Partners

The Scientific and Research Association for Art, Cultural and Educational Programmes and Technology EPEKA, Social Enterprise, is a Slovenian non-profit organization founded in 2008 and based in Maribor. Originally established as an initiative to support the European Capital of Culture 2012, EPEKA quickly evolved into a key player in the promotion of EU values, intercultural dialogue, and social inclusion. In 2009, EPEKA initiated and helped secure Maribor’s title as the European Youth Capital 2013. Since then, it has grown into an internationally active network with branches in Austria, the Czech Republic, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Berlin, and Armenia, while also maintaining affiliate offices in Ljubljana and Izola. EPEKA operates as a social enterprise since 2013, combining community engagement with academic and policy-based work. Its long-standing focus on empowering vulnerable groups—particularly youth and the Roma minority—has led to the development of numerous innovative initiatives. One of its most recognized efforts is the Romani Kafenava, the first Roma restaurant in the EU built on social entrepreneurship principles, which continues to operate years after the conclusion of its European Social Fund (ESF) support. Other landmark projects include the establishment of the Roma Station, a multi-purpose community center, the EPEKA Youth Cooperative Society promoting youth entrepreneurship, and, most recently, the European Housing Cooperative EPEKA addressing youth housing challenges across Europe.

In the Roma Soul Food project, EPEKA contributes its extensive experience in Roma inclusion, cultural mediation, and social entrepreneurship. It leads the communication and dissemination strategy and coordinates the project's research and documentation activities. Drawing on its wide network, infrastructure, and field presence, EPEKA ensures that the project outcomes are both meaningful within Roma communities and visible to the broader public.