GEN-E Albania: The National Entrepreneurship Festival 2024 — Junior Achievement of Albania (Copy)

The National Entrepreneurship Festival 2024 took place in Tirana on May 14th-15th, 2024, showcasing the innovative spirit of 95 students representing 19 JAA Student Companies from 17 higher secondary education institutions across Tirana, Elbasan, Peshkopi, Berat, Kuçovo, Prrenjas, Korçë, and Saranda. These Student Companies, an integral part of the elective curriculum of upper secondary education, instill entrepreneurial principles and financial literacy in young minds. Competing for nine prestigious awards, the students presented business ideas and products tailored to market demands, with a focus on the Green Economy (40%), IT & Innovation (34%), and Web & App design (26%). Notably, 74% of the Student Company leaders in the competition were girls, underscoring the diverse participation in entrepreneurship.

The highlight of the event was the crowning of the best Entrepreneurial Company of 2024, which will proudly represent Albania at the European Entrepreneurship Festival hosted by JA Europe in Catania, Italy. This grand culmination marked the end of months of dedicated effort under the "Students' Company of JAA" program, which commenced with the introduction of the elective course in 52 schools, engaging 2,132 students. Subsequently, 68 Student Companies were established, with 132 student leaders receiving specialized training. The program also facilitated the participation of 345 Company representatives in two Regional Entrepreneurship Festivals held in Shkodër and Vlorë.

Gratitude is extended to the Ministry of Education and Sports for their institutional support, alongside the Albanian-American Development Foundation and Tirana Bank, which made this initiative possible. Additionally, it's noteworthy that Polis University granted scholarships to two student companies, further fostering educational and entrepreneurial excellence.

Winning Teams: