Germany, a country renowned for its technological brilliance and environmental consciousness, was the perfect destination for our study visit. From April 17 to 23, 2024, a small delegation from Montenegro embarked on a journey through the world of innovation, sustainability, and cutting-edge technological achievements. Each day brought new discoveries, inspiration, and opportunities to establish valuable connections. Here is the story of our journey, which was much more than just work – it was an exploration of the future. The first steps in Berlin Our arrival in Berlin was filled with excitement and anticipation. The first destination was the Adlershof Technology Park, something like a scientific Disneyland built on the site of a World War II aircraft factory. Frank, our guide, took us through hallways filled with high-tech equipment and laboratories, bringing each corner to life with both historical stories and tales of successful companies that originated there. While Adlershof had always been a place of innovation, our time there made me reflect on how genius and technology, if not in service of a humane idea, can become the cause of much human suffering. At the same time, I thought about how many unused spaces in Podgorica could, with small investments, be transformed into creative hubs that could awaken the spirit of research and entrepreneurship in our community. From that moment until the end of our stay in Germany, I couldn’t stop thinking about how such a space was exactly what we needed when my brother and I tried to build a “small helicopter” back in elementary school. After Adlershof, we stepped into the world of cybersecurity with a visit to DCSO. Christin Wilkenman led us through their offices, showing us the relaxation area and team-building games room. When she mentioned the annual subscription fee of 4000 euros for membership in the community, we realized just how seriously Germany takes the protection of digital resources. We ended the day at the EUREF Campus, a green epicenter for sustainable energy technologies. Ursula Hermann guided us through this “city within a city” where technology and sustainability merge in an inspiring way. After seeing solar panels, wind turbines, and wastewater recycling systems, we left the campus full of ideas and enthusiasm. Berlin’s Whirlwind of Innovation We started the second day at the Embassy of Montenegro in Berlin. It felt wonderful to be at home as we discussed opportunities for cooperation and market trends in Germany. As we were told, despite being in a recession and facing a large influx of migrants, Germany has liberalized its citizenship acquisition conditions and increased the quota for accepting foreigners, especially those with STEM skills. Now, instead of requiring 10 years of residence to obtain citizenship, it only takes 7 years, and this year alone, up to 50,000 people from our region will be accepted. The main reasons for this decision, as explained by Zdravko Jovović and Dijana Ralević, who were our hosts and supporters in organizing this study visit, are the aging population and labor shortage. After the embassy, our journey took us to Hubraum and the T-Labs research center of Deutsche Telekom Group. Their story about investing in startups that use WiFi sensors was fascinating. In the future, telecom operators will be able to identify the number of people in a room, the presence of animals, heartbeats, pulse, and much more, all with the help of routers emitting WiFi signals. For example, if you accidentally choke on popcorn while watching a movie and lose consciousness, your router will send information to emergency services, triggering them to turn on the sirens and come to the scene. Similarly, if an elderly person is alone at home, the router can identify their fall anywhere in the space and send a notification to the person responsible for their care. Of course, this technology raises numerous questions about privacy protection and the range of WiFi signals—what if my neighbor’s router can detect changes and movements in my apartment? In cases like this, even GDPR, the guardian angel of privacy within the EU, remains silent. Hubraum is currently looking for creative ideas on how to apply WiFi sensing technology. Anyone with an idea can present it to their team, and if they like it, they will provide financial support, engineering knowledge, and their infrastructure for testing the idea. At the Urban Impact Agency, we were warmly welcomed by Sophie Persieghl, who shared their story about projects that are transforming urban environments. Their platform, which maps and dissects the entire innovative ecosystem, showed us how dedicated they are to changing the world for the better. The “Sustainability Challenge” project, which combines innovation and sustainability, truly inspired all of us. The evening meeting with BVIZ was a real discovery. Dr. Christina Quensel and Denny Droßmann shared their vision of supporting tech hubs across Germany. Their energy and passion for innovation left a strong impression on us. New Contacts and Adventures The third day brought a series of meetings with potential partners. At GTAI, we discussed opportunities for establishing companies in the German market. Isabel da Silva Matos and Anja Quiring shared insights about the support available for foreign companies and the challenges posed by bureaucracy. Sarah Gholiha from the Startup Hub Initiative Germany showed us how easy it is to get support if you’re producing something, rather than just offering services. We also met with representatives of the ICT cluster Berlin Partner, where we discussed cluster sustainability models. A visit to the Ahoy coworking space shattered our perception that everyone in Germany is as punctual as a “Swiss watch.” With several delays and changes to the initial agreement on-site, we continued the planned meeting with Michael Gannon from Stun and Awe, an international business development consultant with decades of experience. His vast knowledge and advice provided valuable insights into the challenges and advantages of starting a business in Germany. Relaxation and preparation for Hannover On the fourth day, we took the opportunity to explore Berlin. A stroll through the city, tasting local specialties, and

Crnogorska delegacija bila je na studijskoj posjeti Stokholmu, Švedska. Ovaj dinamični grad poznat je po vrhunskim inovacijama i uspješnom tehnološkom ekosistemu. Naše putovanje bilo je ispunjeno vrijednim iskustvima – od istraživanja tehnološki naprednog okruženja Stokholma do učešća na Future Talent Summitu i posjeta ključnim inovacionim centrima poput Epicentera i ZWEBB Fintecha.. Stockholm: A Hub of Innovation and Technology Stockholm is often referred to as the Silicon Valley of Europe due to its dynamic technological ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. The city’s commitment to technological progress is evident in its numerous startups, incubators, and accelerators that are shaping its landscape. One of the most striking features of Stockholm’s tech scene is its collaborative spirit. The city is full of coworking spaces and innovation hubs where startups and established companies work side by side, sharing knowledge and resources. This spirit of cooperation is a key driver of Stockholm’s status as a global tech hub. Additionally, Stockholm stands out for its strong focus on sustainability and smart city initiatives. The city is home to numerous projects aimed at green technology and sustainable urban development. From electric public transportation to eco-friendly construction practices, Stockholm serves as a model for integrating technology and sustainability. Future Talent Summit: Shaping the Leaders of Tomorrow One of the key moments of our visit was the two-day participation in the Future Talent Summit 2024. Held at a prestigious location in Stockholm, the summit brought together thought leaders, educators, policymakers, and business leaders from around the world. The event focused on the future of talent, as well as the changes in the world of work and education. During the summit, we attended various sessions and workshops that explored topics such as digital transformation in education, the future of work, and strategies for developing skills for the future. Among the keynote speakers were industry experts and visionary leaders who shared their insights on navigating the rapidly changing job market. One of the most influential sessions was dedicated to the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in education. Speakers highlighted how these technologies can personalize the learning experience, making education more efficient and accessible. We also learned more about innovative talent development programs that companies and educational institutions are implementing to bridge the skills gap. The networking opportunities at the summit were invaluable. We connected with colleagues from various parts of the world, exchanging ideas and best practices. These interactions provided us with a broader perspective on global trends and challenges in talent development. Research of Epicenter: Where Innovation Meets Community After the summit, we visited Epicenter, a leading innovation hub in Stockholm. Epicenter is not just a coworking space; it is a community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts. Located in the heart of the city, Epicenter offers a dynamic environment designed to foster creativity and collaboration. Epicenter is equipped with top-notch facilities, including high-tech labs, event spaces, and meeting rooms. During our visit, we had the opportunity to tour the premises and speak with some of the startups operating there. It was inspiring to see the diverse projects being developed, ranging from advanced artificial intelligence applications to sustainable tech solutions.   What sets Epicenter apart is its focus on learning and growth. This center regularly organizes workshops, seminars, and hackathons, providing members with continuous opportunities to learn. This emphasis on education and skill development perfectly aligns with the topics discussed at the Future Talent Summit. Visit to ZWEBB Fintech: Pioneers of Financial Technology During our study visit, we also had the opportunity to visit ZWEBB Fintech, a leading player in the financial technology sector. ZWEBB is known for its innovative solutions that address the evolving needs of the financial industry. During the visit, we received a comprehensive overview of their latest projects and technologies. ZWEBB’s approach to fintech is characterized by a strong focus on user experience and security. Their solutions are designed to be intuitive and accessible, while ensuring the highest standards of data protection. We learned more about their work on developing blockchain-based applications and AI-driven financial analytics, which will be crucial for the revolution in the industry. ChatGPT said: The visit to ZWEBB was particularly insightful, as it provided us with a glimpse into the future of finance. We discussed the potential of fintech solutions to enhance financial inclusion and create more efficient financial systems. The knowledge gained during this visit will undoubtedly influence our strategies in Montenegro as we aim to foster innovation in our own financial sector. Conclusion The study visit of the Montenegrin delegation to Stockholm was an exceptional journey into the heart of innovation and technology. From inspiring sessions at the Future Talent Summit to the stimulating environments at Epicenter and ZWEBB Fintech, each experience enriched our understanding of how to develop a successful technological ecosystem. The Stockholm example of integrating sustainability with innovation serves as a valuable model as we strive to enhance Montenegro’s position on the global technological scene. Our members who participated in this study visit were: Čikom, Payten, Pos4me, and We Are AI.

In September 2024, a Montenegrin delegation embarked on a study visit to Amsterdam, Netherlands, a city renowned for its vibrant innovation environment and technological advancement. From September 10th to 14th, the delegation participated in an intensive program of sessions, presentations, and networking opportunities, which provided a deep understanding of the successful technological ecosystem in Amsterdam. Amsterdam: The Hub of Innovation and Collaboration Often regarded as one of the leading tech hubs in Europe, Amsterdam creates a dynamic environment where technology, entrepreneurship, and collaboration converge. The first full day of the visit began with an introduction to the Amsterdam Science Park, a center for pioneering research and innovative startups. Danielle Pakes, Senior Manager for Community and Events, welcomed us and gave an introductory presentation about the park’s mission to support tech entrepreneurship. This session set the stage for the day’s activities focused on fintech and innovations in educational technology. Startup presentations: Fintech and EduTech innovations As part of our tour, we attended presentations from two exciting startups. The day was filled with presentations from the startups Zeta Alpha (Fintech) and Anywyse (EduTech), who showcased their cutting-edge innovative solutions. These presentations provided the delegation with a unique insight into Amsterdam’s role in advancing technologies that will transform industries. Following the presentations, we took a tour of the park, including a visit to the Quantum Demo Lab and Lab42. AI i Deep Tech start-up In the afternoon, we met with Vladimir Nedović, co-owner of Azimut Zero, and Marko Ćalašan, Compliance Director at iLegends, leaders in the AI and deep tech industries. They shared their expertise on how artificial intelligence and deep technologies are shaping the future, particularly in the financial sector. This session was highly engaging, providing a deeper understanding of how AI can be leveraged to develop sustainable solutions across various sectors. TECHSPO /Gathering of Digital Innovators On the second day of our visit, the delegation participated in the DigiMarCon sessions held at Johan Cruijff Boulevard in Amsterdam. DigiMarCon, a prestigious digital marketing conference, provided a platform for innovators, marketing experts, and technology leaders to discuss the latest trends and advancements in digital technologies. The sessions were followed by a networking lunch, where we had the opportunity to connect with professionals from around the world, exchanging ideas about the future of digital transformation. The Future of Technology: An Insight into Amsterdam’s Startup Scene On September 13th, the delegation continued its exploration of Amsterdam’s tech environment with a visit to The Next Web (TNW), one of the leading media platforms for technological innovations. This session refreshed our understanding of how new technologies such as blockchain and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing the business landscape. Following this, the delegation attended a presentation by Stripe, a prominent fintech startup, where the discussion focused on the latest innovations in financial technology, followed by a 15-minute Q&A session. Conclusion The study visit of the Montenegrin delegation to Amsterdam provided a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. From the innovations showcased at the Amsterdam Science Park to the global perspectives shared at DigiMarCon, each experience contributed to a broader understanding of how technological advancements are shaping the future. The Stockholm model of fostering innovation through collaboration, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology provides a valuable framework for Montenegro as we continue to develop our own technological ecosystem.

Exploring the Innovation Landscape in Saudi Arabia In December 2024, a delegation from Montenegro embarked on a transformative study visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The goal? To explore KSA’s thriving innovation ecosystem, establish connections with key IT and entrepreneurial stakeholders, and gather inspiration for future initiatives. Saudi Arabia: A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity From the historical landmarks of Riyadh to bustling hubs of technological advancement, the Kingdom showcased a unique blend of rich heritage and cutting-edge innovation. The visit, which took place from December 6 to 12, offered a comprehensive insight into Saudi Arabia’s economic and entrepreneurial dynamism. Building Bridges with Industry Leaders The itinerary was filled with high-impact engagements. On the second day, the delegation held a pivotal meeting with the management team of MEDCO, gaining valuable insights into how the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia fosters business growth and innovation. A highlight of the visit was the meeting with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), held on December 8, 2024. This meeting marked a key moment of the study visit, offering a deep dive into the Kingdom’s dynamic digital and entrepreneurial ecosystem. The session brought together a distinguished panel of representatives, including Eng. Mohammed Alrobayan, Deputy Minister for Technology; Eng. Mohammed AlAriefy, Assistant Deputy Minister for Technology and Digital Startups Empowerment; and Eng. Ibrahim Neyaz, CEO of the National Technology Development Program (NTDP). They were joined by other influential figures such as Abdulaziz AlHammadi, CEO of The Garage; Mohammed AlShabanah, General Director for ICT Investment Development; Afnan Ababtain, Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship; and Gadah Almermesh, Director of Digital Content. The session offered invaluable insights for the Montenegrin delegation, highlighting potential avenues for collaboration and showcasing inspiring strategies to strengthen Montenegro’s own digital ecosystem. With innovation serving as a driving force in Saudi Arabia, the meeting underscored the transformative impact of aligning technology with economic development. Equally significant was the meeting with the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA), held on December 11. The delegation explored Saudi Arabia’s approach to attracting global investments in the ICT and innovation sectors. MISA representatives presented an overview of the innovation and entrepreneurship landscape, as well as details on the Regional Headquarters Program (RHQ), designed to position Saudi Arabia as a central hub for international business operations. They also elaborated on the concept of the “Investor Journey” – a structured process that simplifies investment entry into the Kingdom. These sessions provided valuable insights into how Saudi Arabia strategically leverages technology and policy to foster a business-friendly environment, opening doors for potential partnerships and knowledge transfer that could inspire Montenegro’s own efforts to boost innovation and economic development. Mentorship and Networking at “The Garage” innovation hub. During the event, 19 startups participated in mentorship sessions with eight leading companies, creating a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and knowledge exchange. This gathering showcased the Kingdom’s strong commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation through strategic partnerships and open dialogue between startups and established industry players. Cultural and Entrepreneurial Research isits to Boulevard World and Diriyah provided insight into the Kingdom’s efforts to connect culture and tourism with the growing technology sector. A meeting with the Ministry of Tourism further clarified the integration of the IT sector into Saudi Arabia’s emerging tourism initiatives. Key messages The innovation ecosystem of Saudi Arabia stands as a testament to the ambitious Vision 2030, which emphasizes diversification, technology, and entrepreneurship. The delegation returned inspired by the Kingdom’s strategies for fostering innovation, strong support for startups, and the integration of tradition with advanced initiatives. This study visit not only strengthened the ties between Montenegro and Saudi Arabia but also provided valuable lessons for building robust innovation ecosystems at home. As Montenegro continues to develop its entrepreneurial capacity, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia serves as a strong example of what is possible when vision meets implementation. Stay tuned, as these insights will fuel new projects and collaborations in the technological and innovation landscape of Montenegro!