Call for Applications: Western Balkan Accelerator Program Opens for Startups in Kosovo and North Macedonia
Early-stage B2B startups from Kosovo and North Macedonia can now apply for the Western Balkan Accelerator Program, a 14-week hybrid accelerator by Startup Wise Guys, supported by EBRD and Swiss EP, in collaboration with STIKK and regional ecosystem partners.
Applications are now open for the Western Balkan Accelerator Program, a new accelerator initiative designed to support early-stage B2B startups from Kosovo and North Macedonia.
The program is run by Startup Wise Guys, one of the most active early-stage VC funds and accelerator operators in the Baltic region and Central and Eastern Europe, with the support of EBRD and Swiss EP, and in collaboration with ecosystem partners including STIKK, Makerspace Innovation Center Prizren, and Zephyr Angels.
For Kosovo’s startup ecosystem, this is an important development. Access to structured acceleration, international mentorship, investor readiness support, and early-stage capital remains one of the key needs for founders who are building beyond the idea stage. Through this program, part of that support is coming closer to local teams, with in-person activities also taking place in Prishtina.
Who should apply?
The Western Balkan Accelerator Program is designed for early-stage B2B startups from Kosovo and North Macedonia, or teams planning to establish themselves in these markets.
The program is especially relevant for startups that already have:
- – at least an MVP;
- – early users, pilots, LOIs, or first paying customers;
- – a B2B product or service with growth potential;
- – ambition to expand beyond the local market.
The main focus areas include SaaS & AI, cybersecurity, sustainability, fintech, and other B2B digital solutions for different industries.
What does the program offer?
The program will run for 14 weeks in a hybrid format, combining online sessions with in-person bootcamps in Prishtina and Skopje.
Selected startups will receive practical support in areas that are critical for early-stage growth, including:
- – go-to-market strategy;
- – sales and business development;
- – product development;
- – fundraising;
- – legal readiness;
- – investor readiness;
- – partnerships and scaling.
Participants will also gain access to mentors, founders, operators, investors, and the wider Startup Wise Guys international network.
Selected startups will have the opportunity to be considered for initial investment of up to €50,000, with potential follow-on investment of up to €250,000.
A program that helps startups become investment-ready
The program is not only for startups that already feel fully ready for investment. It is designed to help promising teams strengthen their business, clarify their growth model, and prepare for serious conversations with investors.
If your startup has moved beyond the idea stage and is already testing the market, this program can help you understand where you stand, what needs to improve, and how to prepare for the next stage of growth.
Application deadline
Applications are open until May 18.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early applications are encouraged.
Apply here:
https://airtable.com/app21MYqwW64bMEYJ/pagSnYigPrCWXvgT8/form
For more information, please contact:
[email protected]
