Berlin and Sarajevo establish strategic partnership to develop startup and innovation ecosystems

The agreement was signed with Berlin's Senator for Economic Affairs, Energy and Public Enterprises, Franziska Giffey, and is part of the "Ecosystem Connectors Berlin – Sarajevo – Tirana" initiative, aimed at strengthening institutional partnerships between the startup ecosystems of these cities.

The cooperation includes the development of joint projects in artificial intelligence, digitalization and the green economy, as well as the formation of strong consortia to apply for major European Union programs, including Horizon Europe. Special focus will be placed on technology transfer, knowledge exchange and the internationalization of startup ecosystems.

Through the "Berlin Innovation Fellowship" program, research institutions and companies will have the opportunity to jointly implement concrete transfer projects and innovation ideas. The call for this program is currently open.

Minister Mijatovic emphasized that Sarajevo, with its strong pool of young IT professionals and growing creative and startup scene, is becoming a relevant partner to European innovation hubs.

"This cooperation represents a strategic step forward in Sarajevo's international positioning. Our goal is to open new markets for domestic companies, connect our entrepreneurs with European partners and ensure stronger integration into modern technological trends," said Minister Mijatovic.

Senator Franziska Giffey highlighted the transformational potential of both cities.

"Berlin and Sarajevo are innovation centers of their countries and cultural hubs with strong creative industries driving development. Throughout their histories, both cities have had to rebuild and reinvent themselves and are deeply shaped by transformation. With this new partnership, we are building a strategic bridge toward Southeast Europe," she said.

Additional momentum to the cooperation is provided by the new direct flight between Sarajevo and Berlin, significantly facilitating institutional, business and research exchanges.