The Afaceri.ro Trade Mission to Albania offers Romanian entrepreneurs and business leaders a strategic gateway to one of the Western Balkans' most rapidly evolving markets. This mission is centered around Balkonnect 2026, a premier business festival held at the Piramida in Tirana from May 21-22, 2026. Designed with a focus on "Business Without Borders", the event moves beyond theoretical discussion to prioritize actionable deal-flow, investment readiness, and structured B2B matchmaking. Participants will engage with a high-level audience of international investors, institutional leaders, and innovative SMEs, positioning themselves at the forefront of regional growth.
The program is meticulously designed to cover high-growth sectors, including Tourism and the Experience Economy, Renewable Energy, and Digital Finance. Delegates will benefit from dedicated B2B matchmaking cubes, masterclasses led by global experts, and pitching sessions for investment-ready businesses. Key highlights include the World Business Angels Forum (WBAF) Balkan’s Meetup and sessions on bankable public infrastructure projects, ensuring participants connect with the right capital and partners.
Beyond the formal agenda, the mission emphasizes building authentic relationships through curated networking cocktails and a dedicated day for cultural exploration. Delegates will immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and unique architecture of Tirana, fostering the trust and personal connections necessary for long-term strategic success in the Albanian market. This blend of intensive business matchmaking and cultural immersion ensures a comprehensive experience for those looking to scale their presence in the Western Balkans.
Who?
- Entrepreneurs & company managers looking to expand into the Western Balkans.
- Investors & business angels seeking "deal-flow" and bankable projects.
- Cluster leaders & innovation actors focused on green energy and digital transformation.
- Public administration representatives interested in urban development and infrastructure.
Why?
- Access regional opportunities: Position your business within a strategic near-EU growth zone.
- Participate in B2B matchmaking: Utilize a dedicated "cube" for non-stop meetings to convert conversations into transactions.
- Pitch to global investors: Present your business on the mainstage to a curated audience of institutional leaders and investors.
- Gain sector insights: Attend masterclasses and thematic sessions on tourism, renewables, and digital finance.
Landmarks
- Piramida, Tirana: The unique, professionally designed venue hosting the festival.
- Tirana's urban center: Explore the capital's modern transformation and urban regeneration projects.
- Cultural heritage sites: Discover Albania's identity through its diverse tourism offers and historical landmarks.
Benefits
- Direct networking: Connect with 450+ participants and 50+ panelists from over 37 countries.
- Strategic positioning: Use Albania as a gateway to the broader Western Balkans emerging market.
- Actionable outcomes: Benefit from a follow-up framework designed to maintain momentum after the mission.
- High-trust environments: Build authentic relationships all throughout the trade mission.
AGENDA AFACERI.RO TRADE MISSION ALBANIA 2026*
*The agenda might change due to objective reasons.
May 20th
Travel to Tirana
- Meeting with the delegation coordinator at the airport (Iași/Bucharest).
- Receiving the official trade mission infokits and Balkonnect credentials.
- International flights to Tirana, Albania.
- Arrive in Tirana and transfer to the hotel for check-in.
May 21st
Balkonnect Day 1 – Tourism & Global Investment
- Attending Balkonnect Festival.
- Morning session (Mainstage): Participation in the Opening Ceremony and panels on Tourism Investment in Albania and the Western Balkans.
- Thematic cubes: Interactive sessions on Hospitality Tech, Experience Design, and Creative Economy.
- Afternoon session (World Business Angels Forum): Balkan’s Meetup focused on transforming the region into a strategic near-EU growth zone.
- B2B matchmaking: Non-stop scheduled meetings in the dedicated "Matchmaking Cube".
- Evening session: Invitation-only networking cocktail – A high-value environment to build trust and initiate serious partnership agreements.
May 22nd
Balkonnect Day 2 – Green Growth & Digital Future
- Morning session: Renewables & Green Growth Reality, addressing pragmatic energy deployment and grid readiness.
- Midday session: Infrastructure Investment focus, covering urban regeneration and mobility systems.
- Afternoon session: Digital Economy & Banking, examining cybersecurity, Fintech, and SaaS exports from the Balkans.
- Parallel masterclasses: Specialized training sessions, including the "Investors’ MasterClass" by WBAF Chairman Baybars Altuntas.
- Closing session: Balkonnect Festival Awards and the reveal of the 2027 Host City.
May 23rd
Leisure and cultural exploration in Tirana
- Walking tour of Tirana: Visit the Piramida (the mission's venue and architectural landmark) and Skanderbeg Square.
- Historical immersion: Explore the Bunk'Art museum or take the Dajti Ekspres cable car for panoramic views of the city.
- Coastal visit: A short trip to the historic port city of Durrës for sunset by the Adriatic Sea (optional).
- Farewell dinner: Celebrating the mission's success with local culinary specialties.
May 24th
Return to Romania
- Early morning transfer to Tirana International Airport.
- Morning flight back to Romania.
- End of the Afaceri.ro Trade Mission Albania 2026.
ORGANIZERS
PARTNERS & CO-ORGANIZERS
