Albania launches a large-scale program for state funding and technical support for local startups through the e-Albania digital platform

The Albanian government has approved a new strategic initiative that provides local start-ups with access to a wide range of financial instruments and specialized business development services. The decision regulates the provision of direct grants, capital financing, and coverage of research and development (R&D) costs. In addition to a financial "injection," entrepreneurs will be able to take advantage of free legal, financial, and business consultations, as well as access to state infrastructure for testing new products and technologies, BalkanEngineer.com learned from ATA (Albanian Telegraphic Agency).

The application process is fully digitalized and will be carried out through the government portal "e-Albania." To qualify for support, companies must be registered in the national register of electronic startups and meet strict criteria for tax compliance. The program is structured to cover businesses at different stages of development—from early-stage ideas to companies in the process of market validation or active development—with specific levels of assistance provided for each category.

An important element in the new scheme is the role of contractors, who will offer technical assistance to strengthen the operational capacity of start-ups. Oversight of the entire process will be entrusted to a specialized Agency for Startup and Innovation Development, which will monitor the targeted use of funds and the achievement of the set business goals.

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