KosICT 2025 wraps its 14th edition

The 14th edition of KosICT – Kosovo’s flagship technology festival, powered by STIKK, closed after two intensive days at Tech Park Prishtina with 2,798 registered participants, 208 companies represented, 47 speakers across 22 sessions (14 Main Stage, 8 Developers Stage), 40 exhibitors, and a Future Developers Corner featuring 50 children aged 6–15 learning coding and robotics. Around 20% of attendees were C-level executives, signaling growing demand for practical content, credible partners, and investable opportunities in Kosovo’s tech ecosystem.

The festival opened the OctoberTech Kosova season, a nationwide umbrella for innovation supported by public and private partners, and featured high-level participation including Vjosa Osmani, President of the Republic of Kosovo, alongside national and international stakeholders. Across two stages, the program connected strategy to execution: from AI-driven skills and founder scale-ups to secure cloud communications, municipal digitalization, applied QA for AI systems, and leadership designed for growth.

On the Main Stage, Coursera’s Andy Poole framed skills as the economy’s new currency in the age of AI; Krenar Komoni (Tive) translated founder lessons into operator discipline; WithSecure Intelligence’s Paolo Palumbo mapped the dual-use security reality of AI; and Rachel Mooney (RMM People) distilled two decades of people leadership into decision-rights and feedback systems that compound execution. An EBRD-supported masterclass with Robert Garcia (former CEO, Resonate) explored how leaders scale and then deliberately hand off—structuring ownership, making processes legible, and ensuring customers recognize the product more than the personality. UNDP Kosovo supported a greentech conversation moderated by Louise Skärvall (BOOST), with PI Labs, Electric Mobility, and the Municipality of Prishtina discussing outcome-based procurement, interoperable data, and pilot ownership that residents can feel.

The Developers Stage stayed close to code and delivery. Ericsson Nikola Tesla examined where ML truly helps in embedded systems; CloudAstro unpacked real-world DevOps pipelines; LuxDev convened employers and educators on dual-VET pathways; the Embassy of Finland and Finnpartnership mapped Kosovo–Finland collaboration in private 5G and cybersecurity; Ligna Energy presented ultra-thin, greener power for ambient IoT; ISA Robotics bridged heritage and mechatronics; HERCyber and the British Council pushed privacy-by-design and threat-modeling into daily routines; and ScanwAi Oy reminded teams that clear communication and sales turn technology into business.

Investment flowed in parallel to content. In an EBRD-supported Investors Pitch, nine startups presented to a six-member panel; €50,000 was committed by Krenar Komoni, divided equally among five teams—Foton, Planomate, Me Zemër, Kosova Global Talent Center, and Hamatics—rewarding product clarity, evidence of demand, and execution capacity. Deal-making extended beyond the stage through a hybrid B2B Matchmaking format, powered by the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) Kosovo, where 40 companies coordinated online and on-site meetings via the b2match platform to scope pilots, integrations, distribution, and co-development.

On the exhibition floor, Trailblazers and Innovation Fairs brought 40 exhibitors into a working marketplace of short demos and fast follow-ups, linking discovery to concrete next steps. The Future Developers Corner showcased 50 children from schools and academies who learn coding and robotics from an early age; their projects and Main Stage appearance offered a glimpse of the pipeline already forming beneath today’s teams. Community energy carried into the eSports Showdown, where eight corporate teams competed in Counter-Strike 2.0 and FIFA; Mikena Global took the trophy, while a professional 1v1 League of Legends tournament organized by Xportal and supported by Red Bull Kosova added a competitive edge with a charitable purpose.

“KosICT exists to convert attention into outcomes—skills into jobs, demos into pilots, and stage time into capital,” said Burbuqe Hashimi, Chairwoman of the STIKK Board. “This year’s edition proved again that Kosovo can host world-class conversations while moving real deals forward.” Vjollca Çavolli, Executive Director of STIKK, added: “The collaboration across government, donors, investors, and companies is what makes OctoberTech Kosova special. We’re proud that KosICT continues to be the operating system for those partnerships.”

About KosICT

Founded in 2011 and curated by STIKK (Kosovo ICT Association), KosICT is the country’s leading technology festival, bringing together founders, engineers, investors, policymakers, educators, and students to advance the digital economy. The festival blends high-level talks with hands-on tracks, exhibitions, B2B matchmaking, and community activations.

About STIKK

STIKK – Kosovo ICT Association is the umbrella organization for Kosovo’s ICT industry, representing 120+ member companies. STIKK promotes sector growth through advocacy, capacity building, market access, research, and the production of Kosovo’s flagship tech events.

Public Call for Expressions of Interest – Operator of the TechPark Prishtina Canteen

The Kosovo ICT Association (STIKK) invites qualified businesses and entrepreneurs to submit proposals to operate the fully equipped canteen located at TechPark Prishtina.

The canteen premises are newly furnished and fitted with professional kitchen equipment and furniture. This investment was made possible through the project “Fostering Innovation and Sustainable Digital Growth in Kosovo,” funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev – Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency, in cooperation with STIKK.

About TechPark Prishtina

TechPark Prishtina is a modern, 4,000 m² facility with a capacity of approximately 400 people. It provides offices, shared workspaces, and conference rooms, and regularly hosts major technology events. The selected operator will also have the exclusive opportunity to provide catering services for events hosted at TechPark Prishtina.

More information: https://www.techpark-prishtina.com/

Scope of Services

⋅ The future operator is expected to:

⋅ Provide daily canteen services for tenants, visitors, and event participants (hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages).

⋅ Ensure consistent quality, affordability, and timely service.

⋅ Maintain the premises, equipment, and furnishings in good working and sanitary condition.

⋅ Comply with all applicable food safety, hygiene, labor, and fiscal regulations in Kosovo.

⋅ Propose and agree operating hours with TechPark Prishtina management, aligned to tenant and event needs.

⋅ Eligibility & Minimum Requirements

Applicants should:

⋅ Be a legally registered business capable of operating food service/catering services in Kosovo.

⋅ Demonstrate relevant experience in canteen, restaurant, or event catering operations.

⋅ Have the financial and operational capacity (staffing, supply chain, and quality control systems) to meet the scope.

⋅ Commit to food safety and hygiene standards, including staff training and certification where applicable.

Submission method: Interested parties must book a visit to the canteen at Tech Park Prishtina by email: [email protected] or call at: +38349709989

Visiting hours: Weekdays, 10:00–12:00 and 13:00–16:00.

Call open until: 30 September 2025.

Call for Application – External Expert for Final Evaluation of the STAR UP Project

The STAR UP project, funded by the European Union and implemented by STIKK (Kosovo ICT Association), was launched with the aim of strengthening Kosovo’s digital innovation ecosystem by supporting the growth and development of ICT start-ups. Through a combination of infrastructural investments, tailored support services, and internationalization efforts, the project has worked to enhance the competitiveness of start-ups and create a more enabling environment for entrepreneurship in the ICT sector.

Over its implementation period, the project has focused on empowering start-ups with the tools, knowledge, and opportunities needed to scale their operations, improve their market readiness, and build sustainable business models. Special emphasis has been placed on inclusion, access to funding, capacity building, and connectivity with regional and EU markets.

As the project approaches its conclusion in August 2025, STIKK is seeking to commission a final external evaluation. This evaluation will assess the overall performance and impact of the project, provide an independent review of its achievements and challenges, and deliver key insights and recommendations for future programming and policy development in support of Kosovo’s innovation ecosystem.

Scope of the Assignment

STIKK seeks a qualified external Expert to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of the STAR UP project, with the following core focus areas:

Review of project relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, sustainability, and impact;
Assessment of the implementation of the Logical Framework, especially indicators and targets;
Review of acceleration services, mentorship, and seed funding scheme;
Evaluation of the project’s visibility, stakeholder engagement, and inclusion of women-led start-ups;
Review of alignment with EU visibility guidelines and value for money;
Identification of lessons learned and strategic recommendations for follow-up programming

For more information on the terms of reference, click the link below:

Terms of References (ToR) TOR/07-2025

Call for Application – Expert Engagement for Development and Implementation of Membership Growth and Ensure the Sustainability of Dual VET in ICT sector

The Kosovo Association of Information and Communication Technology (STIKK) is the leading representative organization of Kosovo’s ICT sector. STIKK serves as a bridge between the private sector, educational institutions, and public stakeholders to foster innovation, workforce development, and sustainable digital growth in Kosovo.

Within the framework of the “Skills for Sustainable Jobs in Kosovo” project, which is funded by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and implemented by LuxDev in Partnership with STIKK, we are implementing a wide range of activities to strengthen the Dual Vocational Education and Training (Dual VET) system in the ICT sector. The project’s fourth result area focuses on ensuring the sustainability and long-term institutionalization of Dual VET in Kosovo through structured engagement with private sector actors.

As part of this effort, Activity 4.1 focuses on developing and implementing a strategic approach to expand STIKK’s membership and strengthen the foundation for ongoing cooperation between businesses and vocational education institutions. Increasing the number of engaged member companies is essential to ensure continuity of Dual VET programs and the availability of practical training opportunities for students.

The strategy to be developed through this assignment will aim to clearly define the value proposition of STIKK membership, promote the benefits of participation in Dual VET, and align member engagement with broader sectoral goals such as improving workforce readiness, closing the skills gap, and enhancing Kosovo’s competitiveness in the ICT sector. Furthermore, the strategy will lay the groundwork for a sustainable collaboration model that is supported by a growing and committed network of ICT companies actively contributing to education and skills development.

Scope of the Assignment

STIKK seeks to engage a qualified individual expert to develop and help initiate the implementation of a Membership Growth and Dual VET Sustainability Strategy. The expert will conduct internal and external analysis, consult stakeholders, define strategic objectives, and design a clear operational and implementation structure to ensure that the Dual VET system is sustainable and embedded within the ICT sector through strong company involvement.

For more information on the terms of reference, click the link below:

Terms of References (ToR) TOR/LD/03-2025

TOR – Conducting the Annual Skills Gap Analysis – Kosovo ICT Barometer (2023 & 2024), including Dual VET Focus

The Kosovo Association of Information and Communication Technology (STIKK) is the implementing entity of the KSV/021 – Skills for Sustainable Jobs in Kosovo project, funded by LuxDev. As part of this initiative, Activity 4.4 aims to conduct a comprehensive annual skills gap analysis through the Kosovo IT Barometer, now expanded to include a new focus on Dual Vocational Education and Training (Dual VET) in Kosovo’s ICT sector.

The Kosovo IT Barometer has been conducted annually by STIKK since 2014 and is a key tool for assessing export capacity, workforce trends, and sectoral challenges within the ICT industry. This year, the 2025 edition will cover developments in both 2023 and 2024, and will include a dedicated section on the implementation, awareness, and impact of Dual VET across the private ICT sector.

Scope of the Assignment

STIKK seeks to engage a qualified research company or consulting team to design, conduct, and analyse the 2023 & 2024 Skills Gap IT Barometer, integrating both traditional ICT market insights and a new Dual VET thematic focus.

For more information on the terms of reference, click the link below:

Terms of References (ToR) TOR/LD/02-2025

ATIK submits to political parties the proposal for the development of the ICT sector in Kosovo

The Alliance of Tech Parks and Incubators of Kosovo (ATIK) has submitted a comprehensive document with proposals for the development of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Entrepreneurship and Innovation sector to all political parties of the Republic of Kosovo competing in the parliamentary elections in February 2025.

ATIK emphasizes that this strategic step aims to engage policymakers to include the ICT sector as a key priority in their electoral and governing programs.

The submitted document contains recommendations in four essential areas:

Legal Reform: Improving existing legislation and drafting new laws to support innovation.

Government Support: Establishing a Ministry of Technology and creating the role of CTO within the government.

Financial Support: Creating an Independent Development Fund for ICT enterprises and financing Tech Parks and Incubators.

Education and Workforce Development: Advancement of education programs in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and implementation of DUAL VET programs to connect the labour market with education.

ATIK members: TechPark Prishtina, Innovation and Training Park (ITP) Prizren, VentureUP – University of Prishtina Venture Incubator, Innovation Centre Kosovo (ICK), Innovation Center Jakova (JIC), Kosovo Innovation Hub, Makerspace Innovation Center Prizren, Kamenicë Technology Park, Graçanica Innovation Center.

ATIK, representing these nine important innovation and technology centres in Kosovo, expresses its readiness for close cooperation with policymakers to bring positive changes in this sector.

The full document with proposals for the development of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Entrepreneurship and Innovation sector can be found at the following link:

https://stikk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Rekomandimet-për-Zhvillimin-e-Sektorit-të-TIK-ut-Ndermarrësisë-dhe-Inovacioionit-në-Kosovë.pdf

The EU Ambassador Visits STIKK and Tech Park Prishtina

STIKK had the pleasure of welcoming the European Union Ambassador to Kosovo, Mr. Aivo Orav, to our premises at TechPark Prishtina . During this visit, the ambassador had the opportunity to learn more about the work and successes of startups participating in the StarUp project, funded by the European Union in Kosovo and implemented by STIKK.

The startups presented their ideas to the ambassador and shared how the EU support has impacted the development of their ideas and strengthened their market position.

In a meeting with STIKK representatives, the ambassador was also introduced to our role and activities in advancing the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in Kosovo, as well as the extraordinary potential of our companies in this field.

Collaboration with the European Union is essential for supporting initiatives that empower the private sector and promote economic development in our country. We thank Ambassador Orav and the EU for their commitment as strategic partners in supporting key sectors of Kosovo’s economy.

KosICT 2024: A Resounding Success with Innovation, Inspiration, and Global Collaboration

Prishtina, October 13, 2024 – The 13th edition of the KosICT Technology Festival has come to a close, marking yet another milestone for Kosovo’s tech industry. Held at Tech Park Prishtina on October 11-12, the event surpassed expectations, bringing together global experts, industry leaders, startups, and tech enthusiasts for two days of knowledge-sharing, networking, and innovation. With over 3,000 participants, 104 companies represented, and speakers from 15 different countries, KosICT 2024 cemented itself as a premier technology event in the region.

A Dynamic Platform for Global Perspectives

This year’s festival featured 30 distinguished speakers across both the Main and Developers’ Stages, offering insights into the latest technological trends and challenges. With 9 keynotes, 1 panel discussion, 6 fireside chats, and 1 presentation on the Main Stage, and 3 presentations, 1 panel discussion, and 4 workshops on the Developers Stage, the event provided diverse content that catered to various interests and sectors.

Among the highlights were the keynote from Dex Hunter-Torricke, Head of Global Communications & Marketing at Google DeepMind, who spoke about navigating the decade of technological revolution, and the fireside chat with Oskari Pétas, Co-founder of Wolt, detailing the startup’s journey to a €7 billion acquisition by DoorDash. Sabine Singer, a pioneer in Value-Based Engineering, also moderated a key session on public policy and technology with Përparim Rama, Mayor of Prishtina, offering valuable insights into the city’s future growth and digital transformation.

Innovation and Startups Shine

The Innovation Fair provided a platform for 11 groundbreaking startups to showcase their solutions to investors, tech enthusiasts, and potential clients. Supported by the EU-funded Startup project and implemented by STIKK, the fair highlighted how these early-stage companies are leveraging innovation to disrupt industries ranging from virtual reality to peer-to-peer car-sharing platforms. Among the startups were The Lobby Boy, TERMINI, LABVR, and SPARE, each bringing fresh perspectives and inventive solutions to the table.

On the other side of the venue, the Trailblazers Fair featured 11 established companies, including ProCredit Bank, IPKO, Ericsson, and Nettxio, showcasing their innovative products and services. This fair offered attendees a glimpse into the leading-edge technologies driving industry transformation in Kosovo and beyond.

Future Developers Corner: Fostering Tomorrow’s Innovators

One of the most inspiring elements of KosICT 2024 was the Future Developers Corner, where 30 young prodigies, aged 8-16, demonstrated their coding and tech skills. Representing schools such as Finnish School, J-Coders, and Algorithmics, these future developers presented projects ranging from games and web applications to robotics and hardware solutions, captivating attendees with their creativity and passion.

A Hub for Networking and Collaboration

The festival also served as a networking powerhouse with its B2B Brokerage Event. Over 150 B2B meetings took place across two days, providing a unique opportunity for companies to connect and explore potential partnerships. Day one featured an international B2B event organized under the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN), where 30 local and foreign companies participated. On the second day, a cross-sectoral B2B event focused on women-owned businesses, organized by STIKK in collaboration with DigiWomen Cluster Kosovo and USAID Kosovo Compete Activity.

KosICT eSports Showdown

The eSports Showdown returned to KosICT with two thrilling tournaments. The first was a charity Counter-Strike competition between companies, which culminated in a final between Starlabs and Telos Labs, with Starlabs emerging as the winner. The second tournament, a professional Dota 2 showdown, saw 8 competitive teams battle for glory, with BLINK taking home the top prize.

An Unforgettable Pre-Event Reception

One day before the festival officially kicked off, KosICT hosted an exclusive reception for speakers, STIKK members, and special guests. Co-hosted by Advantage Austria at Hotel Prishtina, the reception provided a relaxed and informal setting for attendees to connect, network, and build relationships ahead of the main event.

A New Era with OctoberTech Kosova

KosICT 2024 also served as the opening event for OctoberTech Kosova, a new initiative supported by the Office of the Prime Minister of Kosovo. This initiative brings together Kosovo’s most prominent digital technology events, including DOKU.TECH and GrowthTank, creating a dynamic platform for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing.

Looking Ahead

As the 13th edition of KosICT concludes, the success of this year’s event highlights the ever-growing importance of the tech industry in Kosovo and the region. With world-class speakers, impactful discussions, and groundbreaking innovations, KosICT continues to serve as a platform where technology meets business, and ideas meet opportunity. We look forward to seeing what the next edition will bring, as KosICT continues to set new benchmarks for tech festivals in the Balkans and beyond.

For more information, visit the KosICT website or follow us on our social media platforms.

KosICT 2024 – Kosovo’s Leading Technology Event Returns for its 13th Edition

Prishtina, October 11-12, 2024 – The highly anticipated 13th edition of the KosICT Technology Festival will take place at Tech Park Prishtina. This year’s event promises to be bigger and more impactful than ever, featuring cutting-edge discussions, high-level speakers, and companies showcasing the best in global technology.

With a packed agenda that includes 17 sessions on the Main Stage and 8 sessions on the Developers Stage, the festival will host 30 speakers, 23 of whom are international, representing some of the most renowned companies and innovation hubs in the world. Among the speakers are representatives from Google DeepMind, Camunda, Emerging Europe, and Wolt, who will bring insights on the latest trends in Artificial Intelligence, process automation, entrepreneurial leadership, and digital transformation.

Additional Events at KosICT 2024:

The Trailblazers Fair – Featuring 10 companies presenting innovative products and solutions.
The Innovation Fair – Showcasing 11 startups, offering participants a chance to explore the future of innovation in technology.
Future Developers Corner – A unique space for 30 young tech geniuses, aged 8-16, to demonstrate their skills in coding and technology.
International B2B Brokerage Event – A networking platform for 50 companies from around the world, facilitating key business connections.
eSports Showdown – An exciting eSports competition with two tournaments, one for charity and one professional.

A Global Perspective on Technology and Innovation KosICT 2024 is set to establish new standards in the world of tech conferences in the region, featuring futuristic keynotes, fireside chats, and panel discussions. Prime Minister Albin Kurti will officially open KosICT on the Main Stage with the keynote address. One of the most anticipated sessions includes a keynote by Dex Hunter-Torricke, Head of Communications at Google Deep Mind, who will share insights on navigating the decade of technological revolution. Additionally, a Fireside Chat with Oskari Pétas, Co-founder of Wolt, will explore the company’s journey from startup to its €7 billion acquisition.

The Mayor of Prishtina, Përparim Rama, will also take the Main Stage in a special session titled “Transforming Prishtina: From Complicated to Complex,” moderated by the world pioneer in Value-Based Engineering, Sabine Singer.

OctoberTech Kosova – A New Initiative KosICT 2024 will serve as the official opening event for OctoberTech Kosova, a new initiative consolidating the most important digital technology events in Kosovo, including KosICT, DOKU.TECH, and GrowthTank. Supported by the Office of the Prime Minister of Kosovo, this initiative aims to provide a dynamic platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation in digital technology.

A Global Platform for Investors and Startups This year’s festival is expected to host the largest-ever participation of foreign investors and venture capitalists, with attendees from Finland, the USA, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and beyond. The Investors Pitch session, scheduled for October 11 at 15:00, will offer startups a unique opportunity to present their innovative ideas to global investors.

About KosICT 2024 The KosICT Technology Festival is Kosovo’s premier technology event, bringing together experts, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to explore the future of technology and its impact on business, society, and the global economy. The event is organized by STIKK, with ProCredit Bank Kosova as the general sponsor.

For more information about the event, visit the KosICT website or follow us on our social media platforms.

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KosICT 2025 wraps its 14th edition

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