Economic Opportunities for the LGBTI Community

The Economic Opportunities for the LGBTI Community project aims to improve access to quality employment, professional development, and economic independence for LGBTI people in Bulgaria, with a particular focus on transgender, intersex, non-binary, and other individuals in vulnerable social situations. The initiative is implemented by the Bilitis Resource Center Foundation in partnership with the GLAS Foundation Bulgaria, combining their expertise in community support, career counselling, employer engagement, and advocacy for inclusive workplaces.

The project was developed in response to the persistent discrimination faced by LGBTI people in the labour market, the limited opportunities for professional development, and the growing social challenges affecting LGBTI communities in Bulgaria. It is based on the understanding that economic independence is a key factor for social inclusion and full participation in society. By combining individualized support, employer engagement, and the development of sustainable partnerships, the project establishes a model for the long-term empowerment of the LGBTI community while promoting inclusive workplace practices.

The project’s primary objective is to increase employment and career development opportunities for LGBTI people by strengthening practical skills, providing career counselling, psychological support, and creating sustainable connections between job seekers and inclusive employers.

To achieve this objective, the project includes a mentorship programme involving trained career counsellors and external LGBTI mentors, the development of individual career plans, soft skills training, psychological support, and peer support groups. The project will also organize four career fairs, ten business networking meetings with employers, community markets showcasing LGBTI entrepreneurs and artists, and annual awards recognizing employers that demonstrate good practices in diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI).

In addition, the project will build on existing resources, including the WorkItOut platform, inclusive recruitment guidelines, and employer resource materials, to ensure the sustainability and long-term impact of its results.

The project is expected to support 80 participants through individual mentorship and career development activities, with at least 50% securing employment, continuing their education, or starting their own businesses. In the long term, the initiative will contribute to a more inclusive labour market, stronger partnerships between civil society and the business sector, and improved economic opportunities for LGBTI people in Bulgaria.