Representatives of the Sustain4Future consortium gathered in Tirana, Albania, for their third face-to-face meet-up. Hosted by Epoka University (with the support of EIT HEIPowered and EIT Urban Mobility), the three-day program focused on strategic planning, networking, and the development of sustainable entrepreneurship.
The meeting provided an opportunity for an in-depth discussion of project activities and the planning of next steps to reach set goals and KPIs.
Day 1: Strategy and Regenerative Business
Following welcoming remarks from the rector, Prof. Dr. Huseyin Bilgin, the team focused on developing a toolbox for learning modules, improving incubator programs, and celebrating the success stories of Phase 1. An inspiring end to the first day was a visit to Blerina’s Agritourism Concept—a family greenhouse transformed into a regenerative farm, boutique hotel, and restaurant.
Day 2: Ecosystem and Culture
Thursday was spent at the newly established cultural and technological hub, Piramida Tirana. Here, Anette Fogelqvist facilitated a vibrant ecosystem networking workshop, allowing participants to build valuable connections within the Albanian innovation environment. In the afternoon, the consortium absorbed the local historical context during a study visit to the former barracks, Kazerma e Cerenit.
Day 3: Capacity Building and a Shared Vision
The final day brought together students, professors, and university staff. An expert team consisting of Ester Bernadó and Margot Vanden Bossche facilitated a Capacity Building Workshop. Using recommendations from the HEInnovate Action Cards, participants mapped the current entrepreneurial status and agreed on a clear vision: to make Epoka University the leading entrepreneurial higher education institution in its region.
A huge thank you for the excellent organization and for hosting the consortium goes to the Epoka University representatives, Alba Demneri Kruja and Vilma Çekani.