Balkonnect 2026: forum for cooperation and investment in Southeast Europe

Balkonnect 2026 will take place on 21 and 22 May 2026 in Tirana (Albania) as an international gathering aimed at fostering investment, business cooperation, and the development of opportunities in Southeast Europe. The event will bring together investors, companies, startups, public institutions, and ecosystem stakeholders to create strategic connections, explore projects, and facilitate agreements through thematic sessions, pitching, and B2B meetings.

Agenda

The agenda is structured around key sectors for economic development and international collaboration:

Day 1 – Tourism & Experience Economy

• Sessions on tourism investment in Albania and the Western Balkans, destination management, technology applied to hospitality, and the creative economy.
• Exhibitions by SMEs in tourism, gastronomy, culture, and creative industries.
• Meeting of the World Business Angels Forum – Balkans Meetup focused on regional investment opportunities.
• Presentation of projects from cities and public institutions featuring financing models and public-private collaboration.
• Networking cocktail to facilitate connections between investors and participants.

Day 2 – Green, Infrastructure & Digital Economy

• Sessions on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and the circular economy.
• Discussions on investments in infrastructure, urban regeneration, mobility, and project financing.
• Session on the digital economy and banking, including digital identity, cybersecurity, and fintech.
• Specialised masterclasses.
• Pitching sessions by startups and SMEs with scalable business models before investors.
• Matchmaking sessions and one-to-one meetings.
• Closing session with announcements of agreements and event awards.

Opportunities for companies and organisations

• B2B meetings and structured networking.
• Access to investors and investment forums.
• Presentation of projects and funding opportunities.
• Participation in sectoral sessions and masterclasses.
• Visibility in an international environment focused on regional cooperation.

Who is it for?

• Companies and SMEs interested in internationalisation in the Balkans.
• Startups and scaleups seeking investment or partnerships.
• Investors, business angels, and financial institutions.
• Public administrations and project promoters.
• Clusters, associations, and business support organisations.

Balkonnect 2026 positions itself as a space to connect ecosystems, identify business opportunities, and advance projects with European projection in strategic sectors.

More information at BALKONNECT FESTIVAL