Albania’s Minister of Economy and Innovation, Delina Ibrahimaj, has highlighted the strong interest in Startup Albania 2026, which received 1,179 applications this year.
Following the selection process, Ibrahimaj stressed that the programme will continue to support applicants who were not selected as winners.
“Every idea deserves an opportunity,” Ibrahimaj said. She pointed to the 1,179 applications and the effort, ideas and determination behind them.
Moreover, she highlighted the case of Kreshnik Marku, who did not make the list of winners but praised the transparency of the process. According to Ibrahimaj, his experience shows why young entrepreneurs need opportunities to test their ideas, receive feedback and improve their projects.
Importantly, 20 of this year’s winning startups had also applied in previous editions. They returned with stronger projects and secured funding this time.
Meanwhile, the ministry will open consultation sessions for every applicant who was not selected. Experts will meet with applicants directly and explain what worked in their applications and what they need to improve.
“This ecosystem is not built only around winners. It is built around everyone who has the courage to try and create,” Ibrahimaj said.
In addition, financial support for startups will continue. Since 2022, authorities have provided €22 million in funding. Furthermore, the 2027 budget includes another €6 million for the sector.
Ibrahimaj also announced plans to launch the Albanian Innovation Fund during 2026. The fund will help startups move beyond the initial funding stage and support their growth.
Therefore, the government aims to build a stronger startup ecosystem where entrepreneurs can develop their ideas, access expert guidance and secure further investment.
“The grant was only the beginning,” Ibrahimaj said, stressing that those who take the risk to build a business should not be left without support.
/a.c/
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