The PATENT project’s training course in Vilnius, Lituania was a 10-day programme packed with activities. It combined theoretical learning with group work, practical tasks, and preparation for a migrant start-up business fair.
The course began with three days of online sessions, where participants were introduced to the project, the agenda, and practical details about their stay. One of the highlights was a guest lecture by Krunchas – a successful migrant-led business based in Lithuania.
During the in-person part of the training in Vilnius, participants visited several migrant-run businesses for study visits, including Petra Bakery, Narmin, Helen, Gogi Guy, and others. These visits provided valuable insights into the entrepreneurial journeys of migrants living in Lithuania.
Participants also attended lectures delivered by experts from organisations such as the Lithuanian Red Cross, Caritas, the Refugee Council, and the State Patent Bureau of Lithuania. These sessions covered important topics related to legal rights, business registration, support services, and intellectual property.
A key part of the training was group work focused on preparing for the final event – the Migrant Business Fair. Participants were responsible for engaging with migrant entrepreneurs, inviting local residents, promoting the fair, and helping with logistics and coordination on the day of the event.
The highlight of the week was the Migrant Business Fair, held at Lukiškės Prison 2.0 in Vilnius. More than 20 migrant entrepreneurs showcased and sold their products and services. The event attracted approximately 200 visitors and gave participants a first-hand opportunity to see what it takes to run a business as a migrant in a new country.
This training course was a unique combination of learning, experience-sharing, and active involvement – helping young people gain the skills and confidence to take their first steps into entrepreneurship.
