Virtech is a co-founder of SofiaLab, officially known as the Sofia Urban Living Lab, is an open innovation ecosystem in Sofia, Bulgaria, dedicated to fostering urban innovation and local development. Established in collaboration with the Sofia Development Association (SDA), SofiaLab is a member of the European Network of Living Labs (ENoLL) since 2019.
The primary mission of SofiaLab is to engage a diverse range of stakeholders—including citizens, businesses, academia, and public institutions—in the co-creation of solutions that address urban challenges. By promoting active citizen participation, SofiaLab aims to make urban areas more responsive to the needs of their inhabitants.
SofiaLab serves as a hub for various activities such as hackathons, workshops, training sessions, and community events. These initiatives are designed to enhance digital, creative, and entrepreneurial skills among Sofia’s youth and broader community. The lab also provides a space for experimentation and prototyping, enabling the testing of innovative solutions in real-life urban settings.
Through its collaborative approach, SofiaLab contributes to the implementation of Sofia’s Smart Specialization Strategy and supports the city’s sustainable development goals. By integrating research and innovation processes with active public engagement, SofiaLab exemplifies a modern approach to urban governance and development.