The startup ecosystem is being reformed - 9 million euros from the EU, the new draft law aims for the European integration of innovation

The government has submitted to the Parliament a draft law for several additions and amendments to the law "On the support and development of startups", with the aim of expanding the legal framework towards the inclusion of innovation. The draft brings a profound reorganization of support policies and mechanisms, unifying the regulation of startups and innovation in the country into a single structure.
According to the accompanying report, the changes come as a requirement of the interim measures foreseen in the European Union's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. The fulfillment of these measures provides Albania with a financial benefit of 9 million euros, while bringing the country closer to European standards and best practices in the field of innovation, scientific research and entrepreneurship development.
Important changes are also foreseen in the institutional aspect. The minister responsible for innovation will have the political mandate for policy development, while the Startup Albania Agency will take full executive responsibility for both startups and innovation programs. According to the government, this approach aims to avoid institutional fragmentation and increase efficiency in policy implementation.
The draft law is considered a necessity, at a time when the startup ecosystem in Albania is growing rapidly. Since 2022, the government has supported 172 startups and 23 facilitating organizations with over 10 million euros in funding. Meanwhile, according to the European Innovation Scoreboard 2024, Albania is considered an “Emerging Innovator”, with only 41.8% of the EU average, making it necessary to strengthen support policies and mechanisms.
The draft law includes 14 articles and aims to create a unified legal framework that supports the development of innovative ideas, technological adoption and increased competitiveness of Albanian businesses, in line with the European Union acquis. The draft does not entail additional costs for the state budget beyond those planned in the 2026–2028 MTBP.
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