On October 20, 2022, the EU Support to the Competitiveness of the Kosovo ICT Sector project organized a B2B event in Gjilan. This event aimed to connect ICT businesses with local companies focused on export trade and internationalization. The goal was to explore mutual business opportunities and enhance cooperation in digitalization and export development.
The event was organized by the EU-funded ICT for Kosovo’s Growth project, in cooperation with the European Union Office in Kosovo, the Ministry of Economy, and the Municipality of Gjilan. Over 90 business participants from the ICT digital sector and traditional businesses attended the event.
Dr. Artane Rizvanolli, Minister of Economy, emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting businesses in their digital transformation and increasing their competitiveness for export. Mr. Alban Hyseni, Mayor of Gjilan, shared his vision for making Gjilan an attractive business environment for both ICT and traditional sectors.
On behalf of the project, Mr. Grigoris Kontzoglou presented the project’s objectives and its achievements to date. There was also a brief presentation about EU funding opportunities, including the EU Digital Program, Erasmus+, Horizon, and the Single Market Program.
The ICT companies gave short presentations, offering their products, services, tools, platforms, and ICT solutions. Following these presentations, B2B meetings took place between ICT businesses and companies from various sectors, including manufacturing, processing, and gastronomy. These meetings focused on exploring digitalization opportunities and enhancing cooperation for export development.
A total of 110 participants attended the event, including 6 ICT companies and 50 local traditional companies. The local companies came from various sectors, such as women-owned businesses, services, gastronomy, tourism, wood processing, and furniture.
All participants agreed on the importance of integrating technology into production and management systems. They also had the opportunity to meet, discuss, and develop recommendations for future cooperation.
ICT Companies: The participating ICT companies presented their products and services to local businesses. They provided valuable insights into existing ICT products and services that could support the digitalization and internationalization of traditional businesses. Each ICT company had the chance to present for 5 minutes, focusing on their solutions for non-ICT businesses.
Non-ICT Companies: The 50 non-ICT companies from various sectors exchanged information, contacts, and brochures with ICT companies. These interactions paved the way for future discussions and possible collaborations.
The B2B event successfully created contacts and linkages between ICT and traditional businesses, offering opportunities for mutual cooperation. Participants left with a deeper understanding of the potential for digital transformation and export development in their respective industries.
