The Scientific and Research Association EPEKA, Social Enterprise was founded in 2008. EPEKA was established as an initiative to connect creators of cultural, artistic, educational, scientific, and technological content for the European Capital of Culture 2012 project.
A year later, EPEKA proposed that the Municipality of Maribor submit a candidacy for the European Youth Capital title. As a result, Maribor was awarded the title for 2013. We have continued our activities in EU citizenship, values, and intercultural dialogue ever since.
EPEKA has expanded internationally, establishing branches in the Czech Republic, Austria, Serbia, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Berlin, Montenegro, and Kosovo, as well as an informal youth group in Armenia. In Slovenia, we maintain affiliate branches in Ljubljana and Izola.
We have a long-standing history of working with underprivileged social groups—both youth and adults—promoting the rights of the Roma minority and empowering them. One of our most notable achievements is the establishment of Romani Kafenava, the first Roma restaurant in the EU operating on the principles of social entrepreneurship. Originally launched as part of a European Social Fund (ESF) project, the restaurant remains operational and has been recognized as a best practice by institutions such as the Council of Europe.
We are a non-governmental, non-profit organization and have operated by the principles of social entrepreneurship since 2013. Our mission is tied to advocating for the rights of vulnerable groups, especially youth and women. We combine theoretical approaches—such as creating tools, monitoring policies, and providing counseling—with direct community work. In 2016, we founded the EPEKA Youth Cooperative Society, and in 2017, we established Roma Station, a multi-purpose Roma center. In 2023, we also launched the European Housing Cooperative EPEKA.

Our Main Fields of Work

Youth
Each year, we are involved in over 20 Erasmus+ and Europe for Citizens projects. Currently, we lead two Erasmus+ KA2 projects: European Youth Against Anti-Gypsyism and Integration for Deeper Social Inclusion. We also run national ESF projects aimed at supporting people with fewer opportunities.
In 2018, we opened a modern Youth Center (300 m²) for educational activities focused on youth with fewer opportunities.

Social Entrepreneurship
We emphasize the inclusion of vulnerable groups. Our initiative Romani Kafenava serves as a model of responsible entrepreneurship. Through our Social Activation project and ESF-funded programs, we support long-term unemployed individuals and those from disadvantaged backgrounds by strengthening skills and employability.

Housing Cooperatives
We develop housing cooperatives to support youth facing the housing crisis, aiming for affordable, community-based housing that fosters independence and stability.

Ecology
We promote sustainable practices and green entrepreneurship, and we participate in environmental projects focused on biodiversity, climate action, and education for sustainability.

Art
We run a gallery showcasing Slovenian and international artists, especially those from underprivileged groups. We also organize concerts and artistic events that foster intercultural values.