The WeBuySocialEU project organises a series of trainings across Europe to encourage contracting authorities to integrate social considerations in their purchasing policies and practice, and to support social economy enterprises in understanding and participating effectively in public procurement procedures. During its training in Portugal, the catering was provided by social economy organisation CRESCER, highlighting how the social economy can be applied in practice.

CRESCER has been founded in 2001 as a community intervention association dedicated to promoting inclusion for highly vulnerable and socially excluded groups. It operates several restaurants in Lisbon, in addition to managing a catering service. Its operations provide employment opportunities for its beneficiaries, and help them develop practical skills. The catering team at the WeBuySocialEU training event included individuals who, having experienced exclusion and homelessness, are now receiving training and gaining valuable professional experience.

During the event, participants were positively surprised by the high quality food and service and were only told during the final coffee break that CRESCER was responsible for the catering. The organisation had ensured that all menu requests were met and provided an almost fully vegetarian menu, adhering to sustainable practices. This is in line with CRESCER's economic model, which aims to contribution to the association's sustainability and its ability to expand its network of beneficiaries. Moreover, CRESCER's restaurants and catering services distribute surplus food and leftovers to its beneficiaries, further supporting the community.