Webinar Summary: Regional Startup Experience – Trends in the Startup World
Date: 28.01.2025. Teams platform:17:00 – 18:00h
Webinar Goal: To analyze the current state, emerging trends, and opportunities in the startup ecosystems of the Western Balkans (WB6), focusing on Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, and Kosovo*.
Key Points:
1. Current State of the Ecosystem:
* Serbia: ~400 startups, primarily in IT, AI, and blockchain. Challenges include limited capital access and brain drain.
* Bosnia and Herzegovina: Low density (~16 startups per million inhabitants). Strengths in ICT, with growing hubs like ICBL.
* Montenegro: ~761 startups as of 2023. Strong government support but challenges in private R&D investment.
* Albania: ~750 startups, emphasis on digital services and regional collaboration.
* North Macedonia: ~444 startups with high density (30 startups/million).
* Kosovo*: ~41 startups with notable challenges in financing and infrastructure.
2. Trends (2025-2030):
* Sector Focus: Green tech, health tech, fintech, and ICT.
* Investment Landscape: Increased venture capital and EU programs like Horizon Europe.
* Infrastructure Growth: Expansion of innovation hubs and coworking spaces.
* Policy Support: Initiatives fostering R&D and digital transformation.
3. Opportunities:
* Leveraging regional and EU funding.
* Developing niche sectors (renewable energy, biotech).
* Strengthening diaspora collaboration.
4. Challenges:
* Small domestic markets necessitating internationalization.
* Administrative and funding barriers.
* Talent retention amid brain drain.
Conclusion: Collaboration and strategic investment can transform the WB6 region into a competitive startup hub. Continued regional partnerships and leveraging global resources will ensure sustainable growth and innovation.
* All references to Kosovo, whether the territory, institutions or population, in this text shall be understood in full compliance with United Nations’ Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.
