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Welcome to the 3rd edition of

WESTERN BALKANS INNOVATION SUMMIT

15 May 2026

Western Balkans
Innovation Summit

Welcome to the 3rd edition of Western Balkans Innovation Summit, organized by Western Balkans University, Faculty of Economics, Technology & Innovation, a flagship event aimed at accelerating the region's digital transformation journey. The summit serves as a platform to bring together key stakeholders from academia, industry, government, and the startup ecosystem to exchange ideas, share insights, and collaborate on fostering innovation and embracing technological advancements. By facilitating knowledge sharing, inspiring collaboration, and encouraging the adoption of innovative technologies, the Western Balkans Innovation Summit aims to empower and ease the pathway of organizations and individuals toward the digital age and thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Organized by:

Faculty of Economics, Technology & Innovation
15 May
2026

09:30


Western Balkans University
Conference Hall

Highlights from WBIS 2nd Edition

Video to be confirmed

Innovation Summit Speakers

Meet the Speakers

Leading the Way with Knowledge & Experience

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Our agenda

Summit Agenda

Be inspired. Learn from Experts.

09:30 - 10:00

Registration

10:00 - 10:15

Welcome Notes, Opening Session
  • Prof. Ferdinand Gjana - President of Western Balkans University
  • Prof. Agim Mamuti - Dean of the Faculty of Economics, Technology & Innovation

10:15 - 12:30

Discussion Panel: "AI and Challenges in the Ecosystem"
  • Grant Van Cleve - Global Quake, but Tremendous Opportunity
  • Debabrata Samanta, Ph.D. - AI-Driven Innovations: Bridging Challenges and Opportunities in Emerging Ecosystems
  • Uranik Begu - AI and Digital Transformation of the Businesses
  • Josh Miekley - AI as a Catalyst to Grow
  • Bujar Bakiu - The Strategic Use of AI to Achieve Competitive Advantage: Exemplary Case Studies

12:30 - 12:40

Closing Remarks

12:40 - 13:00

Networking & Cocktail
Summit Venue location info

Summit Location

Conference Hall, Western Balkans University

  • Bar & Restaurant area
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Parking facilities
  • Audiovisual equipment available
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

The Innovation Summit brings together a diverse range of participants, all united by their passion for innovation and the pursuit of cutting-edge ideas. Among the attendees are innovators who have brought groundbreaking solutions to various industries, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Entrepreneurship enthusiasts, with their visionary minds and unwavering determination, join the summit to explore new avenues for business growth and disruptive ventures. Students, eager to learn and contribute, attend the summit to gain inspiration from established innovators and broaden their understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of technology and entrepreneurship. Academics, with their deep expertise and research-oriented mindset, share valuable insights and collaborate with fellow participants, fostering an environment of intellectual exchange. Policymakers attend to understand the latest trends and devise strategies that facilitate innovation and economic growth. Finally, tech addicts, always at the forefront of technological advancements, actively engage in the summit to discover emerging technologies and explore their potential applications in various domains. Together, these participants form a dynamic and vibrant community, united in their quest for innovation and driven to shape a better future.

During the innovation summit, the key topic of discussion will be AI and Challenges in the Ecosystem. Participants will explore the latest advancements in AI and its impact on various industries, including banking, healthcare, and finance. The discussion will also cover ethical and regulatory challenges, particularly concerning human rights in the digital era. Additionally, attendees will examine the barriers to AI adoption and the strategies needed to ensure responsible innovation. This theme highlights the transformative power of AI and the complexities organizations must navigate to leverage its full potential.

The Innovation Summit will be recorded. All interested parties can receive this recording after sending a request by email on [email protected].

The innovation summit provides ample networking opportunities for participants, recognizing the value of collaboration and fostering connections among like-minded individuals. During the discussion section or breaks, participants can mingle, exchange ideas, and establish connections with fellow innovators, entrepreneurs, students, academics, policymakers, and tech enthusiasts.

Reserve your Place

15 May 2026

Western Balkans University

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