Ivanec: A Benchmark for Smart and Sustainable Local Development

As one of Croatia’s most proactive and innovation-oriented local governments, the City of Ivanec has successfully completed the BFC SEE certification process for the fourth consecutive time, reaffirming its long-term commitment to creating a competitive business environment, supporting entrepreneurship, and driving sustainable local development.

The city has developed a diversified economy built on strong manufacturing traditions, including metal processing, footwear, wood processing, textiles, packaging production, and construction, while increasingly attracting investments in information technology, renewable energy, and high-tech industries. Despite broader demographic challenges affecting many parts of Croatia, Ivanec continues to record growth in employment, supported by close cooperation between the city administration, educational institutions, and the private sector to align workforce skills with labour market needs.

What particularly distinguishes Ivanec is its comprehensive support system for entrepreneurs. Through the Business Zone Management Company, Project Office, Business Club, startup incubator programs, and a fully digital Virtual Business Incubator (VIP Ivanec), entrepreneurs gain access to mentoring, education, networking opportunities, business resources, and expert support throughout every stage of business development. The VIP Ivanec platform, offering more than 20 digital services and functionalities, stands out as an example of good practice in digital entrepreneurship support.

Digital transformation has become one of the city’s strongest assets. Ivanec continuously modernizes administrative processes to improve efficiency and accessibility for businesses and citizens alike. Innovative solutions such as the SOM application for managing public calls and grants, as well as the “Open City” platform, strengthen transparency, citizen participation, and communication between the local administration and the community. These initiatives position Ivanec among the leading examples of smart local governance in the region.

At the same time, environmental sustainability remains firmly embedded in the city’s development agenda. Ivanec actively implements EU-funded projects focused on energy efficiency, environmental protection, and green innovation. A notable example is the innovative Barefoot Park project, developed in partnership with local company Ivančica d.d., which combines health, education, tourism, and environmental objectives while demonstrating the value of cooperation between the public and private sectors.

By successfully renewing its BFC SEE Certificate for the fourth time, Ivanec once again confirms its position among the region’s most business-friendly local governments. Its combination of strategic planning, digital innovation, investor support, environmental responsibility, and strong public-private cooperation continues to create a dynamic environment for sustainable economic growth and community development.