Self-Employment Program, call for 2026 announced, Minister Ibrahimaj: Apply, apply, apply!
The Minister of Economy and Innovation, Delina Ibrahimaj, presented the announcement of the call for 2026 of the Self-Employment Program, one of the main instruments of active employment policies, which aims to support unemployed job seekers in creating their own economic activity and generating new jobs.
In her speech, Minister Ibrahimaj emphasized that this program intervenes at a crucial moment for individuals, when a business idea exists, but lacks financial support to turn it into a functional enterprise.
"The Self-Employment Program is designed to promote entrepreneurship and specifically support young people, women and vulnerable groups who want to build their future through a business. Our goal is to accompany every idea from the initial stage to its realization," said the Minister.
She underlined that the program is not only dedicated to individuals returning from emigration, but to all young men and women who choose to live and invest in Albania. The Minister also brought to attention the success stories of young people who have benefited from these support schemes, proving the potential that exists in the country.
Focusing on the importance of vocational education and training, Minister Ibrahimaj emphasized that the policies pursued have aimed not only at integrating young people into the labor market, but also at encouraging them to open new businesses. “Vocational education and training equips young people with concrete skills, giving them an advantage to launch an entrepreneurial activity more quickly,” she stated.
The Self-Employment Program is structured in several phases, starting with an application with an initial idea, followed by training to draft a business plan and then with an assessment for financing. Each year, around 200 beneficiaries are supported to develop their businesses, creating new employment opportunities and income for Albanian families.
The Minister announced that the program's funding has been increased for 2026, with the aim of supporting an even larger number of applicants. She emphasized that the program is open to all age groups and is not limited to vocational education students.
Minister Ibrahimaj also touched on other support programs for entrepreneurship, mentioning the financing of startups through the “Innovation4Albania” agency, which has been supporting innovative ideas and businesses across the country for several years. She underlined that these programs are being extended across the country, creating equal opportunities for all.
"Our goal is to spread the culture of entrepreneurship, strengthen the knowledge of young people and ensure that they build sustainable and successful businesses," said the Minister.
In conclusion, Minister Ibrahimaj invited all interested parties to apply to the open call, emphasizing that the benefits of the program go beyond financial support.
“Apply, apply, apply. You have nothing to lose, but a lot to gain, in terms of knowledge, experience, and the opportunity to realize your idea,” she concluded.
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