Balkonnect Festival 2026 - B2B Matchmaking Event
DAY 2 – Green, Infrastructure & Digital Economy
Morning Session: Renewables & Green Growth in the Western Balkans
A pragmatic, investment-driven discussion on renewable energy deployment, grid readiness, permitting challenges, and financing structures. Thematic cubes and exhibitions focus on:
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Renewable energy
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Green buildings and energy efficiency
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Circular economy solutions for SMEs
Midday Session: Infrastructure Investment
Integrated infrastructure investments supporting urban development and tourism competitiveness. Topics include:
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Urban regeneration and place-making
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Tourism-supporting infrastructure (airports, roads, utilities)
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Energy distribution, mobility systems, and smart transport
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Circular infrastructure and waste management
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Financing models and implementation challenges
Afternoon Session: Digital Economy & Banking
This session explores trust as the foundation of the digital economy, addressing:
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Digital identity and cybersecurity
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Regulatory compliance
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Fintech and open banking in Southeast Europe
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SaaS and digital export potential from the Western Balkans
Parallel Sessions
Masterclasses
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Investors’ Masterclass: “What Do Investors Invest In?”
Led by Baybars Altuntaş, Chairman of WBAF -
e-Wallet Masterclass: “How the European Digital Identity Wallet Boosts Digital Transformation”
Led by Prof. Dr. George Dimitrov, President of Evrotrust -
e-Banking Masterclass: “e-Banking and the Programming World”
Startup & SME Pitching – Investment-Ready Businesses
Startups and growth-oriented SMEs pitch to investors and financial institutions, focusing on:
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Scalable business models (not lifestyle businesses)
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Proven revenue and growth strategies
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Execution capacity and governance
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Clear investment structures, funding needs, and exit potential
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Strategic partnerships and regional expansion
Closing Session & Festival Awards
The closing session summarizes key insights, announced deals, and partnership commitments from the two-day program. It includes:
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Changemaker Awards for standout startups, investors, and public-sector leaders
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A follow-up framework to ensure post-festival deal continuity
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Official announcement of the Balkonnect 2027 host city, reinforcing the festival’s rotating regional model