Description
The central objective of the project is to increase the potential for internationalization and growth of young Albanian technology companies (startups) beyond the region. The limited size of the Slovak market caused difficulties for technology companies that had to learn how to cross the borders. Albanian companies have to contend with an even smaller market, which is also underdeveloped. The success of the UPLIFT Albania program has contributed to a significant improvement of the startup ecosystem in Albania, thus supporting the creation and development of ambitious startups. Developed Albanian firms also find it difficult to establish contacts or partnerships in the EU, not to mention the potential expansion into the single market. This project, therefore, responds to the call for the transfer of knowledge and know-how from Slovakia. Its main objective is to increase the potential for internationalization and growth of Albanian startups. The project will implement two batches of the soft-landing program, each designed for 6 startups / 12 participants. Each stay will last five days, during which participants attend three 4 hours long thematic workshops. Moreover, Albanian startups will get to know the Slovak startup ecosystem and will have the opportunity to present their company in order to attract investments, clients, or establish new partnerships. Slovakia can thus become a gateway to the single European market for them. The primary target group are competitive Albanian startups. However, Albanian program managers who will gain know-how in the field of internationalization of startups will also benefit from the program. As a result, they will be able to implement similar programs themselves after the end of the project. The project is coordinated by SOVVA in cooperation with ALBICT and will be implemented in Slovakia and Albania.