The B2B and Matchmaking Event took place from 08 to 10 May 2023 in Vienna, where six Kosovar ICT businesses (one at their own expense) had the opportunity to meet with Austrian and EU companies. The primary aim was to explore potential business opportunities and establish direct cooperation. The event was organized in collaboration with several key partners, including:
The first day began with registration at 8 AM, followed by Welcome Addresses from representatives of key organizations:
These speeches set the stage for the conference, offering insights into the digital business landscape. Following these addresses, keynote speakers discussed Computational Sustainability, Digital Transformation, and Quantum Computing. In addition, top digital companies from the EU and US shared their innovative perspectives.
Later in the day, B2B meetings took place at Vienna City Hall, where participants had the opportunity to connect with potential partners. The day concluded with an Evening Reception. This event allowed attendees to enjoy typical Viennese cuisine, network with fellow participants, and enjoy a glass of Austrian wine. About 200 participants joined this informal networking session.
On the second day, the conference offered workshops followed by Pitching battles in front of international investors. In addition to the lunch break, the attendees engaged in a keynote session covering critical topics such as Innovation Ecosystem, Blockchain, and Unicorns.
In the evening, the Kosovar ICT Delegation hosted a Thematic Salon on the topic “Digitalisation – The Way We Prosper”. This gathering involved Kosovar specialists, professors, entrepreneurs, and students from the ICT & Digital sector living in Vienna. The event, hosted at the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in Austria, provided a valuable space for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
The final day began with the delegation traveling to Tulln, where they were introduced to the local business ecosystem. Hosted by Accent Incubator and Prishtina REA, this session included presentations on local programs. Kosovar ICT businesses and start-ups pitched their ideas to Austrian businesses and start-ups, followed by productive discussions on potential collaborations.
Later, the group visited the House of Digitalisation, where they learned about the “Innovation Services in the Mobility Sector” project. The day concluded with a visit to St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences, where attendees explored the university’s labs, met with Alumni Start-ups, and presented the ICT for Kosovo’s Growth Project. The university also presented several of its ongoing research projects.
