UNDP LAUNCHES BOOST II IN SUPPORT OF BUSINESSES IN KOSOVO

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Kosovo launched the second edition of the Boost x Kosovo to support green recovery in the private sector. This edition: The Kosovo Green Challenge: NextGen comes as a result of the first edition’s success, which has been profound, with over 90% of the attendees expressing a strong recommendation for the programme. This edition is focused on Green and Digital Transition of 30 micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), of which 10 will receive grants in adopting the proposed solutions.  

The recent heatwaves and flash floods that occurred in Kosovo serve as a clear illustration of the severity of climate change challenges, creating a wide range of risks for businesses and their daily operations. To help address these environmental and economic shocks, this open challenge intends to prepare businesses to adapt to climate change impacts while accelerating the shift towards sustainable business practices.     

The challenge is open for all MSMEs looking to bolster their resilience, by acquiring the necessary knowledge and funding for innovative solutions, which address environmental, economic, social, and health crises. Embracing a green recovery strategy not only offers the potential to create new employment opportunities and rebuild the nation’s economy but also paves the way for a climate-resilient future, bolstering Kosovo’s competitiveness. 

The BOOST x Kosovo acceleration program will select 30 MSMEs that demonstrate significant business potential for making the shift towards environmental sustainability as a crucial component of a green recovery. This programme will focus on developing sustainable business models, enhancing risk management capabilities, and fortifying disaster resilience. Through their participation, these enterprises will propel their innovative solutions to the next level and amplify their impact. Women-led MSMEs poised to generate significant employment opportunities and a greener future, are strongly encouraged to apply. 

The Kosovo Green Challenge is among the first initiatives with a particular focus on empowering young entrepreneurs in their endeavors, to cultivate novel business models that prioritize innovation, circularity, and zero-emissions. It aims to bring together institutional stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the private sector to support Kosovo’s micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and strengthen the innovation ecosystem. 

The application deadline for BOOST ll: The Kosovo Green Challenge: NextGen is 31 October 2023. 
Apply here! 

BOOST is an acceleration programme, powered by UNDP Europe and Central Asia, boosting social impact innovation, and accelerating the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. BOOST x Kosovo is the local chapter of the programme, launched by UNDP Kosovo and implemented in cooperation with the Innovation Centre Kosovo (ICK). Its second edition aims to support green recovery in the private sector by fostering an enabling environment with a people-centered approach.