27.05.2024

Salzburg Chamber of Commerce visits STIKK

STIKK hosted a delegation of businesses from Austria, led by the Salzburg Chamber of Commerce.
This visit focused on exploring collaboration opportunities between Kosovar IT companies and their Austrian counterparts.
During the meeting, we showcased the capabilities of our member companies and identified concrete areas for potential partnerships with businesses in Salzburg.
We’ve agreed to organize several joint events throughout the year! These events will facilitate direct connections between STIKK members and Austrian companies operating in Salzburg.
We were delighted to discover that two successful entrepreneurs in the Salzburg region, Shiqeri Emrllahu and Islam Islami, hail from Kosovo!

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Girls in ICT Week 2024

During the annual Week of Girls in ICT, held from April 22nd to 27th, 2024, DigiWomen Cluster Kosovo organized a series of events under STIKK to promote ICT careers for girls.

DigiWomen Cluster members visited 12 secondary schools across Mitrovica, Peje, Gjakove, Prizren, Ferizaj, Drenas, Podujeve, Gjilan, and Pristina, reaching a total of 410 girls. These interactive sessions showcased the real-world experiences of women in the ICT field, including the challenges, triumphs, and exciting opportunities in this dynamic sector.

The girls’ curiosity was ignited, leading to engaging discussions about potential careers in ICT, from technical roles to entrepreneurial ventures. These STIKK activities were made possible with the support of the EnInGeP Project.

The Tech Empowerment Marketplace: Women Leading Innovation, held on April 25, 2024, at Prishtina’s Tech Park, was a success. The event brought together 80 participants, including 45 women entrepreneurs, from across Kosovo’s diverse industries.

Vjollca Cavolli (STIKK) and Alex Albertine (USAID Kosovo) opened the event, highlighting the importance of women in technology. A panel discussion featured successful women entrepreneurs from nine different sectors. Vesa Morina, Doresa Kabashi, Vlora Gashi, Iliriana Ibraj, and Diora Binxhiu shared their experiences overcoming challenges. A roundtable discussion led by Artan Avdiu (USAID) focused on the digitalization challenges faced by women-owned businesses.

The highlight was the B2B meetings. These sessions connected 15 women-led ICT businesses (DigiWoman Cluster) with potential clients in the Wood and Food processing sectors. Over 40 meetings facilitated idea exchange and potential collaborations.

The event attracted more participants than anticipated. The marketplace provided a platform for women in ICT to showcase their solutions to new clients in different sectors.

The Tech Empowerment Marketplace fostered collaboration and economic empowerment for women entrepreneurs. It raised awareness of the important role women play in driving innovation. This event was a significant step towards a future where women are leaders in Kosovo’s technological advancements.

DigiWomen Cluster Kosovo remains dedicated to empowering women in technology, breaking down barriers, and fostering an inclusive future in the ICT industry. Together, we can create lasting change and shape a brighter tomorrow.

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18.04.2024

STIKK hosts workshop on Investment Readiness at Tech Park Prishtina

STIKK successfully hosted a workshop on Investment Readiness on April 17th at Prishtina Tech Park. The insightful session, led by international expert Mr. Keo Sar, provided information and practical tips for startups seeking investment.

The workshop catered to a group of 15 attendees, specifically staff from STIKK member companies and startups. This targeted approach ensured the content directly addressed the needs and challenges faced by our members.

Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the importance of investment and the optimal timing for seeking it. Mr. Sar equipped participants with the knowledge to identify the most suitable investment options for their specific startups. The workshop provided valuable insights on sourcing investors and preparing for successful investor meetings.

Mr. Keo Sar, with his extensive experience (over 12 years) in Fintech, Marketplace, and Services sectors, brought a wealth of knowledge to the table. His proven track record of building and scaling companies across various industries as a COO, CRO, Executive Director, and VP provided invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Overall, the Investment Readiness Workshop served as a valuable platform for STIKK member companies and startups to gain the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the investment landscape and secure funding for their ventures.

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STIKK 16th General Assembly Meeting

The Association of Information and Communication Technology of Kosovo (STIKK) held the 16th Meeting of the Assembly of Members, to discuss the association’s work in 2023 and outline plans for further increase in 2024.
The meeting focused on developments in the ICT sector in Kosovo during 2023, highlighting STIKK’s efforts in legislative advocacy and the operationalization of Tech Park Prishtina, a key initiative with tremendous potential for boosting the growth of the sector.

Key achievements:

• Fostering innovation and entrepreneurship – Events like the KosICT23 Festival brought together stakeholders, decision makers and experts to discuss trends, share best practices and showcase technological advances. In addition, STIKK facilitated the establishment of Tech Park Prishtina, providing a dedicated space for startups and fostering an environment conducive to innovation.
• Workforce Development – Through partnerships with local and international organizations, STIKK supported initiatives that equip the workforce with the skills and opportunities to thrive in the ICT sector.
• STIKK actively participated in the working groups for relevant laws and strategies, advocating for an ICT support stimulus package. Their involvement in the drafting of the Law on Innovation and Entrepreneurship and in the Kosovo Strategy for E-Government underlines STIKK’s commitment to shape policies that promote ICT growth.
• Expanding market access – By organizing international B2B activities, conferences and networking opportunities, STIKK opened doors for Kosovo ICT companies to explore sales opportunities in the global market.

The members approved the work plan for 2024, which has priority:

• Strengthening the legal framework for ICT businesses.
• Increasing access to financing for ICT companies.
• Increasing the sector’s identity and local potential in the international market.
• The full functionalization of Tech Park Prishtina as the main centre of ICT innovation and development in Kosovo.

To achieve these goals more effectively, the STIKK Assembly approved the renewal of membership packages, introducing new innovative services. These services aim to strengthen STIKK’s role in supporting the ICT ecosystem.

Changes in the Board of STIKK
After the elections held during the assembly, the STIKK Board welcomes new members:
Mr. Kristian Kabashi (Numarics)
Ms. Bardha Ajvazi (Brandfluence)

The updated composition of the board is as follows:
Chairman: Mr. Ermal Sadiku (Linkplus IT)
Vice President: Mrs. Zana Tabaku (Appdec)
Mr. Vigan Budima (ASEE from Asseco)
Mr. Fatos Gacaferri (Nettxio)
Mr. Faton Selishta (Kutia)
Mr. Alban Sahiti (Tenton)
Mr. Benjamin Kolenovic (Growzillas)
Mr. Kristian Kabashi (Numarics)
Ms. Bardha Ajvazi (Brandfluence)

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STIKK organizes “Achieving Business Outcomes with OKRs” training

Between 11 – 12 March, STIKK organized the “Achieving Business Outcomes with OKRs” training program!
Over two days, participants gained valuable skills in:

• Unifying Teams
• Setting Impactful Objectives
• Data-Driven Progress
• Strategic Innovation
• Multi-Level Management
• Continuous Improvement

The training delved into practical tools like Agendashift and Impact Mapping, empowering participants for effective OKR implementation.
The program was led by Ivaylo (Ivo) Gueorguiev and Violeta Kyurdyan, seasoned professionals with over 20 years of experience in various fields, including IT, Fintech, and program/project management.
Participants received valuable certificates from both Agendashift Academy and European Software Institute – Center Eastern Europe. This training was supported by the German government, through GIZ Kosovo.

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25.02.2024

STIKK Partners with EnInGeP to Empower Women in Kosovo’s ICT Sector

STIKK signed the partnership agreement with the Enabling Income Generation for the Poor (EnInGeP) project. This collaboration focuses on three key objectives aimed at advancing the role of women in Kosovo’s information and communication technology (ICT) sector.

Fostering Collaboration and Growth

The partnership will establish a platform for networking and collaboration between women-owned ICT businesses in Kosovo and their counterparts in Austria. This initiative will facilitate the creation of new business opportunities and partnerships, fostering the growth of women-led enterprises in the ICT field.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Tech Leaders

Encouraging girls’ participation in the ICT sector is another crucial aspect of this partnership. By igniting a passion for technology among young women, STIKK and EnInGeP aim to empower the next generation of female tech leaders in Kosovo.

Supporting Career Development

The partnership will provide valuable support for girls with a passion for technology. Through dedicated programs and initiatives, STIKK and EnInGeP will help them develop their technical skills and navigate successful career paths within the ICT industry.

Building a More Inclusive ICT Landscape

STIKK and EnInGeP share a vision of a future where women actively contribute to shaping and driving Kosovo’s ICT sector. This partnership represents a significant step towards achieving this goal and promoting greater gender equality within the industry.

About the EnInGeP Project

The EnInGeP project is funded by the Austrian Development Agency and implemented by CARE International and ECIKS. It addresses critical challenges faced by Kosovo’s private sector, with a focus on job creation, improved access to finance, and reducing gender inequalities.

STIKK is committed to working alongside EnInGeP to build a more inclusive and prosperous ICT sector in Kosovo. We look forward to sharing further developments on this exciting partnership in the future.

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20.02.2024

The DigiWomen Cluster Kosovo kicks off its 2024 activities at TechPark Prishtina

The DigiWomen Cluster Kosovo, a dynamic initiative fostering female leadership in the ICT sector, kicked off its 2024 activities at TechPark Prishtina, bringing together a vibrant network of women entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts.

The meeting served as a platform to unveil exciting upcoming initiatives specifically designed to empower women within the Kosovan ICT landscape. These initiatives will focus on three key pillars:

• Cultivating a New Generation of Women Entrepreneurs:
• Empowering Existing Women-Led Businesses:
• Fostering Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:

STIKK through the DigiWomen Cluster Kosovo is committed to providing women with the resources and support needed to thrive in the ever-evolving world of technology.

Stay tuned for more updates!  We will be sharing further details about upcoming programs and workshops designed to empower and celebrate women driving innovation in Kosovo’s ICT sector.

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27.01.2024

STIKK Internship Project Empowers Young Professionals in the ICT Sector

STIKK’s dynamic internship initiative has successfully onboarded 30 interns across 14 esteemed member companies. Supported by GIZ, STIKK proudly inaugurated its Internship Program, designed to furnish aspiring professionals with hands-on experience within the ever-evolving ICT landscape.

Through this pioneering endeavor, member companies of STIKK have seized the opportunity to enhance their operational capabilities by enlisting talented interns across a spectrum of disciplines including programming, software engineering, marketing, finance, and human resources.

STIKK’s Internship Project offers a three-month paid engagement within member companies, with financial coverage for two months facilitated by the project itself. This unique approach streamlines the onboarding process for companies, ensuring a seamless integration of much-needed talent into their workforce.

The internship program included seventeen women and thirteen men, promoting gender inclusion in the ICT sector. The program successfully bridged the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, with nineteen interns securing regular employment contracts after their internships. This outcome significantly contributed to reducing unemployment and enhancing the skill set of the local workforce.

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Tech Park Welcomes First 18 Start-ups: Tenancy Contracts Signed in Milestone Moment for STAR UP Project

Excitement reverberates through the tech community as the STAR UP project, backed by the European Union in Kosovo and executed by STIKK – Kosovo ICT Association, announces a significant milestone. The official signing of tenancy contracts between STIKK and the first 18 outstanding start-ups marks the commencement of a groundbreaking journey where innovation seamlessly merges with opportunity.

The Tenancy Contracts grant these start-ups exclusive access to the cutting-edge facilities of TechPark, securing their place in a dynamic coworking area that serves as the epicenter for collaborative endeavors. However, this collaboration is not just about physical space; it is a gateway to a world of possibilities for these entrepreneurs.

The partnership brings forth a plethora of benefits, propelling the start-ups into a realm of growth and success. From tailored training programs and expert mentorship to strategic consultancy and international exposure at tech events, the STAR UP project is shaping up to be a comprehensive initiative dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurial success.

Key advantages of this collaboration include B2B networking opportunities, support to access EU markets, export services, and goods, along with access to grants for innovation and growth. It’s not just a program; it’s a transformative experience designed to empower and propel these start-ups to new heights.

As the STAR UP project unfolds within the walls of TechPark, the tech community eagerly anticipates the success stories that will undoubtedly emerge from this nexus of innovation and collaboration. The support from the European Union in Kosovo and the implementation prowess of STIKK have created an environment ripe for groundbreaking achievements.

Cheers to innovation, collaboration, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for these 18 start-ups. The STAR UP project is set to redefine the landscape of entrepreneurship in Kosovo, providing a springboard for these ambitious ventures to thrive and make their mark on the global stage.

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The 12th edition of KosICT Technology Festival, a celebration of innovation and collaboration

The 12th edition of the KosICT Technology Festival, held at the vibrant Klan Arena in Prishtina on October 13-14, 2023, was a resounding success, leaving an indelible mark on the world of technology and innovation. With a diverse and engaging program, the festival boasted a total of 12 captivating sessions on the Main Stage, further enriched by 9 Dev Stage sessions and an inspiring glimpse into the future with the “Future Developers” presentation.

The event commenced with a set of inspiring Opening Remarks delivered by a lineup of distinguished speakers. Mr. Ermal Sadiku, Chairman of STIKK Board, set the stage by emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in fostering innovation, economic growth, and sustainability. H.E. Albin Kurti, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, added to the discourse by sharing his insights on the transformative power of technology. H.E. Artane Rizvanolli, the Minister of Economy, joined the conversation, highlighting the importance of collaboration and innovation. Lastly, Mr. Përparim Rama, Mayor of Prishtina, underlined the potential for technology to drive positive change in the city and beyond. These Opening Remarks left a resounding impact, underscoring the event’s central theme of collaboration, innovation, and the remarkable potential that technology holds in the contemporary world.

The event was more than just discussions and presentations; it was a dynamic convergence of minds, offering thrilling entertainment through 2 e-sports tournaments that showcased the gaming prowess of the participants. A significant highlight of the festival was the presence of numerous companies and startups that brought their innovative ideas to the forefront.

Main Themes and Topics

The 12th KosICT Technology Festival provided a rich tapestry of discussions and activities. The Main Stage sessions delved into topics ranging from the practical applications of generative AI in the real world, challenges and opportunities in banking services, unmasking cyber threats, the role of tech leads in an AI-driven world, the fine balance between startup culture and corporate structure, mastering data management, and navigating the future of digital transformation. These sessions featured distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and insights, creating a melting pot of knowledge and ideas.

Participation and Collaboration

The festival fostered a spirit of collaboration and exploration, evidenced by the Trailblazers Fair, featuring 18 prominent companies that have made significant contributions to the local ICT industry. The Innovation Fair introduced 14 dynamic startups, offering a glimpse into the future of technology and entrepreneurship. These events highlighted the spirit of innovation that drives the tech community.

Business Opportunities

The festival also provided an invaluable platform for B2B meetings, with the Business Lounge facilitating an impressive 150 meetings during the Brokerage Event. These interactions were instrumental in forging partnerships, collaborations, and investment opportunities.

Nurturing the Next Generation

Beyond the conventional events, the festival extended its influence by organizing a special workshop on AI designed for children. This heartwarming initiative aimed to nurture the next generation of tech enthusiasts and innovators.

Incredible Lineup of Speakers

In terms of numbers, the festival attracted around 3,000 eager participants, who had the privilege of engaging with 30 distinguished speakers, including 13 local, 4 from the diaspora, and 13 foreign experts from 10 different countries. These vibrant discussions and exchanges were made possible through the support of 20 sponsors and 6 partners, who shared the festival’s vision.

A Celebration of Collaboration and Innovation

The 12th KosICT Technology Festival was an extraordinary success, embodying the spirit of technology, collaboration, and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. It was a celebration of excellence, a platform for knowledge exchange, and a testament to the bright future of technology. As the festival concluded, it left a trail of inspiration and possibilities in its wake, underlining the remarkable potential that technology holds in today’s ever-evolving world. The 12th edition of KosICT was more than just an event; it was a gateway to the future, where technology and innovation reign supreme.

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