Prime Minister Edi Rama met today in Elbasan with winners of Albania’s 2025 startup program and applicants for 2026, who presented promising projects in technology and innovation.
During the meeting, Rama said technology is rapidly transforming economic development and innovation. He explained that the world has moved from linear growth to exponential growth, where new technologies now develop at an unprecedented speed.
According to Rama, products that once took months to improve can now change within weeks. He added that technological progress no longer depends mainly on wealth or geography, but on talent, persistence, and creative ideas.
“Today, technology gives everyone the chance to succeed,” Rama said. He stressed that people with strong ideas and determination can now compete on a global level regardless of their financial background.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the government’s role in supporting startups during the early stages of development. He said initial funding remains essential for helping young innovators transform ideas into real projects.
Rama also pointed to the sharp increase in applications for startup programs across Albania. In 2024, the program received 442 applications, while in 2025 the number rose to 536. This year, however, applications climbed to 1,219.
As a result, Rama announced that the government will increase funding for startups in the coming weeks. He said authorities will support more applicants beyond the originally planned number of winners.
In addition, the government plans to expand funding in proportion to the rise in applications. However, Rama noted that the selection committee will continue to support projects with strong development potential.
Meanwhile, Albania’s technology sector continues to grow rapidly. The country now has 3,300 registered technology companies and more than 21,000 specialists working in the industry.
At the same time, the number of students enrolled in digital technology programs has increased by 15%, reflecting growing interest among young people in the technology sector.
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