Get in The Ring Albania 2024: Open Invitation for Startups
May 13, 2024
Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue on Migrant Worker Rights in Albania
July 12, 2024
Tirana, Albania – The highly anticipated Get in the Ring Albania 2024 event, organized by ASDO and supported by a consortium of amazing companies, concluded with a thrilling final night on May 28th at the National Experimental Theater (ArtTurbina). The event marked a significant milestone in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship within Albania and the Albanian-speaking region, providing a platform for startups to showcase their innovative ideas and compete for a chance to participate in the prestigious Get in the Ring Global competition.
Event Overview
Get in the Ring is a global startup competition that connects promising entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, and potential partners from around the world. Unique in its format, startups pitch their ideas in a boxing ring, presenting their innovative solutions and business models in front of a live audience and a panel of judges. This format not only tests the startups’ business acumen but also their ability to engage and impress under pressure.
Mentorship Day – May 27th
The journey to the final night began with an intensive mentorship day on May 27th, where selected startups received guidance from experienced mentors across various fields.
The mentorship session featured experts like Eldisa Zhebo (Leadership and Teamwork), Arlinda Causholli (Communication), Admir Malaj (IT), and Guust Selhorst (Landscape Design), who provided invaluable insights and feedback to the startups.
The Final Night – May 28th
The final night, hosted by Blendi Salaj, was a grand celebration of innovation, where the 12 selected startups competed in rounds, each pitching their ideas to a live audience and a distinguished panel of judges:
- Mr. Hendrik Halbe: CEO – Unknown Group, The Hague, Netherlands
- Mr. Martin Eyerer: CEO – Green City Development Group, Berlin, Germany
- Ms. Diana Leka: – Head of Secretariat of Investment Council in Albania
- Mr. Akan Ajdini: CEO – IUTE
- Mr. Mario Bracci: CEO – Titan Albania
The evening started with welcoming notes by:
- Ms. Keti Luarasi – Deputy Mayor at the Municipality of Tirana
- Mr. Arjani Ymeri – Head of Startup Albania Agency
- His Excellency Mr. Reinout Vos – Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Albania
After that the evening proceeded with the battle rounds between the competing startups. The competition featured a diverse array of startups, each bringing unique and innovative solutions:
- Panairi Online: SEO and web profiles for Albanian businesses.
- Pronar.al: Virtual tour-only marketplace for real estate.
- SNET: AI-integrated software solutions.
- Garazhi.al: Platform for buying and selling vehicles.
- Suapr: AI platform helping high school students with homework.
- GreeCon: Eco-friendly business solutions.
- Psikologu Online: Online psychological treatment services.
- Mamir: Online course platform with video lectures.
- Factory 31: Authentic Albanian fashion brand.
- Gauzebag: Eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics.
- LookUp: Digital parking management system.
- VrapOn: Taxi booking app for Albanian citizens and tourists.
After a series of impressive pitches and a rigorous evaluation process, the results were announced:
- Winner: Geart Ferhati with Suapr
- Second Place: Garazhi.al
- Third Place: Gauzebag
The evening was not only about competition but also about celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit. Inspirational talks and presentations by all startups highlighted the immense potential and creativity within the Albanian startup ecosystem.
Support and Collaboration
Get in the Ring Albania 2024 was made possible through the invaluable support of:
- Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation
- Startup Albania Agency
- TUMO Center for Educational Technology
- Embassy of the Netherlands in Albania
- Credins Bank
- Titan Cement Albania
- IUTE Albania
Their commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation has been crucial in making this event a success and providing startups with the resources and visibility they need to thrive.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, attended, and supported Get in the Ring Albania 2024. Your contribution is invaluable in fostering innovation and driving the startup community forward. Together, we are building a brighter, more innovative future for Albania.
