Ten years ago, successful Slovenian entrepreneurs decided to unite in a common effort to improve the entrepreneurial environment in Slovenia. This gave birth to the Slovenian Business Club (SBC), which today brings together 450 companies and their members. Under the leadership of President Joc Pečečnik and Vice Presidents Igor Akrapovič (Akrapovič) and Jure Knez (Dewesoft), the club has become a significant pillar of the Slovenian economy. Among the founding members is Tanja Skaza, co-owner of Skaza and director of the Skaza Institute. In a conversation with her, we learned more about the club's beginnings, its current role, and its future.
In the picture Tanja Skaza and Joc Pečečnik
How do you remember the period ten years ago when successful entrepreneurs united in a common effort to improve the entrepreneurial environment in Slovenia? What was crucial for you to join or connect as founders?
"Uroš Slak excellently presented the vision of SBC. Soon, as founders and members, we connected with like-minded entrepreneurs who share similar values, a passion for entrepreneurship, and a desire to innovate and develop the Slovenian economy. Through networking, exchanging practices, and empowering each other, we strengthened our knowledge and the development of our companies. This collaboration has enabled us to build a more innovative and sustainable future for Slovenian entrepreneurship," explains Tanja Skaza.
How do you view the role and importance of SBC in Slovenia today?
"Change is the only constant in life, and like-minded people are particularly aware of this," says Skaza. She emphasizes that SBC is crucial for the growth and development of the entrepreneurial environment in Slovenia. "Our dedication to growth, strengthening employee engagement, expanding into foreign markets, and enhancing brand awareness plays a key role in our operations. Within SBC, we strive to share this mission while providing support and motivation to each other, and we also promote the mindset in our country that entrepreneurship is essential for the prosperity of the entire society."
Where do you see the club and its role in the next five years?
"SBC will continue to positively impact the entire country, especially in fostering a positive outlook on the benefits that entrepreneurs bring to the country, and this mindset about the invaluable role of our companies' creativity will extend to employees, as everyone is the creator of their own happiness. I hope that our entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and dedication will also inspire public institutions and state-owned enterprises. We believe that such collaborations can contribute to spreading a positive attitude towards entrepreneurship and creativity, thereby enhancing the well-being of the whole society."
Current Activities and Achievements of SBC
In 2023, SBC organized several events and workshops aimed at educating and connecting entrepreneurs. One of the most notable events was the conference "The Entrepreneurial Future of Slovenia," where renowned domestic and international experts discussed future trends and challenges. SBC also actively participated in initiatives to reduce bureaucratic obstacles for companies and improve the legislative environment for business in Slovenia. Additionally, the club launched a mentorship program for young entrepreneurs, helping them take their first steps in the business world.
The story of SBC and its founders, like Tanja Skaza, highlights the importance of collaboration and the exchange of experiences among entrepreneurs. Skaza believes that the key to success lies in connecting like-minded people who want to contribute to the development of entrepreneurship and thus to a better future for all. Core values such as innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility remain at the forefront of SBC's activities, which will continue to contribute to the development of the Slovenian economy in the future.