SICOM

Empowering communities through social innovation and collaboration

The Social Impact Community Manager (SICoM) is a European project co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme, focused on strengthening local communities through inclusive, sustainable and socially driven development.

The project responds to the growing need for professionals who can support community-led change by introducing a new professional profile: the Social Impact Community Manager. This role is designed to activate local innovation ecosystems, engage diverse stakeholders and foster participatory approaches that address real societal challenges.

Implemented across five EU countries - the Netherlands, Italy, Cyprus, Greece and Bulgaria - SICoM develops an innovative and transferable three-level training curriculum (basic, specialised and localised). The curriculum is grounded in participatory consultations, ensuring that it reflects real community needs and existing skills gaps.

Through research, training and pilot implementation, SICoM equips professionals with the competencies needed to manage social impact initiatives effectively. Key outcomes include a comparative competencies report, the design of a novel training programme and the training of 60 professionals across partner countries, contributing to stronger, more resilient local communities.

The main goal of SICoM is to foster a European community of change-makers capable of driving systemic, community-centred solutions. By promoting collaboration, social innovation and long-term impact, the project supports the diffusion of sustainable development practices across Europe.