On October 16–17, 2025, Tirana will transform into the epicenter of innovation in the Balkans with Plug and Play Tirana Expo, a one-of-a-kind event that doesn’t view Albania merely as a local market, but as an active player in the global network of technology and startups. This event reinforces the country’s vision of becoming a new hub for startups, technology, and international investments, placing Albania firmly on the global innovation map.
The expo brings together over 80 international and local speakers, 22 innovative startups, investors, and corporations from more than 20 countries, turning Tirana into a regional and international reference point for innovation and collaboration.
Plug and Play — one of the world’s leading platforms for startup acceleration — established its presence in Albania more than a year ago with a clear goal: to connect startups, corporations, and investors by offering a global network of collaboration. Operating in over 50 countries worldwide, the platform brings its world-class experience and expertise to the heart of Tirana, supporting around 20 startups per cycle with specialized mentoring, product development, and access to global investors.
“We will have investors coming not only from Europe but also from the Far East and Australia. Their interest in exploring investment opportunities in Albania and the Balkans is remarkable,” said Clemente Francavilla, Investment Committee Associate at Plug and Play Tirana, for Business Magazine Albania.
The Expo represents the key milestone of this process. New startups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas and solutions to investors, corporations, and key public and private ecosystem players — proving that Albania is ready to generate ideas capable of creating impact on a regional, and even global, scale.
Local Startups with Global Impact
This edition presents the 22 startups of Batch 1, operating in fields such as Fintech, AI, HealthTech, EdTech, Cybersecurity, AgriTech, and more. Through workshops and mentoring sessions, these startups will capture the attention of over 1,000 visitors and dozens of investors, demonstrating the potential of Albanian innovation to create solutions for international markets.
This event marks a turning point for Albania’s tech ecosystem, signaling that the country is no longer just a consumer of technology — it’s becoming a creator of ideas with global relevance.
Benefits for Albania
Plug and Play Tirana Expo 2025 offers Albania a unique opportunity to showcase its innovation, technology, and startup potential. The event attracts international investors and experts, creating new pathways for economic growth and development.
“With 80 speakers on stage and representatives from major companies like Apple, Google, Raiffeisen, Mastercard, and others, the event provides a unique opportunity for all participants. The discussions will go beyond startup–corporate collaboration, addressing major global topics like Fintech, AI, and technological innovation,” said Hannah Boomgaarden, Open Innovation & Global Program Manager at Plug and Play Tirana.
Some of the short- and long-term benefits of Expo 2025 include:
- International Investments – Innovative startups will attract global capital and expand economic opportunities.
- Global Prestige and Lobbying – Tirana strengthens its image as a city embracing digitalization and technological progress.
- Knowledge Transfer – Albanian founders gain access to international mentors, experience, and networks.
- Institutional Engagement – The participation of the Prime Minister, ministers, and institutional leaders showcases Albania’s commitment to innovation, the future, and the digital economy.
Naturally, building a strong tech ecosystem for a country still in its early stages comes with challenges — from human capital to investment attraction. However, with Plug and Play Tirana, Albania gains a game-changing instrument: a program that allows founders to test their products before international investors, receive direct mentorship from global experts, and connect with networks that can help them scale beyond national borders.
This model integrates all ecosystem actors — government, investors, large corporations, students, and young innovators — creating a network that accelerates technological growth and increases Albania’s economic potential.
In this context, Tirana Expo 2025 is not just another event; it’s a statement of vision and ambition for Albania’s future — a clear message that the country no longer aims to be just a consumer of technology but a producer of ideas that can succeed far beyond its borders.
Event Details
The event will take place at the Pyramid of Tirana, now transformed into a symbol of modern technology. Doors open at 10:00 AM, with stage programs starting at 2:00 PM. Visitors will have access to three main stages and an exclusive investor area:
- Main Stage – Keynotes, panels, and startup pitches
- Orange Cube – Tech deep-dives and product demos
- Green Cube – Technology exhibitions and strategic partnerships
- Yellow Cube – Private zone for meetings between investors and founders
Beyond the main program, visitors can join side events such as a Mini Hackathon, influencer sessions, product launches, and Innovation Walks.
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