The call for applications of the GBD workshop was launched on 21 January by the Birzeit University with the aim to reach potential green entrepreneurs, with a special focus on youth and women. 117 applications (of which 50 women) were received and 71 pre-selected to participate in the training programme. The business ideas presented by the Gazan entrepreneurs address critical environmental issues such as waste recycling, organic farming, replacement of chemical fertilizers with ecological ones, hydroponics, environment-friendly fishing, and the manufacturing of ecological products such as natural animal feed

The workshop is made of 5 online sessions over 5 weeks to assist green entrepreneurs from Gaza to develop their business models, and therefore their products and services. The online modality was chosen by applicants that were consulted on that topic when they applied. The workshops are being carried out by 2 local trainers and 2 green business advisors from the Birzeit University. It is based on the methodology developed by SCP/RAC to guide green entrepreneurs, from defining their idea to the commercialization of their products and/or services. This methodology consists in a set of materials available on TheSwitchers.org platform.

This activity gave the Switcher Support National Partnership of Palestine the opportunity to establish new alliances and create synergies with business organizations in Gaza such as the University College of Applied Sciences (UCAS), which is involved in the ENI CBC Med Helios programme. Within the framework of this new collaboration, the Birzeit University and UCAS aim to further disseminate their respective programmes in the country in order to increase the networking opportunities for potential entrepreneurs and start-ups, to build capacities and exchange experiences and best practices.