Enterprise research

Introduction

Between April and June 2025, a research survey was carried out among local businesses in Pissouri to explore their level of cooperation with young people. The goal was to assess the current state of youth employment, training, and social involvement, and to identify opportunities for improved collaboration.

A total of 26 businesses responded to the survey. Most were microenterprises, primarily operating in the services sector, with some presence in trade, tourism, and manufacturing. The research addressed several key areas, including youth employment, barriers to engagement, skills in demand, and the role of local authorities in fostering cooperation.

The findings help paint a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities for youth integration into the local economy and society, while offering actionable insights for municipalities, educators, and youth organizations.

All the results of this research can be found in this file: 

Summary

The research revealed that while there is interest and willingness among Pissouri's businesses to engage with young people, there are several challenges and gaps that must be addressed:

Business Profile & Youth Employment

• Most businesses are micro-sized and focused on services.

• About half of the companies employ individuals under 26, mostly through permanent or part-time contracts.

• Structured pathways like internships, apprenticeships, or youth development programs are limited.

Youth Engagement & Social Activities

• Only a small number of businesses are actively involved in youth-related social activities.

• However, many express interest in future cooperation, especially if there is support, visibility, or incentives.

• Businesses suggested that tax relief, grants, and joint events would encourage deeper engagement.

Barriers to Involvement

• The most common barrier is the perceived lack of interest from youth.

• Other challenges include lack of funds, time, and information on existing youth initiatives.

• Some companies do not see youth collaboration as relevant to their operations.

Skills in Demand

• Businesses prioritize soft skills like teamwork, organization, responsibility, and communication.

• Fewer companies prioritize creativity, innovation, or advanced technical knowledge.

• There is a sense that local youth are not adequately prepared for the job market, highlighting a potential skills gap.

Perception of Youth Involvement

• Most businesses rate youth participation in local social and economic life as low to moderate.

• There is a need for more youth centers, internship opportunities, and mentorship programs.

Ideas for Better Youth-Business Cooperation

• Internships and training programs are seen as the most effective tools for mutual benefit.

• Businesses also recommend co-organized events, volunteering, and mentorship.

• A shift in mindset is needed—towards mutual respect and seeing youth as capable contributors rather than inexperienced liabilities.

Conclusion

This research shows that Pissouri's businesses recognize the value of youth involvement but need supportive structures, incentives, and better communication to act on it. There is a strong potential for enhancing youth integration into both the economic and social fabric of the community.

To unlock this potential, collaborative action is needed from local authorities, educational institutions, and youth organizations. Together, they can bridge gaps, raise awareness, and create opportunities that benefit both young people and local businesses in the long term.