Innovation and finance in focus/ “Investing for Impact Forum 2026” takes place in Albania
The Ministry of Economy and Innovation, in collaboration with INNVEST and Visa, organized the "Investing for Impact Forum 2026", which brought together senior representatives from government institutions, international financial organizations, development partners and the private sector,
The forum served as a strategic platform to advance a shared vision for sustainable, inclusive and impact-oriented economic growth in Albania, highlighting how global capital, innovation and cross-sector collaboration can translate into measurable local impact.
This forum addressed the Cashless Albania 2026-2028 agenda, emphasizing fintech innovation, regulatory reform, and data-driven financial ecosystems.
Enkelejd Musabelliu, Deputy Minister of Economy and Innovation, highlighting the government's commitment in this area, said that Albania is at a defining moment in its economic transformation. "Through continued structural reforms, accelerating digitalization and strengthening public-private partnerships, we are shaping an ecosystem where innovation can flourish, businesses can grow and citizens can fully participate in a more inclusive and competitive economy. Our ambition is not only to keep pace with global developments, but to create a dynamic environment where entrepreneurship and innovation become key drivers of sustainable growth," said Musabelliu.
He outlined a broad reform agenda focused on:
· Improving the business climate, by reducing administrative barriers, increasing transparency and aligning the regulatory framework with European standards
Accelerating digital transformation, expanding digital public services, promoting interoperability and supporting the adoption of digital technologies in industry
· Empowering SMEs, through increased access to finance, capacity-building initiatives and policies that support innovation, competitiveness and internationalization
Ledia Bregu, Director of Payment Systems and Accounting at the Bank of Albania, emphasized that advancing digital payments and strengthening financial education are key to integrating more citizens and businesses into the formal economy.
Meanwhile, Fabiola Duro, founder of INNVEST, emphasized the importance of aligning investments with long-term development priorities.
"Impact investing is no longer optional, it is essential. Through INNVEST, we have worked to bridge the gap between innovation, entrepreneurship and capital, connecting startups, SMEs, investors and institutions to create real opportunities for growth across Albania and the Western Balkans," said Duro. According to her, the next step is clear: to deepen the partnership, free up more capital and ensure that every promising idea has a path to economic impact.
Najada Kumbuli, President of the Visa Foundation, emphasized that our country has the potential to become a leading example of how digital payments, financial capabilities and practical innovation can drive real economic growth, not in theory, but in the everyday lives of small businesses and entrepreneurs. The foundation has already been laid. The next step is to expand access, strengthen skills and ensure that digital infrastructure translates into real economic participation.
The Forum reinforced a clear ambition: to foster partnerships that transform investment into shared prosperity, sustainability and long-term competitiveness.
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