On 27 March 2026, the EIT Community Hub Albania, in collaboration with Durana Tech Park and 28Digital, hosted a high-level innovation event at Tirana International Hotel, bringing together key stakeholders from Albania’s digital, innovation, and policy ecosystem.
The event opened with strategic remarks from Dr. Florensa Haxhi, CEO of Durana Tech Park; Ms. Elira Kokona, CEO of the Albanian Investment Corporation (AIC); Ms. Delina Ibrahimaj, Minister of Economy and Innovation; Ms. Armela Baka, Deputy Minister of Education; and Dr. Françeska Korançe, EIT Community Officer at the EIT Community Hub Albania. Their insights set a forward-looking tone, emphasising the importance of public-private collaboration and of leveraging platforms like 28Digital to accelerate Albania’s digital transformation and strengthen its presence in the European innovation landscape.
28Digital mission and instruments
A central highlight was the session “28Digital Mission and Instruments: National Ecosystem Opportunities”, delivered by Mr. Tuan Trinh, Regional Director East at 28Digital. The session showcased how 28Digital serves as a gateway to digital innovation in Europe, supporting entrepreneurs, startups, researchers, and institutions through funding, mentorship, and cross-border collaboration. An interactive fireside round followed, giving participants the chance to put their questions directly to the speaker.
Hands-on thematic workshops
The event continued with hands-on thematic workshops, facilitated by 28Digital experts Mr. Antonio García-Hortal, Ms. Vilma Djala, Ms. Maddalena Buonamico, Mr. Gergely Horváth, and Mr. Botond Vajda, and moderated by Mr. Krisztián Gál, Ecosystem Lead at 28Digital. Participants explored EU funding strategies, academia-industry collaboration, startup scaling, and international visibility for Albanian tech companies. The sessions provided practical guidance, expert feedback, and actionable next steps for advancing digital innovation locally and regionally. The day concluded with a networking lunch.
The event brought together policymakers, investors, academia, and innovators, strengthening collaboration and positioning Durana Tech Park as a potential regional platform for 28Digital initiatives in Albania and the Western Balkans.
How can you get involved?
If you’re interested in delving deeper into the EIT’s offerings and discovering how it can support you on your innovation or entrepreneurial journey, please reach out to the EIT Community RIS HUB Albania: albania@eitcommunity.eu or follow the LinkedIn page: EIT Community Hub Albania and EIT Community RIS Hub in Albania country page.
