Although the United States and Albania are markets of vastly different scales, both are currently experiencing a growing mutual interest in investment at a whole new level compared to just a few years ago.
Major business groups, such as Balfin, have already crossed the Atlantic, establishing construction companies in the U.S. For the first time in Albanian history, the region of the Balkans is represented on the Forbes list with its first billionaire, Mr. Zamir Mane, founder and president of Balfin Group. This trend of expansion is also being followed by other groups, primarily in the construction, retail, and food sectors.
At the same time, U.S. investments are becoming part of strategic investment initiatives in Albania—particularly in the tourism sector, such as the development project of Sazan Island. This growing economic collaboration has given rise to a new trend: the expansion of investments in the field of consulting.
Recently, iSmart Consulting—a company offering PR and digital solutions—was established in New Jersey with the aim of serving as a stronger voice and a bridge between businesses interested in entering each other’s markets.
The company was founded by American entrepreneur Blerim Sefa and Albanian entrepreneur Albana Muçaj. In an interview with AlbanianTech, Muçaj explained that the time has come for Albanian expertise to explore international markets.
An experienced professional in the field of communication, with a background in journalism and law, Muçaj brings over 25 years of communication experience and nearly a decade in business. She appears confident in her plans to work alongside ambitious businesses looking to expand into new markets—especially those in need of an intercultural communication approach. Her confidence stems from years of consulting for various European businesses and organizations expanding into Albania, as well as Albanian businesses venturing abroad.
“Through communication, we act as a facilitator, a bridge that enables businesses to reach their target markets faster and more clearly,” she states. In Albania, she has also supported startups led by women and girls, guiding them through their first entrepreneurial steps.
According to her, the most promising sectors in the U.S. market include technology, construction, and real estate. Meanwhile, American entrepreneurs show increasing interest in the Balkans, particularly in tourism projects and renewable energy production.
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