Follow Up: 10-th Annual Family Fun & Golf Day

On 27 September we held the 10-th Annual Family Fun & Golf Day. We’re greatful to all our sponsors, partners and participants who made this day memorable and a tremendous success!

You can find pictures from the event HERE.

We would like to thank our diamond sponsors Easy Pay/ Epay and BulStraight, our Automotive Partner Porsche Sofia Iztok, our gold sponsors – Raiffeisen Property Holding International, Baker TIlly, Stanimira Chocolate House / Eyes Open, and Harmony Group.

Throughout the day, the grown-ups were sipping on boutique wines by Georgievi Bros., ice cold beers from Zagorka, and the kids on refreshing vitamin water and juices from Devin. Their loyal support and partnership make such events possible. 

Guests also had the chance to take for a spin four Volkswagen models: Tayron, Tiguan, ID.7, and Taigo.

And last but not least we would like to thank our trusted partner and host Pravets Golf Club.

Our little guests enjoyed lots of fun activities, arts & crafts, and mini-golf. They also got to play with chocolate and decorate chocolate figures with Stanimira Chocolate House.

Snacks and delicious goods were provided by The Bakers Company.

The day ended with the exciting awarding ceremony of the golfers and our annual charity raffle. This year the raffle was in support of Hope and Homes for Children.

Last but not least, thanks to KINGLY, who provided us and our guests with great socks.

Shoutout to 3Frames and Roy Hill for capturing these moments.

Special thanks to all our generous members who provided exciting raffle prizes!

Thank you all for joining us! We look forward to seeing you next year!

Elevate your finance career with PwC’s Academy “Budgeting and Budgetary Control,” training, starting on 21st October. This impactful 3 half-day programme is designed to help participants develop expertise in essential areas such as forecasting, business acumen, financial modelling, and communication skills. Through interactive and practical sessions, participants will explore important topics, including: 

• Purposes of budgeting 
• Responsibility accounting 
• Setting financial goals 
• Budgeting process 
• Budget review and performance 
• Approaches and methods of budgeting 
• Alternative approaches to budgeting 

This programme is suitable for CFOs, finance business partners, management accountants, financial/cost controllers, planning and analysis specialists, internal auditors, and accountants. 

For further details and registration, please visit our website or contact us at bg_pwcacademy@pwc.com. 

Learn more: https://www.pwc.bg/en/pwc-academy/portfolio/accounting-and-finance/Budgeting-and-Budgetary-Control.html

Over a third of SMEs (35%) say they are actively using AI technology, up from 25% in 2024 – according to research by the British Chambers of Commerce, in partnership with Intuit, the global financial technology platform.  

The research, featured in a new report, also shows appetite for more progress among SMEs, with 24% of responding firms saying they plan to adopt AI in the future. Only 33% no report having no plans to use AI, down from 43% last year. 

Over 1,500 business leaders were surveyed online by the BCC’s Insights Unit during June and July. The BCC has been tracking SME use of AI for the last three years.  

Although AI adoption is rising across all business types, the data shows some deep sectoral disparities. Almost half (46%) of B2B service firms, those in sectors such as finance, law and marketing – are using AI. That compares to just 26% of B2C firms and manufacturers. Around 60% of responding firms say they are using AI for content creation and knowledge work. 

Despite higher AI use, many SMEs do not feel they are using the technology to its full potential. Just 11% of responding firms reported using technology to a ‘great extent’ to automate or streamline operations, while 42% say ‘to some extent’, 29% ‘to a minimal extent’, and 14% ‘not at all.  

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

“Our data shows more SMEs are plugging into AI – and that’s really encouraging news for the UK’s economic future.  

“The pace of technological change is speeding up, not slowing down, and it’s crucial that all businesses are part of the digital revolution. Our survey shows the picture is not equal across all sectors and firms aren’t yet using the technology to its full potential. 

“It’s crucial that the Government acts swiftly on the recommendations of the SME Digital Adoption Taskforce. Improving AI awareness, support and skills must be the focus.  

“Getting this right will help firms drive forward economic growth in an increasingly digital world.”  

Leigh Thomas, Intuit Vice-President Europe, Middle East and Africa: 

“We are seeing a decisive shift in recognition that AI is no longer a futuristic add-on, but a real-time lever for productivity and resilience. We’re moving beyond a world of disconnected systems and siloed data, to a place where every part of a business can be seamlessly connected.  

“However, the findings in this report reveal a widening divide between AI-ready firms and those struggling to keep pace. AI must become the lever SMEs pull to stay productive, unlocking financial clarity and agility.  

“With the right integrated tools at their fingertips, SMBs won’t just keep pace with the AI revolution – they’ll drive it.” 

Small Business Minister Blair McDougall MP said:  

“Often the discussion about AI focusses on huge multinationals, but this shows that the smaller businesses, who contribute so much to our economy, are a central part of the AI innovation story too. It’s great to see so many using technology to grow and create new opportunities” 

“AI transformation is a crucial part of our mission to kickstart economic growth. We will continue to back businesses through our Plan for Change to improve productivity, boost competitiveness and drive prosperity across the UK.” 

Read the full report here

We’re happy to share the success of the trade mission to Leeds the BBCC hosted for Bulgarian female entrepreneurs. The group represents some of the most dynamic and forward-thinking leaders in Bulgaria’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

Day one started with a morning discussion panel at Avenue HQ on the topics of female entrepreneurship, VC funding and influence. Special thanks to Savannah Bensley, Sharon Kaur Jandu OBE, Charlotte Scott, and Helen Gibson MBE for coming together and opening the trade mission with this incredible conversation.

Then, the delegation moved on to a fireside chat at Mills & Reeve, with a focus on the activities of Lifted Ventures, supporting female entrepreneurship in the UK. We are grateful for the insights shared by Jordan Dargue, Vanessa Walton, and Zandra Moore MBE.

The day finished with a fun and crowded networking event by FinTech North!

Day two:
Our partners, David Summerbell and Claire Clark, told us about the Barclays Eagle Lab programme, and the women’s entrepreneur group Claire has been leading.

Next BCC Executive Director Desislava Miteva had the pleasure of discussing female entrepreneurship in Bulgaria, and support for entrepreneurs in the Northern Powerhouse, with the amazing Charlotte Scott.

Day three:
The mission ends back in London, with a panel discussion with our dear partners at the British Chambers of Commerce.

Special thanks to the inspiring women that shared the journey:

Desislava Miteva, BBCC Executive Director
Genoveva Christova-Murray, Ligna Group
Ivelina Atanasova-Genchev, Newtrend Agency
Izabel Stolarska, Carrot Solutions
Kristiyana Gavrailova, Inverso.bg
Margarita Stoichkova, BULDE ltd.
Maria Sivkova, Conversion Century
Maya Milanova, Flow Logic

Now is the best time to secure your ticket for Business Agility Bulgaria 2025 before prices go up.
Until October 1, you can lock in today’s rate and add your BBCC members’ discount.

What you get in one day:

• Three curated Journeys matched to your role and interests,
• Sessions on AI, leadership, and transformation with speakers from Bulgaria and around the world
• Space for real conversations and new partnerships.
  

Extra value for attendees:
Your participation earns Scrum Education Units (SEUs) from Scrum Alliance. In addition, you can become a certified Business Agility Practitioner – another way to turn learning into recognised value.

Use your discount code and secure your seat today:
https://www.agileconference.bg/#tickets
Promo code: BBCC20

On 24 September, together with our partners from the CCI France Bulgarie, Confindustria Bulgaria, and Deloitte Bulgaria hosted the annual seminar From Policy to Practice: Update on Tax & Regulatory Changes for 2026.

Business leaders, tax professionals, and experts gathered at UniCredit Bulbank International Center in Sofia and explored the most pressing developments that will shape 2026:

• Global Minimum Tax – first submission is just around the corner
• Preparing for SAF-T implementation
• Navigating tax disputes during audits
• Employee incentive plans through shares/equity
• The euro adoption in Bulgaria

Practical insights, interactive discussions, and valuable networking made this event a true knowledge-sharing platform.

A big thank you to everyone who joined us, your active participation made the event a success. We look forward to continuing the conversation and supporting your business in navigating the regulatory landscape of 2026.

This winter, turn the traditional office party into an unforgettable Christmas experience. At the Rila Hotel, sparkle, comfort, and festive energy await you – the perfect combination for an evening that will bring your team together and create lasting memories.

What can you expect?

• Flexible spaces with capacity for corporate parties of all sizes
• Festive menus with tempting flavors from Bulgarian and international cuisine
• DJ, live music, and entertainment to keep everyone on the dance floor
• Special corporate accommodation rates

We’ll take care of all the details, while you enjoy a celebration that inspires, connects, and fills your team with holiday spirit for the year ahead.

Read more: https://www.rilaborovets.com/events

Hilton are offering two exciting ways to finish the week with a Greek Party on 26 September and a Farmer’s Brunch on 28 September!

Greek Party at Regale Bar & Terrace on 26 September

Even though summer’s not quite over, let’s give it a proper farewell with a Greek party! 

On September 26th at Regale Bar & Terrace, the DJ will spin fresh, Greek-inspired tunes. Sip on yummy cocktails, and party like summer’s just starting. 

Entry is free – just bring your best vibes! 

Make a reservation at Regale Bar & Terrace by calling: +359 2 933 5064 or via the link –https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/regale/greek-party-4610046593155072

Farmer’s Brunch at OXBO on 28 September

OXBO, Hilton Sofia
Sunday, September 28
Reservations: +359 2 933 5062
Price: 79 BGN/ 40.39 EUR per adult; 40 BGN/ 20.45 EUR per child up to 11 years old

Inspired by the land and the people who care for it, we’re bringing together the best from our favorite Bulgarian farms:

• Tender veal from Levka
• Flavorful cheeses from Kapra
• Pasture-raised delicacies from Troyane and Gorsko Rancho
• Fresh tastes from Dimmy’s Farm
• More than brunch – a true feast of flavor

This is not just a Sunday lunch – it’s a celebration of:

• Real food
• Artisanal craftsmanship
• Connection with nature

All of this – served with the finesse and quality you deserve.

What else awaits you?

• Artisan bazaar “Go to the Forest”
• Fun for the little ones
• A beautiful garden and cozy atmosphere

Book your spot here: https://www.sevenrooms.com/experiences/oxbosofia/farmers-brunch-4968609073217536\

PwC’s Academy is excited to announce the launch of the next edition of their Project Management Programmes. Whether you’re just starting out or have some experience, PwC’s training courses provide a great chance to improve your skills and earn recognised certifications in project management. 

Upcoming Courses at PwC’s Academy:

Project Management Fundamentals – (9 – 10 October 2025) 

This highly interactive and hands-on course offers a unique experience for juniors in project management. The course is designed to help participants build knowledge and skills, grow their confidence, and manage projects on their own. Participants will learn how to manage a successful project by discovering the tools needed to launch a project, manage all the project phases, develop risk strategies, meet the project goals and much more.

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) – (21 – 24 October 2025) 

Ideal for those at the beginning of their project management career. The CAPM provides recognition to practitioners who are new to project management, offering a clear understanding of the fundamental knowledge, terminology, and processes of effective project management.  

PRINCE2 Foundation – (27 – 29 October 2025) 

Dive into one of the most popular project management methodologies globally. PRINCE2 offers a structured approach that can be tailored to any project, ensuring efficient management and delivery. Perfect for those looking to solidify their understanding of process-driven project management. 

PMP Exam Preparation Course – (8 – 12 December 2025)  
Designed for those ready to pursue the gold standard in project management certification. This comprehensive prep course ensures you’re equipped to tackle the PMP exam and demonstrate your ability to manage projects efficiently, making you an asset to any organisation. 

Check the link below for more information about the upcoming programmes or contact PwC at bg_pwcacademy@pwc.com.  

https://www.pwc.bg/en/pwc-academy/portfolio/project-management.html

Reacting to the WTO’s publication of its World Trade Report for 2025, William Bain, BCC Head of Trade Policy, said: 

“This report is a call to action for business and policymakers worldwide to ensure we realise the full benefits of AI in boosting global trade, productivity and skills.  

“It identifies a possible AI premium for global economic growth of 12-13% and goods export growth of up to 37% by 2040. AI can boost exports by reducing red tape, speeding up journey times, and cutting customs delays. AI-services are also highly exportable, and can be a major source of growth, in an area where the UK is already a world leader. 

“But tariff and technical barriers to trade need to be dealt with to allow AI to realise these full gains. We also need to ensure that electronic transmission of services across the world remains tariff-free.  

“Investing in AI, and the skills and training to make use of it, are essential. It is also crucial that supportive supply chains and regulatory frameworks are put in place to promote AI-enabling industries. This includes sectors such as semiconductors, data and energy, only then can the potential set out in the World Trade Report become an economic reality.” 

The full WTO World Trade Report can be found here. 

Source: British Chambers of Commerce