What happens when an architect swaps blueprints for a mixing bowl? The result is Miscotti – a handmade biscuit brand that has won over dessert lovers with its original flavours and its story of courage, creativity, and career change.
Behind Miscotti is Mirta Atlija, an architect from Zagreb who turned her long-time hobby into a business. The cookies she creates, inspired by the Italian biscotti tradition, now come in numerous varieties, with added spices, nuts, dried fruits and chocolate, to pair ideally with wine, coffee or tea. But like many small businesses, Miscotti faced its share of challenges: defining the right target audience, standing out in a crowded market, and aligning its offer with customer expectations.
That is where the EDIH CROBOHUB++ project stepped in. The initiative provides free online training for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, family farms and craftspeople. Through the programme, Mirta – along with other participants – had the opportunity to learn how to better understand the market and adapt her products to customer needs. Experts covered topics such as market analysis, brand positioning and developing a clear sales and communication strategy. A special focus was placed on understanding what motivates customers, what they value, and how products like Miscotti can meet those expectations.
The impact of the training soon became visible. Mirta and other participants strengthened their entrepreneurial skills, gained a deeper understanding of the market and learned how to present their products and brands more effectively. The programme sparked new ideas, connected entrepreneurs with each other and opened doors to further business growth.
“Through my collaboration with EDIH, I learned to better understand both my product and the audience I am speaking to. It helped me see my business from a different perspective – not just as a hobby, but as a serious brand with real growth potential,” says Mirta.
The story of Miscotti shows how EDIH support can help small creative entrepreneurs build sustainable business models and gain a competitive edge while preserving what matters most – authenticity and a personal touch.
You can find one of Mirta’s recipes here: Miscotti Shortbread Cookies with Pistachios and Dark Chocolate
