Eight bold innovations shaping Kosovo’s future

After months of mobilisation across a vibrant ecosystem and a rigorous selection process, eight groundbreaking projects led by Kosovo-based enterprises have been awarded support through the Luxembourg Challenge Fund (LCF) and the Luxembourg Demonstration Fund (LDF). Launched in late 2024 with a budget of more than EUR 1.5 million, this initiative by the Luxembourg Cooperation aims to help Kosovar businesses tackle long-standing challenges in manufacturing and beyond.

Driving Innovation Through Co-Financing

The two funds provide co-financing at different levels, enabling companies at various stages of growth to bring their innovations further. The call for proposals targeted enterprises working on solutions in circularity, digitalisation, or specialisation in manufacturing, as well as new approaches to expanding access to education, healthcare, or mobility services. Depending on the fund and the maturity of the solution, selected businesses could secure between EUR 50,000 and EUR 350,000 in co-financing. To qualify, each project needed to deliver measurable, positive results—improving quality of life and contributing to wider social and economic benefits.

A highly competitive call

The open call sparked enormous interest: nearly 750 applications were opened, with 183 fully completed and submitted. Out of these, 19 candidates were shortlisted—ten for the LDF and nine for the LCF.

In April, the shortlisted businesses pitched their solutions before a preselection committee comprising representatives from the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, Defence, Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, the Kosovo Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship and Trade (MIET), the Kosovo Credit Guarantee Fund (KCGF), and LuxDev.

Following an additional round of due diligence, including on-site visits, 14 candidates were invited to pitch once again during the summer. Finally, eight winners emerged: four supported by the LCF and four by the LDF.

Eight winners, one shared vision

The selected enterprises represent diverse sectors but share a common ambition: to build a more innovative, sustainable, and resilient Kosovo. Their projects address pressing challenges—from smarter manufacturing and greener solutions to better access to essential services:

Congratulations to all eight winners — and a heartfelt thank you to every partner who played a role in this journey. These projects are more than business ventures; they are catalysts for change, driving innovation and resilience across Kosovo. Discover the innovations in this video.