The delegation is supported by Albania Economy and Moneys Magazine, who have generously covered the travel expenses. However, we call upon the assistance of sponsors for further support.

Also the desks of Albania Economy and the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Albania, the organizers of the delegation and partners of the WMF. But the real surprise will be the delegation of Albanian startups, including Codon, LekoTech and ConsciESG, three finalists of the WMF Albania last March 15, ready to show the world their potential and determination. An explosive mix of energy and innovation that will be the talk of the town!

World Startup Fest, the international leading event for startups, scaleups and investors, will be  back at WMF – We Make Future, June 15-17, at the Rimini Expo Centre.

World Startup Fest, the international leading  event for startups, scaleups and investors, returns to Rimini, June 15-17. Among the 1.000 startups that will gather in Rimini during the three-day event, more than 350 will have a booth inside the Startup District, the exhibition area reserved for startups and innovative projects from around the world, B2B meetings between investors and innovative realities, and business matching and networking events. 
This edition is more international than ever, with realities arriving from Egypt, Germany, Spain, Poland, UK, Japan and the United States.  There will be also delegations of foreign startups from the Albania, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Germany and Greece, selected during the stages of the International Roadshow, the WMF’s project aimed at building an ecosystem of innovative and sustainable entrepreneurship at global level and generating a flow of ideas and projects with an international twist between Italy and abroad. Not only that: delegations from countries such as Switzerland, Poland, Croatia, Serbia,

Palestine and Jordan are also expected, as well as startup delegations from Italian territories such as Matera, Civita di Bagnoregio and Taranto, destinations involved in the WMF’s Italian Roadshow.

Up until today, we revealed 120 startups  of the +200 that will pitch during the event, selected from the WMF’s Startup Competition call as well as national and international events. These startups will have the  opportunity, during the World Startup Fest, to present their pitches in front of investors, innovation managers, corporations, incubators and professionals, who will award the best with numerous prizes to support the development of business projects. 

The startup pitches will focus on the 12 Future Challenges identified by the WMF for creating a shared, inclusive and environmentally sustainable tomorrow.  Particularly advocated are the Future of Cities and Communities, Future of Health, Future of Work, Future of Finance and Insurance and Future of Planet Earth challenges. Other challenges submitted to the startups also included topics such as Learning & Education, Culture & Travel, Food & Agriculture, Retail & Customer Experience, Marketing, Media & Entertainment, Sports & Events.

The final of the Startup Competition, co-hosted by Cosmano Lombardo and Diletta Leotta, on the Mainstage of WMF 2023

Among the most anticipated events of the World Startup Fest is also the final of the Startup Competition, the largest international competition for startups, which will be held, as usual, on the WMF Mainstage and will be hosted by Cosmano Lombardo, founder and CEO of Search On Media Group and creator of the WMF, together with Diletta Leotta.  During the event, the 6 finalist startups will compete, called to present their innovative products or services through a pitch competition, in front of an international audience composed of players from the innovation ecosystem including VCs and investment funds and the participants of the WMF, which expects more than 60.000 attendees from around the world at 2023 edition.

L'articolo Albania is ready to showcase all its potential at We Make Future Italy. proviene da Albania Economia.

From Trentino to the international market: how did Xlam Dolomiti come to life, and what path led you to become a benchmark in timber construction?

Xlam Dolomiti was founded from the vision of the Paterno family to enter the world of timber construction. It began with the acquisition of a company already active in the sector and later with the creation of Italy’s largest Xlam/CLT production facility. Since 2012, when the first CE-marked panel left the production line, Xlam Dolomiti has steadily expanded its market presence. The company has evolved from a simple manufacturer and supplier of structural materials into a fully integrated construction firm specializing in timber structures, as well as hybrid and prefabricated solutions using innovative materials.

Your expansion into Tirana comes at a time when Albania is becoming increasingly attractive to international investors. How much of this decision is tied to the country itself, and how much to its position as a gateway to the Balkans?

We arrived in Albania after gaining experience in several neighboring countries. The Tirana office was the first to have one of our Italian managers on-site to organize and train our local team. The growing attention from foreign investors certainly influenced our decision, but it was only one of many factors we considered. Another key aspect is the high level of technical competence among young Albanian professionals, particularly in the design software we also use in Italy.

The construction market here is dynamic but still deeply rooted in traditional methods. How can your timber-based approach change the rules of the game?

This is one of our main challenges. The local market will not be easy to penetrate, but our goal is to establish a solid reference point in the Balkans. We plan to start local initiatives to identify the right project—one that will allow us to deliver the first shipment of Xlam/CLT panels to the peninsula.

Albania is a seismic country. How can timber construction offer advantages over traditional methods?

As in Italy, this is a major advantage for us. Timber structures are significantly lighter, and thanks to metal connectors, they are able to dissipate seismic energy efficiently through the foundations. From this perspective, we hold a clear competitive advantage.

From Italy’s tallest timber building to large university campuses in Australia, what lessons from your international experience will guide your expansion in the Balkans?

One key lesson is the importance of supporting clients from the earliest design stages. Working closely together allows us to achieve optimized results on every level. Our international projects have strengthened our technical know-how, increased our competitiveness, and shown us that there are truly no limits to what can be achieved.

During the inauguration of your Tirana office, you welcomed the Italian Ambassador to Albania, Marco Alberti, along with local partners. How is your Albanian team taking shape, and what role will it play in strengthening Xlam Dolomiti’s regional presence?

The Tirana office is fundamental. It is first and foremost a new workspace for our young professionals, who experience it daily, but it will also serve as a meeting point for potential clients and investors interested in learning more about our technology. It represents the first and most important step toward establishing a strong presence in this market.

L'articolo From the Dolomites to the Balkans: building sustainably with Italian wood proviene da Albania Economia.

An event with sustainability at its core

On September 1, 2025, Frut’za, a venue designed with sustainability in mind, became the stage for GreenPacting 2025—a day dedicated to innovation, impact, and the development of green skills for the next generation. Representatives from international organizations, startups, universities, and young changemakers came together with the common goal of accelerating Albania’s transition toward a sustainable economy.

Collaboration as a driving force: IMMA and Risi Albania

The day began with Fabiola Duro, founder of the Innovation Management Academy Albania (IMMA), who highlighted the 12-year collaboration with Risi Albania. Her message was clear: the motivation behind these initiatives has always been to create a positive legacy for children and future generations.

HELVETAS Albania: turning vision into reality

Next on stage was Edlira Muedini from HELVETAS Albania, who described the gathering as proof that “the vision for a green economy meets the courage to make it real.” Her colleague, Ermira Shyti, emphasized that green skills are not only technical know-how but essential competencies for the future. She noted that the uniqueness of this collaboration lies in how it was designed to meet the needs of young people preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

Inspiring stories from youth and entrepreneurs

The audience then heard real stories of transformation:

• Xhoi Shahini, a young professional, shared how green skills training helped her adapt to market demands, collaborate more effectively, and deliver better results for her clients.

• Aneida Bicja, founder of the startup Doll’App, spoke proudly about forging her own entrepreneurial path, guided by sustainability and social impact. Her journey was a testament to following one’s mission rather than conforming to traditional expectations.

• Frut’za: where creativity and community thrive

  Event host Genti Zotaj, founder of Frut’za, welcomed participants with words of encouragement: “Life is a canvas—have fun, leave a message, and create proof that you were here.” He reminded everyone that success is rooted in community, where giving back is as important as receiving.

  Youth perspectives also stood out. Denisa Kasa, a young activist, explained how finance and sustainability can merge to create meaningful environmental impact, while Majlinda Bara from the European University of Tirana showcased student-driven projects designed to tackle Albania’s environmental challenges through creativity and innovation.

  Networking and new opportunities

  The event concluded with a vibrant networking session, where organizations, students, and entrepreneurs exchanged ideas and explored new collaborations. The experience was enriched by healthy cakes, sandwiches, and juices carefully prepared by Frut’za’s team.

  Conclusion

  GreenPacting 2025 was more than an event—it was a collective statement of purpose. It showed that when vision, courage, and collaboration come together, sustainability is not just an aspiration but a reality already taking shape. For Albania, it was a powerful reminder that green skills and innovative partnerships are the foundation of a greener future.

  

L'articolo GreenPacting 2025: Inspiration, Innovation, and Green Skills at Frut’za in Tirana proviene da Albania Economia.

TimeFlow is a rapidly emerging player in the IT sector. Can you tell us how the idea for this startup was born?

The idea for TimeFlow came from my experience in the IT sector. During my professional journey, I noticed an increasing difficulty in finding profiles for software development. Instead of simply expanding the HR team, I decided to create a more innovative solution: an Academy to train new talent. At the beginning of 2020, I sold my shares to transition towards a product-based company: thus, TimeFlow was born, an AI-based platform to connect companies with IT suppliers. The idea is rooted in the awareness of the enormous problems companies in the sector face in creating new connections with other businesses and finding competent and qualified technology partners.

How is TimeFlow revolutionizing the process of selecting and engaging technological partners for companies?

TimeFlow uses an artificial intelligence algorithm to analyze client needs. In real-time, our technology calculates the best match between the companies’ requirements and the suppliers’ skills, proposing the most qualified IT partners internationally. This reduces the time and cost of scouting and engagement, improving the efficiency and quality of the sourcing process.

How does TimeFlow differentiate itself from other IT outsourcing platforms on the market?

TimeFlow is not just a marketplace for IT skills. Our platform also offers a Vendor Management Platform that allows companies to manage their supplier base, digitizing and centralizing commercial relationships. The solution facilitates informed procurement decisions, enabling the selection of the most suitable supplier based on comprehensive, real-time data, making the IT procurement process more efficient.

Your startup is a Benefit Corporation. Why did you choose this legal form and how does it reflect in your daily operations?

We chose to become a Benefit Corporation because we want to have a positive impact on both people and the environment. Many of us, myself included, are particularly mindful of these issues even in our private lives. We offset CO2 emissions and collaborate with partners specializing in sustainability. Additionally, we are part of Social Innovation Teams, promoting an economic model that generates a positive impact on society.

TimeFlow has recently begun an internationalization process starting from India. What are your global ambitions and how do you see Albania in your expansion path?

India was a strategic choice because it is a market rich in IT skills. We created a technological ‘bridge’ that allows Indian companies to connect with European ones, facilitating a mutually beneficial encounter. After India, we aim to expand into the UK, France, Germany, and Spain. Albania represents a new frontier for us, with its growing tech ecosystem and a young, dynamic workforce. We want to offer Albanian companies the opportunity to connect with high-level technology partners and foster the growth of the local IT sector.

How do you plan to approach the Albanian market and what opportunities do you see for TimeFlow in Albania?

We see great potential in Albania, with its growing economy and increasing interest in technological innovation. According to data from aida.gov.al, Albania has about 35,000 employees in the ICT BPO sector, demonstrating the presence of a qualified workforce ready to grow. We intend to create a network of Albanian IT suppliers who can offer their skills internationally. We are confident that our platform can help Albanian companies quickly find new opportunities, improving the efficiency and competitiveness of the IT sector in this country.

L'articolo TimeFlow, The Italian Startup Revolutionizing the IT Sector and Looking to Albania proviene da Albania Economia.

Mariglen Dine’s adventure began amidst the pulsating beats of his DJ career. With a remarkable ability to read the crowd and curate unforgettable moments, he developed a deep appreciation for the art of hospitality. Fuelled by his desire to offer a unique experience, Mariglen decided to broaden his knowledge by pursuing a business management course in New York City. This immersive experience provided him with a solid foundation, equipping him with the skills to bring his vision to life.

The convergence of the two ambitious Albanian individuals laid the foundation for their extraordinary collaboration. Joined by chef Vilfrid Hodaj and partner Sammy V. Gashi, they applied their collective knowledge with meticulous care. 

Duomo51, their brainchild, transcends the definition of an Italian restaurant. For Mariglen Dine and Alban Jakupaj, the realization of their dream represents the culmination of their love for the industry, the invaluable lessons they’ve learned, and the transformative journey that led them here. 

To delve deeper into the inspiring story of Mariglen Dine and Alban Jakupaj, and to discover the passion and dedication that have made Duomo51 a culinary destination, continue reading the full interview in Albania Economia conducted by Besara Kaja.

As founders and friends, how do your individual strengths and skills complement each other in running Duomo51?

As founders and friends, our individual strengths and skills seamlessly complement each other in running Duomo51. Each of us brings a unique set of talents and experiences to the table, creating a dynamic and well-rounded team that drives the success of our restaurant.

First and foremost, we value open communication and trust within our partnership. This foundation allows us to effectively leverage our strengths and collaborate towards a common goal. By understanding and respecting each other’s expertise, we maximize our collective potential.

Ultimately, our partnership at Duomo51 is founded on mutual respect, trust, and the understanding that our individual strengths and skills are stronger together. By capitalizing on our unique abilities, we create a formidable team that drives the success of our restaurant and ensures the fulfillment of our shared vision.

Duomo51 has been praised for seamlessly blending Italian tradition and modernity. How did you achieve this balance in your restaurant’s concept and menu?

At Duomo51, our commitment to seamlessly blending Italian Tuscan tradition and modernity is at the heart of our restaurant’s concept and menu. We have strived to create a dining experience that pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of Tuscany while incorporating contemporary elements that appeal to the discerning tastes of our guests.
To achieve this delicate balance, we embarked on a journey to immerse ourselves in the essence of Tuscan cuisine. We delved into the region’s culinary traditions, exploring the time-honored recipes, authentic ingredients, and cooking techniques that define Tuscan gastronomy. This deep understanding of Tuscan tradition became the foundation upon which we built our concept.

Our menu is a carefully curated by chef Vilfird Hodaj witch is a blend of classic Tuscan dishes and innovative interpretations that reflect modern culinary trends. To infuse a touch of modernity, we introduce contemporary elements into our menu. This can be seen in our creative use of locally sourced ingredients, innovative flavor combinations, and artful presentation. We seek inspiration from global culinary influences while ensuring that the core Tuscan flavors and techniques remain the focus.

Forbes recently featured an article about your restaurant, highlighting its unique qualities. How has this exposure impacted your business and brand?

The exposure and recognition from Forbes featuring our restaurant have had a significant impact on both our business and brand. The article served as a powerful endorsement of our unique qualities and brought attention to our establishment on a global scale.

First and foremost, the Forbes article elevated our restaurant’s reputation and credibility within the industry. It showcased our commitment to excellence, innovation, and the exceptional dining experience we offer. As a result, we have witnessed a surge in interest and a growing number of diners seeking to experience what Forbes has acclaimed.

The exposure in Forbes also helped expand our reach to a broader audience. The article reached a wide readership, including food enthusiasts, industry professionals, and potential investors. This increased visibility has translated into a higher volume of inquiries, reservations, and foot traffic to our restaurant.

What sets Duomo51 apart from other Italian restaurants in New York City? How do you create a distinct experience for your customers?

What truly sets Duomo51 apart is our commitment to providing an extraordinary experience. From tableside preparations to breathtaking views, rooftop dining, personalized service, and a focus on authentic Italian flavors, we create a distinct atmosphere that captivates all the senses. It is this attention to detail and dedication to creating lasting memories that make dining with us an unparalleled experience in New York City.

Duomo51 offers an extensive wine list. How do you curate your wine selection, and how does it complement the dining experience?

At Duomo51, we take great pride in our extensive wine list, which has been thoughtfully curated to complement and enhance the dining experience for our guests. We believe that a carefully selected wine can elevate the flavors of our cuisine and create a harmonious pairing that delights the palate.

When curating our wine selection, we collaborate closely with experienced sommeliers and wine experts. 

Our wine list is a celebration of both Italian wines and international offerings. We pay homage to Italy’s rich winemaking heritage by including a wide array of Italian wines, representing various regions, grape varietals, and winemaking traditions. From iconic Barolos and Brunellos to crisp Pinot Grigios and aromatic Chiantis, our Italian wine selection showcases the depth and breadth of Italy’s viticultural treasures.

Looking ahead, what are your future plans for Duomo51?

Looking ahead, our vision for Duomo51 extends beyond our current success. We have ambitious plans to expand and establish the name Duomo51 as an international brand synonymous with exceptional Italian dining experiences.

In the years to come, we aim to open additional Duomo51 locations in key cities around the world. Our goal is to bring our unique blend of Italian Tuscan tradition and modernity to new audiences, sharing our passion for culinary excellence and unforgettable hospitality on a global scale.

Given your success in New York City, have you considered leveraging your experience to invest in your home country?

Thank you for your insightful question. As proud Albanians, we hold a deep love and appreciation for our home country and its rich culinary heritage. We are indeed considering leveraging our experience and success in New York City to invest in Albania and bring the essence of Duomo51 to our fellow Albanians.

Our desire to invest in Albania stems from a genuine passion for showcasing the authentic flavors of our homeland and contributing to the culinary landscape in Albania. We believe that our extensive experience in the restaurant industry, coupled with our understanding of Albanian culture and cuisine, positions us well to create a remarkable dining experience that resonates with our fellow countrymen.

In our efforts to connect with the Albanian community, we are actively seeking to engage important figures within the Albanian community. By collaborating with influential individuals, organizations, and media in Albania, we aim to generate excitement and awareness about our restaurant and its unique offerings. Our intention is to bring as many Albanians as possible to experience the flavors of Duomo51 and create a sense of pride and connection to our culinary heritage.

Moreover, we are committed to opening a Duomo51 location in Albania, serving as a beacon of Italian Tuscan tradition and modernity within our home country. This venture would not only allow us to introduce Albanians to our exceptional cuisine but also contribute to the local economy, provide employment opportunities, and promote the vibrant food scene in Albania.

By: Besara Kaja, Albania Economia Magazine

L'articolo Unveiling Duomo51: Albanian Entrepreneurs Bringing Italian Flavors to the Heart of NYC proviene da Albania Economia.

Adeliada emphasizes the positive effects of high ESG scoring, particularly in the field of climate action, which goes beyond just attracting additional financing and investment opportunities. Moreover, she provides insights into ConsciESG’s forthcoming ventures, such as the creation of an AI technology that can conduct a thorough and precise ESG scan of a company’s supply chain over time.

Tell us about your background.

There are three people in our core team: Briseida Gjoza, Adeliada Mehmetaj and Shpat Ferizi. 

Briseida Gjoza, our CEO, is a born leader. She has over a decade in leadership, sales & management experience for multinational companies. She has previously implemented SDG-aligned projects for UNESCO World Heritage in Senegal, Africa. She is currently an elected official in her city, Elbasan, Albania. She holds a B.A. in Business Administration and European Studies from the American University in Bulgaria. She leads ConsciESG’s business development. 

Adeliada Mehmetaj, our CFO, has a Ph.D. in Economics from Drexel University. She was a full-time faculty of Economics and Business Statistics at Seattle University before returning to Albania to start ConsciESG. She holds a B.A. degree in Mathematics and Economics from the American University in Bulgaria. She leads ConsciESG’s R&D. 

Shpat Ferizi is our CTO. He has an undergraduate degree in computer sciences from the American University in Bulgaria and an MBA from the University of New Haven. He has 10+ years of experience as a software developer and a track record in entrepreneurship. 

Can you tell us about your journey in co-founding ConsciESG and what motivated you to create an ESG fintech company?

ConsciESG started after my return to Albania from a decade in the United States. I met with Briseida who had just gotten out of her general elections campaign and we initially wanted to find a solution to tackle the brain drain problem in Albania from a business sustainability perspective. Soon we realized that we were not tackling just a regional issue, but a global pain point and to maximize the impact of our company to the world, we focused on developing transparent ESG impact tools for institutional investors globally. 

It was no coincidence that we co-founded ConsciESG. Briseida and I have known each other since high school. We both attended the Mehmet Akif Turkish high school in Albania, followed by the American University in Bulgaria. We share the same worth ethic, values and vision. We are both hardworking and stubborn to keep going even when things get hard and this past year has definitely challenged us. Being a startup founder in the current economic times is not easy, but we believe that ConsciESG addresses and solves an important global problem, which motivates us to be creative not only in our product but also in our business development. 

Regardless of the challenges, we have managed to accomplish a lot in this one year together as ConsciESG. We have secured a global data partnership with Morningstar and Factset, through our selection in the prestigious Fintech Sandbox data residency program in Massachusetts. We have secured our tech partnership with Google for Startups and are currently in five ongoing POCs with leading regional institutions.  Aside from the WMF award, we have also won a UNDP Boost award as women innovators from Europe and Central Asia, followed by the Uplift Western Balkans Award. Finally, an announcement, ConsciESG has just received an invitation to the Fintech Sandbox VIP Reception at the NY Fintech Week, which our CEO, Briseida will attend in the last week of April, with the support of EU for Innovation. 

Can you explain how ConsciESG’s ESG impact software works, and how it helps institutional investors access transparent and accurate ESG impact scores?

ConsciESG is an ESG Fintech startup that helps institutional investors deploy funds for impact with confidence. We bring more transparency to our clients through an innovative ESG impact scoring framework, stock and portfolio level analytics and are currently working on developing an innovative AI-powered database that will be capable of reducing ESG data gaps across a company’s supply chain over time. Our scores that are derived from the progress of companies on ESG themes, help investors separate true impact from greenwashing. In our product pipeline, we also have planned for the development of a portfolio optimisation tool that helps impact investors to build portfolios that jointly realize higher impact and higher alphas. 

In what ways can high ESG scoring in climate action benefit businesses beyond attracting additional financing and investment opportunities? Can you provide some examples of the positive benefits of high ESG scoring?

ESG ratings in the recent years have evolved to incorporate long-term financial risks and opportunities of investments. The environmental (E) pillar score is now much more accurate due to the improvement in the availability of higher quality environmental data. Additionally it is increasingly being used as a tool to align investments with key climate targets such as a low-carbon transition, biodiversity protection etc. Overall, the field is fast evolving and there is an increasing number of innovative products and solutions that are currently being developed globally, in order to help investors align their portfolios with specific climate-objectives in line with the Paris Agreement. 

What are some of the biggest challenges in measuring ESG impact, and how is ConsciESG addressing these challenges?

ESG Impact is hard to measure for three main reasons: 

1. There are existing data gaps which make it difficult to consistently assess impact over time
2. There is lack of standardization on what ESG themes should contribute to an ESG impact score
3. There is no consensus on what exactly is meant with ESG impact. 

Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or developments for ConsciESG, and how you see the company evolving in the future?

We are currently working on developing an AI technology that can perform a precise and full ESG scan of a company’s supply chain over time, which is capable of reducing data gaps for both private and public institutions of all sizes and geolocations. 

Parallely, we are also finalizing the model of an investment optimization tool that will be capable of building liquid asset portfolios that jointly realize higher impact and higher alpha. 

We will be forever proud of having started ConsciESG from our home country, Albania. Given the niche but very fast growing ESG Fintech market in which we compete, we hope to become the standard for ESG impact scoring and for portfolio impact optimisation tools. 

What are the main challenges that a female founder faces when starting a business?

The main challenges that a female founder faces when starting a business based on our own experience are threefold:  defying social expectations , accessing funding in a gender-biased environment and owning our accomplishments.

What are the initiatives or programs that support women entrepreneurs and can help them secure the necessary funding for their business?

There are existing programs that support women entrepreneurs, most of them in the US and the EU. Specific ones that we are members of are  Graham & Walker, Golden Seeds, UNDP Central Asia & Europe which actually was the first one to support us under their BOOST program of Women Innovators, etc.

On March 15th, ConsciESG participated in the WMF International Roadshow Albania. What was the aspect that you liked the most and what do you expect from participating in the WMF Italy in June?

What we liked most about the WMF International Roadshow Albania was the perfect balance between presentations and networking. The investors speed table was very productive.
From WMF Italy in June, we aim to bring the “prize” back home to Albania. We are hoping to meet the right investors and companies which share our vision, to partner with. 

L'articolo ConsciESG, a startup that helps companies become competitive by offering value in the environment and society proviene da Albania Economia.

L'articolo Kushtrim Puka, Codon’s AI-powered system revolutionizes healthcare management for institutions proviene da Albania Economia.

The WMF International Roadshow took place on March 15th at the Maritim Hotel in Tirana, and it was a great success! The event was organized by WMF – We Make Future in collaboration with Albania Economia Magazine, Moneys Magazine and the Camera di Commercio Italiana in Albania – CCIA. The event was dedicated to creating new connections between the innovation ecosystems of Italy and Albania. The program included keynotes, success case analyses, round tables, and a startup competition that saw the best of the active and energetic Albanian innovation ecosystem compete. The three winning startups will take part in WMF, the International Fair and Festival of Technological and Digital Innovation organized by Search On Media Group, which will take place on June 15th, 16th, and 17th, 2023, in Rimini, Italy.

The event in Albania is part of the WMF – We Make Future International Roadshow project, a global journey inaugurated in 2021 with the aim of creating a bridge of international cooperation between innovation ecosystems worldwide.

The participation for the Tirana event was great, and there were many prominent institutional figures in attendance, including the Minister for the Protection of Albanian Entrepreneurship, Edona Bilali, who commented, “The future is at our doorstep, and it takes the form of technological and digital innovation, and we as a government have decided to welcome it without reservations.” Bilali continued, “That’s why we decided to join the WMF train, along with 49 other countries, the largest international event on digital innovation worldwide. I’m happy to be in the company of these energetic people and to witness their empowerment journey that will take them to Rimini in June at WMF, the International Fair and Festival of Technological and Digital Innovation. Thanks to WMF, Albania Economia, Moneys Magazine, and the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Albania. A special thanks to the most innovative ambassador, Fabrizio Bucci, and to Erion [n.d.r. Veliaj, mayor of Tirana], who has transformed Tirana into an incredible digital hub recognized internationally.”

During the opening speech, Cosmano Lombardo, CEO of Search On Media Group and creator of WMF, added, “We’re happy to have brought WMF to Albania and to have connected with this vital innovation ecosystem, full of potential and projects destined to create a positive impact on the community.” Lombardo continued, “With international events, we make the WMF ecosystem available to local innovative projects to support their concrete development. In this regard, the three best startups selected here in Tirana will be with us at WMF next June, where they will meet investors, companies, and participants from all over the world. The WMF International Roadshow is a tool that operates as a bridge between several countries that together make up an Innovation Valley, where institutions, startups, and citizens work to respond to the great global challenges that await us. We’re sure that the success of this first event in Tirana will lead us to collaborate again in the future, with new events and projects.”

L'articolo Huge success for the WMF event in Tirana proviene da Albania Economia.

Nikolin, can you tell us about the origin story of LekoTech and what inspired you to co-found it? 

The origin story of our startup began with a vision to create an e-commerce platform for used spare parts. The initial goal was to make it easy for customers to find and purchase quality used spare parts online, while also providing sellers with a new platform to sell their products. Francesco Carbone (Swiss/Italian Project Manager) and Ledjon Agalliu (Albanian Electronic Engineer) had their first business meeting on October 2017. With similar values and a shared interest in developing a unique project, Elton Ngjela (CTO & Solution Architect) and me (Co-Founder, Software Development Manager) join and complete the co-founder’s team, and Lekotech was born.

However, as we began developing our platform, we quickly realized that there was a significant problem with the way businesses were managing their inventory of used spare parts. Many businesses had a manual and time-consuming process for managing their inventory, which was not only inefficient but also prone to errors. This made it difficult for them to keep track of their inventory, and they often struggled to find the right parts when they needed them.

To address this issue, we pivoted our business model from an e-commerce platform to a SaaS inventory system for used spare parts. Our new platform allowed businesses to digitize their inventory, making it easier for them to manage their parts, track their inventory levels, and quickly find the parts they needed when they needed them.

There were several factors that inspired me to co-found a SaaS for digitizing used spare parts. Firstly, I noticed that there was a significant gap in the market for an efficient and streamlined way to manage the inventory of used spare parts. Many businesses that dealt with used spare parts had a manual and time-consuming process for managing their inventory, which was not only inefficient but also prone to errors.

Secondly, I observed that there was a growing demand for sustainability in the industry. With the rise of environmental concerns and regulations, businesses were looking for ways to reduce waste and extend the lifespan of their products. By digitizing the inventory of used spare parts, we could make it easier for businesses to reuse and recycle parts, reducing the amount of waste and promoting sustainable practices.

Lastly, I was motivated by the potential of technology to transform the industry. With the advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence, we could develop a platform that could automate many of the processes involved in managing the inventory of used spare parts, making it faster, more accurate, and more efficient than ever before.

How does LekoTech’s software platform help to transform the core of the car industry and what are its key features?

Allowing us to digitize their inventory and operations, and creating this software platform redefines the way how the car wreckers industry, technology and people work.

Digitized Inventory Management: LekoTech SaaS platform can digitize the inventory of used spare parts, making it easier for businesses to manage their inventory levels, track the availability of parts, and quickly find the parts they need. This can greatly improve efficiency and accuracy, reducing the time and resources needed to manage inventory manually.

Automated Part Identification: LekoTech platform can identify the full applicability of parts which is one of the core elements of our solution, reducing the need for manual identification and increasing accuracy. This can help to speed up the process of finding the right part, making it easier for businesses to meet customer demand quickly.
Used spare part applicability refers to the compatibility of a used spare part with a specific make and model of a vehicle. This means a spare part can fit perfectly in many vehicles.

Integration with eCommerce Platforms: LekoTech platform can integrate with eCommerce platforms like eBay.com and Subito.it, making it easier for our car wreckers to sell their used spare parts online end expose their inventory.

Sustainability and Environmentally Friendly: LekoTech platform can help to promote sustainability and environmentally friendly practices by enabling businesses to reuse and recycle parts more efficiently. This can reduce waste, promote circular economy practices, and reduce the environmental impact of the industry. Car salvage is strictly regulated by the normative 2000/53/CE. Used Spare parts are often called also Green Parts and they have a huge inpact on the environemnt
Actually they are the perfect mode how something can be reused

How does LekoTech differentiate itself from other fleet management and e-commerce platforms in the market?

LekoTech platform for Car Wreckers differentiates itself from other platforms in the market by focusing specifically on used spare part inventory management, using part identification, having a user-friendly interface, integrating with eCommerce platforms, and offering customizable features. These features provide a unique solution to a specific problem and deliver a tailored user experience.
LekoTech can be an Industry Standard for Car Wreckers, We improve performance across car wreckers, automated operations and sales. We have not customized our software for one or two clients but we have set a standard for all of them together to use the same software.

What challenges did you face in the early stages of developing LekoTech and how did you overcome them?

In the early stages of developing LekotTech, we faced several challenges, including:

Limited Funding: As a startup, we had limited financial resources to invest in the development of the platform. This meant that we had to be strategic in how we allocated our resources to ensure that we could develop a functional and efficient platform with limited funding.

Limited Access to Car Wreckers: In the early stages, we also had limited access to car wreckers, which made it difficult to source quality used spare parts to sell on our platform.

In addition to these challenges, we also had to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic, which had a significant impact on the automotive industry and the market for used spare parts. Especially in the Italian market where we operate. Every car wrecker was closed for several months.

To overcome these challenges, we prioritized the development of key features that would make our platform unique and more efficient than existing solutions, building a strong team, leveraging technology, and adapting to the situation. This allowed us to differentiate ourselves from the competition and attract users who were looking for a more tailored solution.

What are the future plans for LekoTech in terms of expanding its services or entering new markets?

At LekoTech, our goal is to continuously innovate and improve our platform to meet the changing needs of the industry and our customers. We are always exploring opportunities to expand our services and enter new markets, while staying true to our mission of providing a unique solution for used spare part inventory management.

One area of expansion that we are currently exploring is international markets. We see significant potential in expanding our platform to serve businesses in other regions, and we are actively researching and analyzing market trends and demand to identify potential opportunities. We are currently exploring the markets in French, Spain, and Germany. Also In February, we had the opportunity to showcase our SaaS platform to the USA market in Florida to local Car Wreckers.

How does LekoTech ensure the security and privacy of its users’ data?

We take the security and privacy of our users’ data very seriously. We understand that data protection is a critical concern for businesses, especially when it comes to sensitive information like inventory management data. To ensure the security and privacy of our users’ data, we have implemented several measures and protocols.

What is your vision for the future of the car industry and how do you see LekoTech playing a role in it?

Our vision for the future of the car wreckers industry is one where sustainability and circular economy practices are at the forefront. We believe that the industry has a significant role to play in reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices, and we see LekoTech platform as a key enabler in this vision. We envision a future where businesses dealing with used spare parts can operate more efficiently, reduce waste, and promote sustainability in the industry. In addition to promoting sustainability, we also see our platform playing a role in increasing the accessibility and affordability of used spare parts. LekoTech can help to expand the market for used spare parts by enabling businesses to sell their parts online and reach a wider audience. This can increase competition and drive down prices, making it more affordable for consumers to repair their vehicles and reduce the need for new parts.

Finally, can you talk about any exciting upcoming developments or projects that LekoTech has in the pipeline?

As each industrial revolution has brought new changes to master, the fourth industrial revolution brought about digitization and connectivity. However, as the fifth industrial revolution rapidly approaches, the need for intelligence is becoming increasingly important. Intelligence is now recognized as the driving force behind industry advancements, shaping and defining the future of the industry.

Our lab is currently working on ML, Artificial Intelligence & Blockchain We are creating, engineering, and developing services for the future.
Within Engineering and R&D, we reduce the time and cost to produce and develop the next generation of intelligent platforms.

Through the Star Venture programme, which is funded by the EBRD – European Bank for Reconstruction and Development we had the opportunity to complete an intensive business diagnostic workshop by the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM), University of Cambridge analyzed the priorities, strategies, and core operations. Decrease the time and cost of operations as well as increase productivity and quality.

Enhanced Machine Learning Capabilities: We are working on enhancing our machine learning capabilities to further automate the identification and categorization of used spare parts. This will enable users to identify parts more quickly and accurately, improving overall efficiency.
Integration with Blockchain Technology: We are exploring the use of blockchain technology for tracking and tracing the used spare parts, which can provide an added layer of security and transparency to the inventory management process.

We have the support of Swiss Seco Found, Albania Ministry of State and Entrepreneurs, and the EU for Innovation.

On March 15th, LekoTech participated in the WMF International Roadshow Albania. What was the aspect that you liked the most and what do you expect from participating in the WMF Italy in June?

We were excited to participate in the WMF International Roadshow Albania on March 15th and honored to win the second place. One aspect that we particularly liked about the event was the opportunity to showcase our SaaS platform to a new audience and receive feedback from the judges and other industry experts.

Looking ahead to our participation in the WMF Italy in June,  by attending the event, we can connect with potential customers and partners who are interested in our platform. Also, we believe that the event will provide an opportunity to network and build relationships with other players in the industry. This can help us to identify potential collaboration opportunities, and stay up-to-date with industry trends and advancements.

L'articolo LekoTech’s Digitization of Car Wreckers Industry Redefines Operations with Innovative Software Platform proviene da Albania Economia.

Minister Shalsi, your ministry is one of the most innovative in the European landscape. What are its specific responsibilities?

First of all, thank you for the opportunity to give this interview. I would not necessarily call it an innovative ministry, but rather an unusual or distinctive one. This is certainly due to the fact that, as a government, we are aware of the support that entrepreneurship needs, sometimes even from the institutions themselves.

The government has undertaken a series of profound reforms, including the crucial reform of the judicial system. Under these circumstances, while it may seem paradoxical that a government minister defends entrepreneurship against the government itself, the results speak for themselves: our work has resolved numerous issues and challenges, initiated processes, and suggested institutional, procedural, and legal changes.

In our daily work, we not only stay very close to businesses, but we also monitor and analyze all their complaints, requests, and suggestions addressed to public institutions, along with the nature of these grievances. By identifying these complaints, we realized that even seemingly minor issues can reveal a major problem affecting not just a single company but an entire sector. Therefore, no complaint goes unanswered.

With the construction and proper functioning of the judicial system, the further strengthening of other institutions, and the continuous improvement of the entrepreneurial climate in the country, we hope that in the near future this ministry can change its name from the Ministry for the Protection of Entrepreneurship to the Ministry for the Development of Entrepreneurship.

I imagine you collaborate with all foreign countries present in Albania. Which Italian organizations, however, do you interact with most?

The primary task of the Minister of State for the Protection of Entrepreneurs is to maintain constant contact with entrepreneurs. The Italian system—through the Italian Embassy in Tirana, Confindustria Albania, and the Italian Chamber of Commerce—is consistently involved in discussions, meetings, and work processes within the Ministry.

In my daily work, I hold a series of meetings with entrepreneurs both at my office and at their companies, as well as with trade associations. I have met a large number of Italian investors operating in Albania, visiting the environments where they carry out their activities.

I have a very special relationship with Confindustria Albania because when I first launched the call “Don’t just bring me the problems, but also your ideas on how they should be solved”, Confindustria was the first to respond. This association proposes and presents concrete solutions to the problems encountered by their member companies. Since it is not necessary to “knock on” the Ministry’s offices, the representatives of these associations are very present, and I have the opportunity to thank them for the suggestions, comments, and observations they sometimes present to us.

In your opinion, what are the most promising business opportunities for Italian companies looking to invest in Albania?

Italy is the leading foreign player in the Albanian market, and the figures speak for themselves. Italy and Albania, as two friendly and partner countries, maintain a very positive trade balance that grows day by day. This is demonstrated not only by the high number of Italian tourists visiting Albania each year, but above all by the increasing presence of Italian companies in the country.

Beyond its favorable geographic position, Albania offers many opportunities for foreign investors, including sustainable economic growth, incentives for strategic investors, a young and educated population, and competitive taxation.

Among the sectors prioritized for investment in Albania and of interest to Italian entrepreneurs, I can mention: energy, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, aquaculture, and innovation. The latter is attracting growing attention, as we aim to keep pace with European Union countries. Numerous new initiatives are contributing to this sector, creating tech hubs, innovation hubs, and new incubators to launch the innovation ecosystem.

As a Ministry, we have undertaken the initiative to draft legislation on incentives and the development of innovative start-ups, which should stimulate the innovation sector in Albania. Another important law is the “Distributed Ledger Technology-Based Financial Markets” bill (commonly known as the blockchain law), aimed at integrating Albania with cryptocurrency markets and regulating the digital market in the country, opening new avenues for our economy.

Do you think Italy could benefit from a Ministry dedicated to the Protection of Entrepreneurs? Would you recommend it to your Italian colleagues?

At first, when I introduced myself as Minister, I often encountered surprise from foreigners, since a ministry like mine does not exist in most other countries.

However, after numerous interactions with Italian entrepreneurs—explaining my daily work, visiting their companies, analyzing their challenges—most of them agree that a similar ministry would also be valuable in Italy.

It is important to understand that if a government is not in constant, close, and meaningful contact with the business community, and does not involve entrepreneurs in consultations or in addressing challenges, there is a high risk that the government’s initiatives will fail.

The exact name of such a ministry could vary, but the core principle—staying closely connected to the heartbeat of business—is a crucial factor in ensuring a government’s success.

L'articolo Minister Eduard Shalsi: welcome, Italy! proviene da Albania Economia.