Montenegro's startup ecosystem is a burgeoning environment characterized by emerging innovation and rapid expansion. The country's expanding startup scene provides fertile ground for aspiring entrepreneurs, notably supported by its extensive network of incubators and accelerators, such as Digital Den and the RawMaterials Accelerator program. This article contains a comprehensive list of Montenegro's startup incubators and accelerators. They have been subdivided into applicability for startups in their 'ideation' or 'launch' stages, so you can find a program that is suitable for you!
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FULL LIST OF STARTUP INCUBATORS AND ACCELERATORS IN MONTENEGRO
Ideation Stage Startup Incubators in Montenegro
Full list of ideation-stage startup incubators in Montenegro:
Who is it for: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking cofounder / Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Social Impact
The Regional Incubator for Social Entrepreneurs (RISE) program is a transformative initiative aimed at encouraging social entrepreneurship among Western Balkan youth. The program's principal goal is to foster economic inclusion by assisting young entrepreneurs in establishing long-term, socially beneficial businesses. Participants benefit from a comprehensive one-year support system separated into ideation and incubation phases, which includes rigorous training, individual coaching, and professional mentorship. RISE promotes the growth of companies by providing cash awards, networking opportunities, and access to regional events, ensuring that young entrepreneurs are well-prepared to effect constructive social change in their communities.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
The EIT Digital Venture Program is a comprehensive project that aims to promote early-stage entrepreneurs in the deep tech industry by taking them from idea to market-ready products in a year. The program includes an intense eight-week Pre-Acceleration Phase during which participants get entrepreneurship training, professional coaching, and a €5,000 cash reward to create and complete their Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Successful firms are eligible for additional funding, including up to €25,000 in phases based on criteria such as market validation and obtaining early investors. Furthermore, the curriculum stresses peer-to-peer learning, market testing with real consumers, and seed-stage investor readiness, ensuring that businesses are well-prepared to succeed in a competitive environment.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (IEC) Tehnopolis is a critical center for accelerating the growth of innovative companies and entrepreneurial businesses. Founded by the Montenegrin government, IEC Technopolis offers full support through its business incubator, TechLab, BioLab, and Data Center, all of which are equipped with cutting-edge technologies. Startups receive professional coaching, legal and financial advice, access to cutting-edge laboratories, and networking opportunities with investors and mentors. IEC Tehnopolis' dynamic atmosphere and infrastructure enable entrepreneurs to explore their ideas, produce prototypes, and expand their enterprises, making it a cornerstone for innovation and long-term economic development in Montenegro.
Who is it for: Aspiring entrepreneurs with an idea and seeking cofounder / Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Raw Materials
RawMaterials Accelerator aims to accelerate raw materials startups by helping them convert from ideas to market-ready solutions. The program is divided into three phases: Invent, Build, and Grow, with each providing targeted support to assist businesses in refining their business models, validating market needs, and preparing for market launch. Participants in the Invent phase are given €15,000 in funding, expert business coaching, and access to a large network of industry partners to help them develop their proof of concept and identify their market niche. As they move through the Build and Grow phases, entrepreneurs receive additional capital, coaching, and strategic introductions to potential customers and investors around Europe.
Launch Stage Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Montenegro
Full list of launch stage startup incubators and accelerators in Montenegro:
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
Digital Den in Montenegro is a vibrant startup studio and center committed to accelerating entrepreneurial enterprises in the Balkans. The program's major goal is to strengthen Montenegro's position in the research and innovation industry by providing full support to startups, such as registration, technological assistance, finance, and mentorship. Digital Den links local companies with worldwide markets, primarily the United States, through the Montenegrin Tech and Startup Bridge (MTSB) initiative, which is supported by the US State Department.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Environment & Sustainability
The.wave Accelerator supports environmentally aware and sustainability-focused entrepreneurs from Central and Eastern Europe. Targeting startups with some market validation and a B2B focus, .wave seeks to build an eco-sustainable future by providing comprehensive support through its structured program. Startups benefit from mentoring, access to a large network of industry professionals, and customized tools for scaling their creative ideas. By creating a collaborative and supportive environment, .wave assists startups in refining their business models, improving their market strategies, and connecting with important players in the sustainability sector.
Closing Thoughts on Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Montenegro
Despite being relatively young and new to the scene, the startup environment in Montenegro is making strides; as evident by major startups such as CheckRewards and TourVia.me. Montenegro's commitment to entrepreneurship is seen in its strategic measures aimed at removing legal impediments and improving connectivity and governance; allowing more startup incubators and accelerators to operate in the country and paving the way for future innovators.
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