The annual conference of the Association for Innovation, Business Excellence, Services and Technology (AIBEST) took place in one of the fastest-developing cities in Bulgaria - Burgas, on 2 October 2020.
The most significant event for the knowledge industry in Bulgaria brought together the leaders of the high-tech sector for a strategic discussion about the factors and measures needed - at local and national level - to attract new investments and create a favourable business environment for a sector that, according to the latest data, accounts for 5.2% of GDP.
The event was attended by close to 200 representatives of the largest technology companies in Bulgaria, local authorities and institutions.
"This is one of the most prestigious forums in Bulgaria, and the fact that for the second time we host it in Burgas is significant enough. Over the years our partnership with AIBEST has grown into a real friendship, which led to the opening of the Vocational School for Computer Programming and Innovation in the city 2 years ago, the establishment of IT academies, and by the end of this month we expect another large company to open its office in Burgas."
"What we witness in our sector in recent years is 20% growth on an annual basis, and we expect it to continue this way. We would like more and more companies to expand beyond the capital of Sofia, because we believe this is the future of the industry in Bulgaria and will enable young people to develop in their hometowns. We are working on attracting not only Bulgarians but also foreigners in the sector of business services and IT."
Preliminary report: the Development of the Knowledge Economy
During the event, Ilia Krustev presented the preliminary data from the Association's report:
- The number of companies is growing by 5% annually - by 2019, 610 companies operated in the knowledge industry.
- Employment in the sector increased by nearly 8% compared to 2018. Wage costs reached EUR 1.463 billion - up 18.3% over the previous year. Insurance expenditures climbed to EUR 204.3 million, a 19.02% increase versus 2018.
- Companies in the sector generated EUR 2.87 billion in total operating revenues in 2019, marking an increase of 19.4% year-on-year.
- Contrary to expectations of decline, 54% of companies in the sector reported an increase in new projects and launched products. Demand grew for software and social media platforms, e-commerce, contactless payments, direct-to-user deliveries and other online services.
Technology Oscars: AIBEST awards 2020
At an official ceremony, AIBEST awarded the best companies and projects in Bulgaria's high-tech business field across nine categories.
Employer of the Year - SoftServe Bulgaria
The technology company has been offering modern technologies and solutions for customers for 27 years. The award was presented by the Mayor of Burgas, Dimitar Nikolov, who in return received a special award for best partner in creating the ecosystem for high-tech business.
Project of the Year & IT Company of 2020 - Experian Bulgaria
A global leader in information and analytical solutions for business clients and consumers. Experian Bulgaria employs over 1,000 specialists; its Sofia office is a strategic center performing operations from data analysis through product development to customer implementation. The company impressed the jury with its cloud-based Software-as-a-Service platform for credit solutions, which accelerates customers' access to the latest innovations with exceptional adaptability.
Innovation of the Year - BULPROS
Awarded for Power Teams 365, a digital solution that allows team members and customers to interact and access real-time information and processes - streamlining key processes and improving the use and allocation of resources.
Business Process Outsourcing Company 2020 - Sutherland Bulgaria
With four offices in Bulgaria - Sofia, Plovdiv, Burgas and Varna - and over 2,500 employees, Sutherland achieved great growth this past year, continuing to serve over 20 global brands and adding new services to its portfolio.
Corporate Social Responsibility - Telus International
The company revised its overall strategy in less than a month to help local communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Best Business Sustainability Strategy in Crisis - A Data Pro
The campaign emphasised a strategy in three areas: process automation and efficiency; ensuring continuity of services to customers; and maintaining sustainable motivation and commitment of employees.
Technology Business Building 2020 - Building 3, Garitage Park
AIBEST members recognised Building 3 in Garitage Park as the technology business building of the year.