, while just 24% intend to use it in the future.  

The findings are part of the landmark BCC/Pertemps Employment Trends Report 2024 which examines major trends impacting the labour market, including changing skills needs and increasing occupational health requirements. The report also found: 

• Only 11% of responding businesses feel their current training arrangements are allowing them to meet their future skills needs. 
• Four in ten (39%) say they have seen an increase in the use of occupational health by employees.  

Carmen Watson, Pertemps Network Group Chair, said:  

“AI has the potential to significantly benefit many industries but, as our research with the BCC shows, there is still a nervousness about its applications. 

“One of the areas it can help is addressing skills shortages. Our research shows that many businesses do not feel there are measures in place to address the current shortages and ensure they have a talent pipeline for the future. Only by working together, collaborating across all sectors and disciplines, and embracing new technology, can we tackle this. 

“AI will play a crucial role. It can help free-up time for experienced professionals who, freed from some of the more mundane and process-driven tasks on their to-do lists, can spend time upskilling themselves and, also, mentoring those younger professionals coming through. 

“It remains vital that all employers look at their offering to workers, ensuring there are able to access additional services and support, so that once you have attracted the right talent, the work environment you are offering is inclusive and supportive.” 

Shevaun Haviland, Director General of the British Chambers of Commerce said:  

“AI technology is fast becoming a key part of the business landscape. It will have a huge impact on employment trends going forward. 

“Our data is a stark reminder of the challenge ahead to get all firms equipped for the digital future.  

“It’s encouraging to see 25% of businesses are now using AI – that’s progress from our survey this time last year. But nearly half of firms still don’t have plans to use the technology. 

“Without direct action by the Government to help SMEs – many firms risk being left behind. Businesses need advice and support to make the digital steps forward.  

“That support on AI will also help firms feel more confident in their future skills planning. The pace of technological change is speeding up, not slowing down. It’s vital that all businesses are given the opportunities to embrace AI”.  

Read the full report here

Is your organisation ready with adequate measures to ensure a high level of cybersecurity and operational resilience? According to the new EU directive on Network and Information Systems (NIS2), a significant portion of the private and public sectors must implement mandatory measures for managing and analysing cybersecurity risks by October 18, 2024.

For more information in Bulgarian click here.

Bulgarian-Romanian Chamber of Commerce are excited to introduce the STAGE Financial Grant Programme, an initiative designed to support SMEs in their sustainability transformation. By sharing this information with your partners and member companies, you can help them secure funding, enhance their sustainability efforts, and drive growth.

Unlock Funding and Sustainable Growth for Your Members

What They Offer:

The STAGE Financial Grant Programme provides up to EUR 25,000 per selected SME to facilitate their transition to economic, social, and environmental sustainability. This funding covers essential activities, including:

• Preparation of an investment project plan
• Feasibility studies
• Technology audits
• Due diligence analyses
• Carbon footprint assessment
• Business process adaptation
• Specialized consultancy and coaching services

Eligibility:

BRCC’s programme is open to Industrial SMEs within the European Union or Horizon Europe – associated countries. In order to participate they need to register on the STAGE Platform, complete the initial assessment, match with a STAGE advisor form a vast list of European Experts, and visit the Applications section to submit their proposal.

Why This Matters to Your Members

Comprehensive Support: Beyond funding, we help companies become investment-ready, providing assessment tools, training, advisory services, financial plan development, and support in attracting private funding.

Exclusive Benefits: All services must be provided to SMEs by Sustainability Advisors registered on the STAGE Platform, ensuring high-quality, specialized support for each company.

First Cut-Off Date: The first cut-off date for applications is 30 September 2024, giving your members ample time to prepare and apply.

For more information, please visit their website or contact them directly at info@stagepartners.eu. Together, we can drive sustainable growth across Europe’s SME sector.

Kings’ Valley turns summer vacation into an adventure.

This summer Kings’ Valley Medical & Spa Hotel welcomes you with a rich summer program and themed weeks! Keep your summer vacation filled with countless activities for the whole family and benefit from an exclusive 15% discount on the price.

Relax and soak up the sun around the mineral pools, take a culinary journey to Asia, Italy, Greece and Spain with our themed weeks or embark on adventure and fun with our rich summer programme.

We are waiting for you for an unforgettable summer in the Rose Valley!

Learn more and book now here.

Join the fun, engaging and educational day camps and see how learning comes to life with British Council!

British Council’s new teaching centre will open on 1 August 2024 in Business Park Sofia. Before the start of the academic year 24-25 the teaching centre team have prepared a series of day camps for young learners, as well as free demo sessions for adults and professionals on 5,6 and 7 August. 

To find out more and register your child for day camp, please fill in the form here.

To find out more and register for the adult sessions, please fill in the form here.

The collaborative research conducted by Manpower Bulgaria and Assert International Bulgaria on Salaries, Additional Benefits, and Bonuses – Trends (SATR H2/2024), which provides a summary analysis of trends and expectations for remuneration levels, is now available. For the purpose of the study, we surveyed 212 companies from different sectors in the country to understand their views on changes in remuneration and benefits and how external factors influence these processes.

The analysis provides a detailed picture of the current and planned changes in the second half of the year.
The main challenges employers face include employee retention and competition for remuneration, but trends indicate a sustainable and balanced approach to resource management.

You can find out more about the changes that have occurred and those planned in the full report here.