2 M EUR boost for Kosovar business innovators tackling key challenges in manufacturing, education, healthcare and mobility
The Luxembourg Development Cooperation has just opened a call for proposals targeting enterprises with bold, innovative solutions to tackle societal challenges. Through the LuxAid Challenge Fund (LCF) and the LuxAid Demonstration Fund (LDF), businesses can secure up to EUR 350,000 in co-financing to scale transformative ideas in manufacturing, education, healthcare, and mobility. Applications are open until January 24, 2025.
Empowering innovation at every stage
The LuxAid Challenge Fund and the LuxAid Demonstration Fund provide co-financing support to pioneering solutions that tackle development challenges through commercial models.
As presented during the launch event held on Monday, November 25, at the Luxembourg Embassy in Pristina, the current call for proposals welcomes applications from Kosovo-based enterprises with commercially viable solutions in circularity, digitalisation, or specialisation in manufacturing, as well as solutions for the digitalisation of education, healthcare, or mobility services. The co-financing can range from EUR 50,000 to 350,000 depending on the maturity of the solution and the fund selected.
Addressing major societal challenges
The Luxembourg Cooperation is committed to tackling major societal challenges in Kosovo. The ultimate goal of the call for proposals is to foster a more competitive manufacturing sector that drives sustainable growth and prosperity in Kosovo. Therefore, it welcomes innovative circular economy approaches in manufacturing, enhancing waste and resource management, and boosting efficiency. It also seeks digitalisation solutions to streamline production processes or optimise supply chain management, aiming for a more efficient material usage and waste reduction in manufacturing. Moreover, the funds can support innovative approaches for skills development through enriched specialisation and skills development programmes for the manufacturing sector. Additionally, it encourages IT solutions that facilitate access to education, healthcare, and mobility services, contributing to broader societal benefits and improved quality of life. Solutions should represent core business of the company.
It’s not just about funding—it’s about creating real, measurable impact for Kosovo’s communities and driving long-term societal benefits.
Who can apply?
Here’s how to qualify:
1. Startups – LCF can provide between EUR 50,000– EUR 120,000 in co-financing
- Registered in Kosovo between June 2020 and January 2024;
- Employ at least two people;
- Have tested your innovative product or service on the market for at least three months, generating initial revenues;
- Propose a 1–2-year business project around your innovation;
- Able to co-finance at least 30% of project costs.
2. Growing and mature enterprises – LDF can provide between EUR 100,000– EUR 350,000
- Registered in Kosovo before November 2019;
- Employ at least five people;
- Have a proven track record of revenue and impact for at least one year;
- Propose a 1–2-year project designed to scale your innovation;
- Able to co-finance at least 50% of project costs.
Applications open until January 24
Applications are open through the submission platform until 24 January 2025. See here the LCF application form for startups and here the LDF application form for more mature enterprises.
An information webinar is organised on December 5 at 10 am.
Ten shortlisted candidates will pitch in front of the selection committee in March 2025, while the 6-8 final laureats will be announced by June 2025.
Learn more and submit your application: LuxAid Open Call
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