On 15 May 2026, the Social Impact Hub of Košice Region, supported by PEDAL, held its first Capacity-building / User-Innovation Workshop in Nezabudka Library in Košice. The workshop brought together young people with disabilities, researchers, students, and other stakeholders to discuss local challenges and explore practical solutions for greater social inclusion.

The workshop focused on identifying needs, generating ideas, and exploring opportunities for community-driven innovation. Participants discussed several topics affecting young people with disabilities, including employment, mobility, accessibility of services, AI education and digital skills, socialisation, and support for small community initiatives.

A particularly inspiring moment came when two young participants presented their own idea for a small-scale project focused on social inclusion and digital smart solutions. The proposal immediately sparked discussion among participants, who collaboratively explored its potential impacts, implementation options, and possible funding opportunities. Researchers, students, and other attendees actively contributed suggestions, demonstrating the value of co-creation and participatory innovation.