Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_CDI/SUPP T 01
We are informing you that on 24.06.2026, the organization Community Development Institute is opening the procurement for the supply of a rental vehicle, reference number BOS2404_CDI/SUPP T 01, within the project “EMPOWERED – INCLUSION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDS), REGIONAL COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE WESTERN BALKANS”, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Germany (BMZ). All interested bidders may send a request on the company’s memo to request the tender documentation to the e-mail info@cdi.mk. The deadline for submitting offers is July 24th, 2026, at 12:00 hours.
New equipment for more accessible services and greater support for persons with disabilities
Another important step towards creating more accessible and inclusive communities has been made through the delivery of equipment to institutions and organisations that provide support to persons with disabilities. The Health Centre received a gynaecological examination chair adapted for persons with limited mobility, a hydraulic lift, and a three-panel privacy screen, improving the conditions for delivering healthcare services and ensuring better support for beneficiaries. At the “11 October” School, a medical practice room has been established to help familiarise children with developmental disabilities with medical examinations through an adapted and supportive approach, making healthcare environments less intimidating. The Association of Persons with Muscular Dystrophy received a hydraulic lift for the safe transfer of persons with limited mobility onto a massage table, making this service accessible to a larger number of beneficiaries. By strengthening the capacities of local institutions and organisations, this support helps remove barriers faced by persons with disabilities and contributes to more equal access to services, support, and opportunities for a better quality of life. The equipment was provided through the EMPOWERED project, which promotes the inclusion of persons with disabilities and supports the development of accessible and inclusive communities across the Western Balkans. The equipment was provided through the EMPOWERED project, implemented in Serbia by IDC – Initiative for development and cooperation with the support of the City of Leskovac, as part of a wider regional initiative led by ASB South East Europe. By supporting local institutions and organisations, the project helps create more accessible and inclusive communities for persons with disabilities throughout the Western Balkans.
EMPOWERED: A year and a half of working together for a more inclusive Western Balkans
Since the launch of the EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans project, partners from six Western Balkan countries have been working together to create societies where persons with disabilities have greater opportunities for participation, employment, and an improved quality of life. Over the first year and a half of implementation, significant results have been achieved, demonstrating the importance of regional cooperation, dialogue, and joint action in advancing the inclusion of persons with disabilities. As part of the project, regional and trilateral conferences brought together representatives of institutions, civil society organizations, and the private sector from across the region. A Regional Working Group on the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities was also established, connecting experts, organizations, and decision-makers with the aim of improving policies and practices related to disability inclusion. At the local level, 15 local working groups were established, 10 local inclusion plans were developed, and 27 local inclusion projects were prepared. To ensure that the needs and perspectives of persons with disabilities are reflected in decision-making processes, more than 130 interviews, nearly 40 focus groups, and over 25 public consultations were conducted. Direct support for persons with disabilities and their families was provided through more than 200 psychosocial workshops and over 620 hours of career counselling. At the same time, vocational training, skills development, and employment support programmes created new opportunities for beneficiaries to strengthen their competencies and improve their access to the labour market. Advocacy and public awareness-raising activities have also been a key component of the project. Through campaigns, media outreach, and visibility activities, messages promoting inclusion have reached more than 600,000 people across the region. These achievements demonstrate that sustainable change is possible when institutions, civil society organizations, local communities, and persons with disabilities work together. EMPOWERED continues to build the foundations for a society where equal opportunities, active participation, and inclusion are accessible to all. The project is supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and is implemented by ASB South East Europe, IDC Serbia, LIR CD, Alfa Centar Nikšić, CDI Macedonia, PREDA Plus Foundation, and the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF).
Cancellation Notice of LOT 1 (Medical Neurofeedback Device) within the tender ref. no.: BOS2404_IDC/SUPP T 03
We inform you that on 16.06.2026. the organization Initiative for Development and Cooperation cancels the tender procedure for LOT 1: Medical Neurofeedback Device, within the tender reference number BOS2404_IDC/SUPP T 03, project “EMPOWERED – INCLUSION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDS), REGIONAL COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE WESTERN BALKANS”, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Co-operation and Development, Germany (BMZ), due to the fact that no offer was received for this lot.
Certificates awarded to 20 participants following successful completion of vocational training
As part of the EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans project, a certificate award ceremony was held for 20 participants who successfully completed a vocational training programme designed for persons with disabilities. The training was implemented by LIR CD, the project partner in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the aim of enhancing participants’ knowledge, developing practical skills, and strengthening competencies that support greater inclusion in the labour market and community life. Throughout the programme, participants had the opportunity to acquire new knowledge and develop skills tailored to their individual abilities and needs. Through a combination of theoretical and practical learning, they were empowered to recognize their potential, build self-confidence, and take important steps towards greater independence. In addition to strengthening professional competencies, the programme contributed to the social inclusion of participants by providing opportunities for learning, interaction, and experience-sharing in a supportive and inclusive environment. The certificate award ceremony was an opportunity to recognize the commitment and achievements of all participants, while also highlighting the importance of investing in education, empowerment, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Through the EMPOWERED project, we continue to promote inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities, believing that knowledge, skills, and support are essential for the full participation of persons with disabilities in the social and economic life of their communities. 💙
SOLIS project of ASB and IDC presented in Pirot: New support for families and stronger social services in Serbia
Improving social protection systems and creating stronger support for persons with disabilities and their families remains one of the key priorities of sustainable community development. The SOLIS project – “Sustainable Social Protection: Support to Social Services in Local Communities in Serbia” – was officially presented in Pirot as a new initiative aimed at strengthening social services and improving the quality of life for persons with disabilities and their families in several municipalities across Serbia. The project is implemented by ASB South East Europe and IDC – Initiative for Development and Cooperation, with the support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Over the next 35 months, SOLIS will focus on improving local social protection mechanisms, developing sustainable community-based services, and strengthening cooperation between institutions, local governments, and civil society organizations. One of the most significant activities within the project will be the establishment of a “Respite Care” facility in Temska, near Pirot. This service will provide temporary accommodation and professional support for children with developmental disabilities and their families, offering parents and caregivers much-needed assistance and relief in everyday life. The facility will represent an important new form of support within the local social protection system and will contribute to improving the wellbeing of both children and their families. In addition to developing new services, the SOLIS project will also work on strengthening local capacities and improving cooperation among relevant stakeholders in order to ensure long-term, sustainable support for vulnerable groups. Through joint efforts and coordinated action, the project aims to create more inclusive communities where persons with disabilities and their families have better access to rights, services, and opportunities. The presentation in Pirot gathered representatives of institutions, organizations, and local authorities, highlighting the importance of partnership and shared responsibility in building stronger and more accessible social services. SOLIS represents another important example of how cooperation between local communities, civil society organizations, and international partners can lead to concrete and meaningful changes for people who need support the most. The launch of the SOLIS project marks an important step toward creating services that directly respond to the everyday challenges faced by persons with disabilities and their families. By investing in community-based support, professional care, and stronger local cooperation, the project aims to provide practical and long-term solutions that will improve quality of life and strengthen social inclusion in local communities across Serbia.
Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_IDC/SUPP T 03
TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF MEDICAL EQUIPMENT FOR SUPPORT TO LOCAL COMMUNITY WITHIN LOCAL INCLUSION PROJECTS FOR PwDs/ CITY OF LESKOVAC We are informing you that on 21.04.2026. the organization Initiative for Development and Cooperation is opening the procurement for the supply of medical equipment for support to local community within local inclusion projects for PwDs/ city of Leskovac, reference number BOS2404_IDC/SUPP T 03, within the project “EMPOWERED – INCLUSION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDS), REGIONAL COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE WESTERN BALKANS”, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Co-operation and Development, Germany (BMZ). All interested bidders may send a request on company’s memo to request the tender documentation to the e-mail procurement@idcserbia.org. The deadline for submitting offers is May 21st, 2026. at 12:00 hours.
Visit to Association “Srce” – A good practice in community-based services development
As part of the EMPOWERED study visit in Croatia, one of the key activities was a visit to Association “Srce” in Sveti Ivan Zelina – an organization that has long been recognized as a strong example of developing support services for persons with disabilities within the local community. Association “Srce” was founded in 2005 on the initiative of parents of children with developmental difficulties, with the aim of providing more accessible and higher-quality support. Today, the organization delivers a wide range of services that contribute to strengthening independence, social inclusion, and the overall quality of life of its beneficiaries. A particular focus is placed on the development of community-based services, including individual and group support, as well as various therapeutic and educational programs. Through these activities, beneficiaries are enabled to actively participate in society, develop skills, and gain access to education and employment opportunities. One of the most important segments of the Association’s work is supported living, which enables persons with disabilities to live in the community with appropriate support, while developing independence and improving their quality of life. In addition, significant attention is given to work integration through cooperation with local employers. Persons with disabilities are involved in work activities in real working environments, with continuous support from mentors and professional staff, further enhancing their employability and social inclusion. What particularly distinguishes this model is strong cooperation with the local community, institutions, and the private sector, as well as continuous investment in the development of new services and the improvement of existing support models. The visit to Association “Srce” provided participants with valuable insights into practical support models that can be adapted and implemented in other contexts, including the Western Balkans.
Employment without barriers in Leskovac – open dialogue and concrete steps forward
The open dialogue “Employment Without Barriers” was held in Leskovac within the EMPOWERED project, bringing together representatives of institutions, civil society organisations, and the private sector with a shared goal – improving the position of persons with disabilities in the labour market. Through an open and constructive discussion, participants exchanged experiences and identified key challenges, as well as concrete opportunities for improving employment and strengthening cooperation between stakeholders at both local and national levels. 💬 Activities within the project are already ongoing in Leskovac, including:✔ implementation of local inclusive plans✔ career counselling✔ psychosocial support✔ strengthening capacities of local organisations 🎯 During the event, a public call for the vocational training and labour integration programme for persons with disabilities was also presented. The programme includes:✔ qualification and requalification trainings✔ on-the-job practice✔ support for labour market inclusion 👥 A total of 60 beneficiaries will be supported (Leskovac, Novi Pazar, Dimitrovgrad). 📅 The public call is open until 30 April 2026, and applications are submitted at the City Administration of Leskovac. 🌐 More information: https://empowered-wb.org/2026/04/01/idc-open-call-for-participation-in-the-vocational-training-and-labour-inclusion-programme-for-persons-with-disabilities/ The event was organised by Initiative for development and cooperation (IDC) and Forum of Youth with Disabilities FMI, with the support of Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund and the City of Leskovac, within a project funded by German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development BMZ.
IDC – Open call for participation in the vocational training and labour inclusion programme for persons with disabilities
Within the project EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans, project partner Initiative for developmenat and cooperation (IDC) has launched public calls for the selection of beneficiaries in three cities in Serbia: Leskovac, Novi Pazar, and Dimitrovgrad. The call is intended for persons with disabilities who wish to improve their skills, acquire new knowledge, and increase their opportunities for employment through a vocational training and labour inclusion programme. The programme includes: A total of 60 beneficiaries will be selected (20 per city). 📅 Application deadline: 1 April – 30 April 2026 📍 Application process: 📄 The application form and detailed information about the call are available through the channels listed above. We invite all interested applicants to apply and take an important step towards greater independence, employment, and active participation in society. Please download the application documentation for the public call: