Organising a national information day was an opportunity to discuss how third places should consider sustainability, community development and youth empowerment with its social dimension.
On 22 June 2026, the Jordanian partner of MERAVIGLIA, the Jordan University of Science and Technology(JUST), hosted the MERAVIGLIA National Information Day and Advocacy Sessions in Amman, Jordan.
It brought together representatives from academia, government, municipalities, civil society organizations, entrepreneurship support institutions, and international development agencies to explore the role of Third Places in fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and community development in Jordan.
The event introduced participants to the MERAVIGLIA project and its vision for establishing a network of Third Places across the Mediterranean that support green entrepreneurship, local learning communities, and sustainable development. Beyond presenting the project’s objectives and activities, the event created a platform for dialogue through two advocacy sessions that brought together experts and practitioners from diverse sectors to discuss the opportunities, challenges, and support systems needed to develop impactful Third Places in Jordan.
The first advocacy session, “Building the Ecosystem: Policy, Skills & Support Systems for Entrepreneurial Third Places”, focused on how entrepreneurial ecosystems can better support youth-led innovation and green entrepreneurship.
One theme that emerged from the discussion was the long-term sustainability of entrepreneurial ventures. Speakers emphasized that supporting entrepreneurs should extend beyond helping them launch projects to helping them scale, adapt, and remain resilient over time. The discussion also highlighted the importance of building networks of entrepreneurial hubs and support organizations that work collaboratively rather than in isolation. Participants reflected on how stronger connections between institutions can create more opportunities for mentorship, partnerships, and knowledge exchange, while encouraging entrepreneurs to view collaboration as a pathway to growth rather than competition.
The speakers also stressed that entrepreneurial success should not depend solely on individual effort. Instead, thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems require interconnected support structures that allow entrepreneurs to access expertise, resources, markets, and peer networks throughout different stages of their entrepreneurial journeys. The conversation highlighted the need to strengthen cooperation among universities, incubators, accelerators, municipalities, and development organizations to create a more supportive environment for innovation and green entrepreneurship in Jordan.
The second advocacy session, “Designing Third Places for Communities and Youth”, focused on community development and youth empowerment.
The discussion highlighted that the value of Third Places extends beyond entrepreneurship alone. Speakers stressed the importance of developing soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-confidence. Even when entrepreneurial ventures do not succeed, these skills remain valuable outcomes that strengthen young people’s future opportunities and personal development.
Another key theme was inclusivity and accessibility. Participants discussed how Third Places should be designed to welcome people from diverse backgrounds and provide equitable access to resources, networks, and opportunities. Particular attention was given to the role of universities as hosts for Third Places and how they can become more open and connected to their surrounding communities.
Ideas included membership-based models that allow non-students, entrepreneurs, community members, and local organizations to access university facilities, programs, and innovation spaces.
The session also emphasized that effective support for entrepreneurs must go beyond technical and business assistance. Mentorship, peer networks, personal encouragement, and access to supportive communities were identified as equally important factors in helping young people navigate challenges, build confidence, and sustain their entrepreneurial journeys.
Participants highlighted the importance of creating spaces where individuals feel supported not only as entrepreneurs, but also as members of a community that values learning, experimentation, and personal growth.
Together, the discussions provided valuable insights into what makes Third Places successful, not only as spaces for innovation and entrepreneurship, but also as inclusive communities that foster collaboration, personal growth, and meaningful social connections.
Watch the session recordings:
Session 1: Building the Ecosystem: Policy, Skills & Support Systems for Entrepreneurial Third Places
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/181rPTdhqf/
Session 2: Designing Third Places for Communities and Youth
Last Update
06/07/2026
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