In a vibrant atmosphere in Podgorica, the Science and Technology Park Montenegro played host to another edition of the Keiretsu Forum Southeast Europe (KFSEE) Investor Pitch Day, an event that continues to solidify the foundations of a dynamic, connected, and sustainable startup ecosystem in the region.
The evening opened with welcoming remarks from Valentina Radulović, Executive Director of Science and Technology Park Montenegro, who underscored the vital role of strategic partnerships in accelerating startup growth. She noted:
“Science and Technology Park Montenegro is more than just a physical space, it’s a collaborative platform where bold ideas find real, lasting support. Strategic partnerships like the one with Keiretsu Forum SEE are essential in giving startups the visibility and network they need to grow meaningfully.”
Ilija Kaludjerović, CEO of Nest and a recognized figure in the regional innovation landscape, also spoke about the necessity of platforms like KFSEE:
“In a fragmented market like the Western Balkans, access to funding is limited. That’s why this platform isn’t just an opportunity, it’s a necessity. It connects ambition with capital and ideas with the resources they need to thrive.”
Ardian Hoxha, President of Keiretsu Forum SEE, delivered a heartfelt address, reminding the audience of the community-driven essence of the Forum:
“Some of the people here today, just like many of you in the room, came together to shape what Keiretsu Forum SEE is now: a space that belongs to the region’s most courageous talent. So feel empowered to see this platform as your own, one that exists to help you bring real, tangible change.”
The event showcased five innovative startups, each selected for their strong potential and bold vision. They pitched their ideas to a diverse panel of investors and stakeholders from across the regional innovation ecosystem:
-Workflow AI: A real-time, AI-powered assistant for field workers delivered through wearable technology. Workflow AI transforms how employees learn, onboard, and perform tasks by providing multilingual guidance, instant feedback, and hands-free support in any environment.
-Boccun: A digital platform that brings winemakers and wine enthusiasts closer than ever. With the help of AI, Boccun recommends wines tailored to users’ individual tastes, while also enabling wine tourism bookings and seamless e-commerce.
-MindForge: A cutting-edge learning management system designed to fully automate onboarding, training, and compliance for fast-growing teams. With powerful analytics and an AI assistant, MindForge saves time and boosts employee performance from day one.
-Lasken: A first-of-its-kind AI-powered feed for the healthcare industry, Lasken centralizes discovery, intelligence, and connections whether for mergers and acquisitions, vendor scouting, or strategic insights, helping healthcare organizations stay ahead of the curve.
-Ayita: A smart digital assistant built to enhance productivity and decision-making. Through intelligent scheduling, task prioritization, and adaptive learning, Ayita supports professionals working in fast-paced environments to stay organized and one step ahead.
Following the pitches, Ravik Mima, Executive Director of KFSEE, congratulated the founders on their outstanding presentations and highlighted the significance of such events in shaping the regional innovation landscape. He invited investors to take part in the final stage of the event, “Mind Sharing”—a closed-door session where investors express interest in co-investing and initiate the due diligence process, which will unfold in the weeks ahead.
The evening concluded with a networking session, where founders were eager to exchange ideas and receive feedback from investors. Attendees praised the event for its unique format—one that doesn’t just connect the ecosystem’s key players but helps turn the dreams of hard-working, dedicated founders into reality.
Keiretsu Forum SEE is rapidly becoming a pivotal force in the regional business scene, bringing together successful entrepreneurs and visionary investors who are ready to make a difference as business angels in Southeast Europe. It’s not just about being part of a forum, it’s about joining a community committed to driving real change.
The door remains open for prominent Albanian entrepreneurs and investors to join this journey. Their involvement is not only welcome but essential, for building a future where innovation is empowered by people, for people.
This project has been funded by the Western Balkans Fund and European Union, under the 7th Call for Regional Project Proposals, “Support to the Promotion of Civil Society regional activities in the Western Balkans”.
