BUM: effective help for SMEs is the communication support we provide!

What services does BUM provide to support entrepreneurs?

Besides our core mission of building community and fostering collaboration, we aim to articulate why it's good to live in these thematic neighborhoods, what makes them special, and showcase the people who shape the atmosphere of a street or district. These are the entrepreneurs: the baker, the jeweler, the gallery owner - each representing a unique story that we’re eager to share. This, in turn, is a great support for entrepreneurs, as we provide them with valuable communication support using the tools of marketing communication.

We create content for them that they are free to use themselves. Our team produces photo and video materials featuring them, which appear in the form of interviews on our blog, and as videos on our YouTube channel and Facebook page. We offer them a variety of online platforms to increase their visibility: we showcase and promote their businesses, events, programs, and news on our website (which receives 100,000 unique visitors per year) and our Facebook page (with more than 50,000 followers), as well as on our Instagram and LinkedIn profiles. If they face challenges in their own communication processes, we are happy to assist them with communication consulting as well.

What other tools do you use to promote these thematic areas?

Our thematic map - popular with tourists and available at various locations throughout the city - has been published in over 1.5 million copies to date. It highlights streets using the advantages of a traditional tourist map. In 2024, the map was reissued in a new pocket-book format (currently available online), complete with a map insert. This change increases its volume, usability, and advertising space.

We also compiled the most important sights and interesting features of the respective streets, offering tips for spending time in these areas.

Are there services aimed at residents who want to get to know these areas?

Through some of our events and campaigns, we “bring people into the streets” and connect them with local businesses. One such example is our thematic urban walks, which, like traditional historical tours, introduce the history, architecture, and cultural heritage of an area. However, our walks focus on businesses as well, showcasing both traditional and innovative local enterprises. In October and November, our Autumn Thematic Walks series allows participants to discover two streets every two weeks.

Another tool that encourages engagement is our most successful communication campaign: the SlowXmas event series, which we organize together with the streets. It has already been recognized with four Diamond Awards by the marketing industry. For a full month, we invite people to enjoy unique experiences in the participating streets and quarters, encouraging them to slow down and recharge during Advent. The campaign’s media appearances and promotional materials also serve to promote each participating business.

Are there events where entrepreneurs can meet each other?

We currently have 18 partner areas (streets/neighborhoods), and this number is continuously growing. In addition to well-known thematic areas in the capital, many new entrepreneurial communities are forming, often based on location or shared activities. We reach out to them and offer our support. We maintain active relationships with each area, regularly surveying the streets and monitoring developments.

We work to connect entrepreneurs from different areas, build networks, and create a community that supports each other. To this end, we strive to provide shared platforms and events. One example is our cozy Entrepreneur Breakfasts, where entrepreneurs can meet and connect more easily than around a formal meeting table. These events are not only about exchanging ideas and brainstorming but have also led to many fruitful business collaborations.