Hosted at the “Tech Park,” Kosovo’s “Newest House of Technology and Innovation,” the event provided a welcoming platform for two startups from Albania, one from North Macedonia, and one from Kosovo to present their ideas and ambitions to potential investors.

The evening kicked off with an engaging speech from KFSEE President Ardian Hoxha, who highlighted successful entrepreneurial stories from Kosovo. His aim was not only to showcase the ecosystem’s potential but also to encourage the founders in attendance to embrace their journeys and persevere despite challenges. His words resonated with many, reminding everyone of the resilience needed in entrepreneurship.

Mr. Hoxha also discussed the expansion of KFSEE’s network, emphasizing collaboration with regional investment funds, ranging from a modest €2 million from Bulgaria to a substantial €500 million from Hungary. He hinted at an exciting upcoming acceleration program that has already garnered international acclaim, though details remain under wraps until its official announcement.

The “KFSEE Investor Pitch Day” featured a special appearance by Mrs. Vjollca Çavolli, whose remarkable journey—from activism in international organizations to transforming Kosovo’s digital landscape—has been pivotal in building a thriving tech community. During her heartfelt remarks, she reflected on the initial struggles of establishing the Innovation Center Kosovo (ICK), recalling that “in the first six months, no one got in!”, then celebrating the community’s creative spirit that has since flourished.

The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the presentations from startups:

• Mirjana Josifoska, an entrepreneur from North Macedonia, introduced her brand, MJ Brand, focused on reducing textile pollution in Tetovo by crafting hats and accessories from leftover materials.
• Denis Ormenaj, founder of Blue Spot from Albania, presented a solution for a common issue in the Balkans: reserving parking spaces online.
• Geart Ferati, the newest member of the KFSEE community, shared his platform Suapr.com, created to help high school students excel in physics and math after experiencing similar struggles himself.
• Hekuran Doli, co-founder of Cybee, spoke about his team’s combined 150 years of experience in providing real-time cybersecurity solutions for businesses.

The event also welcomed Ravik Mima, Executive Director of KFSEE, who commended the founders for their impressive pitches. He emphasized the critical role such events play in fostering innovation and invited investors to the final stage of “Mind Sharing,” where they could discuss potential co-investments in the startups presented. Notably, KFSEE has seen at least one investment in a startup from each of its last three events across Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro, underscoring its commitment to nurturing regional entrepreneurship.

As the evening drew to a close, the networking session created a warm atmosphere, allowing entrepreneurs to seek feedback from investors and share ideas. Attendees appreciated the event’s unique format, which not only brought together key figures in the ecosystem but also actively contributed to making the dreams of dedicated founders a reality.

Keiretsu Forum SEE is emerging as a crucial player in the regional business landscape, connecting successful entrepreneurs who aspire to make a difference as business angels in Southeast Europe. It’s not just about being part of a forum; it’s about building a community that drives meaningful change. The membership of well-known Albanian entrepreneurs and investors remains an open call, inviting them to join their peers, invest in the region’s most promising startups, and help shape a brighter future while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in Kosovo, Albania, and beyond.