Startup Grind Tirana is bringing together once again the entrepreneurship and innovation community in a special event, featuring guest speaker Arbër Kadia, Co-founder and CEO of Patoko — Albania’s first super app that has transformed the way citizens move, book services, and manage their daily lives.

Patoko, a story that began from a simple idea, has today become one of the country’s most recognized digital products, used by over 250,000 citizens and available across multiple cities in Albania.

Arbër Kadia’s path toward the world of technology is just as fascinating: from international studies to engagements in cultural heritage, media, development, and eventually innovative entrepreneurship.

What Will Be Discussed?

During the fireside talk, Arbër will share rare stories from behind the scenes of building an Albanian startup with big ambitions. Participants will learn more about:

• How Patoko was built from zero into a multiservice platform;

• The ability to identify opportunities in a market full of challenges and competition;

• The mindset behind fast product iteration and acquiring the first users;

• The challenges of securing investments and building trust with investors;

• The realities of entrepreneurship in Albania today—from risks to turning points, failures, and breakthrough moments.

This gathering is a valuable opportunity for founders, tech professionals, students, and anyone who wants to better understand what truly happens behind the scenes when building a startup.

A Christmas Celebration for the Community

Following the fireside talk, Startup Grind Tirana has also planned a small Christmas celebration for its community — an ideal moment for networking, reflection, and connection among members of the ecosystem. A chance to close the year with positive energy and build new professional relationships.

This event marks another important step in strengthening the local startup community, bringing forward success stories, real experiences, and inspiration for all those who want to shape their future through innovation.