In 2025, the program continues to support local communities by providing grants totaling 750,000 RON for 100 projects focused on educational and social development, non-formal education, social inclusion, and skill development for the future.

Pepco employees play an essential role in the success of Pepcolandia, actively engaging in communities and contributing passionately to each edition of the program. Whether they propose initiatives, directly participate in NGO activities as volunteers, or are involved in the judging process, Pepco teams consistently commit to local communities.

"Pepcolandia is an internal social responsibility program, born out of the passion and dedication of Pepco employees for the benefit of local communities. Over the years of implementation, we have strengthened our relationship with local NGOs and remained close to their needs. In this context, we are launching the fifth edition of the Pepcolandia program, reaffirming our commitment to supporting non-formal education and the personal development of children and young people in Romania during the summer vacation. In 2025, we are offering 100 grants that enable NGOs to continue their social mission, contributing to the well-being of beneficiaries and local communities", stated Raluca Popescu, Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist, Pepco.

Applications and evaluations

Project Application Period: March 6 – March 20, 2025

NGOs are encouraged to review the program regulations and, after verifying eligibility conditions, apply according to the following schedule:

Stage I: Letters of Intent

  • March 6 - 20, 2025: NGOs can submit their Letter of Intent with a general project description. The form is available HERE.
  • March 21 - 31, 2025: The committee reviews and selects projects that advance to the second stage.
  • April 1, 2025: Announcement of selected projects and notification of NGOs eligible to submit the extended application.

Stage II: Extended Application

  • April 1 - 12, 2025: Pre-selected NGOs submit the extended application.
  • April 13 - May 2, 2025: Final project evaluation, including a logical analysis of actions and budget.
  • May 3 - 14, 2025: Announcement of winners and contract signing.

Stage III: Implementation

  • May 15 - September 15, 2025: Project implementation.

Stage IV: Reporting

  • September 15 - 20, 2025: Submission of final reports.

Project evaluation

In the first stage, projects will be evaluated by the organizers together with Pepco employees who are active in the areas where NGOs operate, based on the information provided in the letter of intent.

Subsequently, projects will advance to the second stage for extended application submission and judging. The jury includes:

  • Raluca Popescu - Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist, Pepco
  • Cătălina Gheorghe - Brand Communication Specialist, Pepco
  • Dana Nae Popa – President of Asociația pastel
  • Andreea Oprea – Executive Director of Asociația pastel
  • Lăcrămioara Botezatu – CSRmedia.ro
  • Teodora Tompea – Journalist, Digi24

Evaluation criteria include project relevance, target definition, proposed activities aligned with project objectives, impact, and involvement of other community stakeholders (partners and/or volunteers). The final score of each project is the arithmetic mean of the scores given by jury representatives.

Starting this year, the Pepcolandia program is implemented and managed by Asociația pastel, an organization with experience in coordinating and carrying out national projects. Through its involvement, Asociația pastel ensures the entire project organization process, monitors implementation, and supports beneficiaries in achieving their set objectives. The collaboration between Pepco and Asociația pastel reflects a shared mission to increase access to quality education and develop a conducive learning environment for children and young people in Romania.

"We had the opportunity to be beneficiaries of a previous edition of Pepcolandia. We have firsthand experience of the positive impact this program has on communities and the children who participate in funded activities. Now, with this expanded role, we take on the responsibility of contributing to the success of the initiative by supporting NGOs in developing and implementing their projects. We believe in the power of non-formal education and are proud to work alongside Pepco Romania to create learning and leisure opportunities for children and young people in Romania", added Andreea Oprea, Executive Director of Asociația pastel.

10 years of Pepco Romania

The year 2025 marks 10 years of Pepco Romania, a decade in which the company has become one of the leading European retailers operating in Romania, offering affordable and high-quality products. Under the "Future at Heart" sustainability commitment, over the past five years, the company has invested in strategic social responsibility projects in education in Romania and strengthened its involvement in local communities through multiple social initiatives.