EWA Demo Day 2025 Highlights the Achievements of Albania’s Women Entrepreneurs
Marking the successful conclusion of a six-month programme of intensive mentoring and training, the EWA Demo Day 2025 in Tirana provided a dynamic stage for ten women to launch their transformative agrifood business ideas.
The EWA Demo Day 2025, held at the Pyramid Center in Tirana on 20 November, marked the inspiring conclusion of a six-month entrepreneurial journey for ten women innovators from Albania’s agrifood sector. Organized by Balance Center and funded by EIT Food, the event showcased the remarkable progress these entrepreneurs achieved through intensive mentoring, training, and hands-on support.
Women entrepreneurs took centre stage as they presented their business ideas to a panel of expert and impartial judges, demonstrating resilience, originality, and a strong commitment to shaping a more sustainable and innovative agrifood future.
A Day of Celebration, Innovation, and Impact
The event was moderated by Xhesika Uka, who opened the day with a warm introduction, followed by inspiring welcoming remarks from Jetona Myteveli, highlighting the essential role women play in driving change within the agrifood sector.
EWA Demo Day served two main purposes: celebrating the achievements of the ten entrepreneurs who introduced fresh innovation to the agrifood sector, and providing a professional pitching platform where participants presented their business ideas before a highly qualified jury.
The jury was composed of:
- Esmeralda Ballesha – EIT Food Representative
- Ardiola Hristiç – Principal & Regional Coordinator, EBRD
- Soni Thano – Senior Banking Professional, Credins Bank
Their combined expertise ensured a fair, rigorous, and constructive evaluation process that honored both innovation and practical feasibility.
Meet the EWA Albanian 2025 Winners
After careful deliberation, the jury announced the three winning entrepreneurs of the EWA 2025 programme:
🏆 1st Prize – €10,000
Sonilda Lamaj – Ferma Dielleza
A family-owned business that blends tradition with innovation, offering certified organic and artisanal products.
🥈 2nd Prize – €5,000
Ardeta Koci – FoodLovers
An innovative concept that brings together gastronomy, education, and culture through cooking classes, culinary events, and “Made in Albania” food products.
The Demo Day concluded with a networking session and tastings of selected products, giving attendees the opportunity to connect, exchange experiences, and celebrate the achievements of this year’s talented cohort.
The Mentors Behind Their Success
The entrepreneurs were supported by a dedicated team of mentors whose guidance strengthened their ideas and business strategies:
Alban Zusi, Iva Mera, Ilir Rrembeci, Stravi Pici, Ylldise Brahimi, Kozeta Jani, Ropi Miti, Jolta Kacani, Brunilda Licaj
—who all praised the exceptional progress and commitment of the participants.
Their mentorship helped refine business models, enhance sustainability practices, and build strong market strategies—resulting in outstanding final presentations.
About Balance Center
Balance Center is a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable development in Albania. With a team of 45 experts, it supports new and struggling businesses through tailored coaching, training, and mentoring. Since 2016, Balance has trained over 4,500 entrepreneurs, creating more than 9,000 jobs. Key initiatives include CoSolve, supporting 700 businesses since 2020, and Beyond IDEA, promoting green and tech startups. Hosting Albania’s UN Women Entrepreneurship EXPO Satellite, it empowers women in rural tourism, agro-processing, and eco-friendly enterprises.
Learn more about Balance Center on their webpage.
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