News - ICT Cortex - Page 2

Winter School of Programming and Game Development – Code&Play

Winter School of Programming and Game Development – Code&Play The Code&Play Winter School project was implemented as an educational program aimed at computer science students and high school students interested in modern IT technologies. Over the course of six months, participants gained knowledge and skills through three specialized programs: Frontend web application development using the React framework (for students) Backend web application development using the Laravel framework (for students) Game development using the Unity engine (for high school students) The trainings were led by experienced experts and mentors from the IT sector: Zoran Mastilović and Marko Lekić, technical directors of Data Design and Fleka companies, respectively, in the field of web programming, while game development was conducted under the mentorship of Aleksandar Dlabač, director of Codelab. The programs were designed as intensive courses lasting 40 hours each, featuring interactive work, practical exercises, and small group collaboration, which contributed to a high quality of instruction and a personalized approach. Lectures were held live, with additional support provided through online consultations. The project aimed to improve the practical skills of young people for work in the rapidly growing IT sector, thereby supporting Montenegro’s economic development and opening new career advancement opportunities. Target Audience Computer science students from three Montenegrin universities were eligible to participate in the React and Laravel programs, provided they had an intermediate level of knowledge of relevant programming languages, proficiency in English, and access to their own laptop. Selection was conducted through an entrance exam. High school students from Podgorica, Nikšić, Danilovgrad, Bijelo Polje, Herceg Novi, and Zeta were enabled to participate in the Unity program, with special focus on students from vocational schools and gymnasiums interested in web and mobile application development. Participant Outcomes Gained deep understanding of web and game development Acquired practical skills in React, Laravel, and Unity technologies Developed teamwork, critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills Increased readiness for work and growth in the IT industry This program is funded by the Montenegrin Innovation Fund through the program for implementing educational programs in smart specialization areas, and is implemented by ICT Cortex.

Digital Skills

Digital Skills Level B – Empowering Youth for the Labor Market Project Digital Skills Level B – Empowering Youth for the Labor Market, funded by FORUM MNE, was implemented from February to July 2024 with a budget of €13,990. During the project, training sessions were organized for 25 unemployed young people from Podgorica, Nikšić, and Cetinje on the following topics: Introduction to the Internet, Social Media Marketing, Scrum Master and Product Owner, and Product Manager. The trainings were conducted by the companies Digital Bee, Bild, and Logate. Upon completion of the trainings, a presentation day was organized where participants showcased their newly acquired skills to potential employers, creating employment opportunities. Objave Digital skills Inside Post 1 February 11, 2025/ Digital skills Inside Post 1 Lorem ipsum doloret Read More

The Largest Free IT Education Program in Montenegro

The Largest Free IT Education Program in Montenegro Cortex Academy was established as a response to the urgent need for rapid and efficient development of qualified IT professionals in the Montenegrin labor market. It enables the country to address the challenges brought by the accelerated development of information and communication technologies, as well as the growing demands of digitalization across all sectors of society. The Academy is positioned as a bridge between the formal education system and the ICT industry, while simultaneously serving as a support platform for member companies of the ICT Cortex cluster. ICT Cortex Cluster Goals: Strengthening the IT industry through strategic initiatives Encouraging education and employment Improving internationalization and export competitiveness Accelerating the digital transformation of society Promoting innovation and competitiveness Affirming socially responsible business practices About Cortex Academy Cortex Academy was launched at the beginning of 2022 with the support of Crnogorski Telekom and the organization Help Montenegro. Each year, training programs are organized in the following areas: Programming (backend, frontend, mobile applications) Software testing Project management in the IT sector Digital marketing and design Technologies and Career Paths Within the programming track, the following career paths are available: Backend: Laravel, Node.js, ASP.NET Frontend: Angular, React Mobile applications: Flutter The structure and content of the program are defined based on the expressed needs of member companies, while changes to the Academy’s concept are implemented based on evaluations conducted during and after each cycle. Program Structure The program lasts approximately 9 months and consists of three phases: Online Phase I – Basic content and elimination tests Online Phase II – Advanced tasks and candidate selection Practical Phase – Project implementation with mentor support The mentor team consists of experienced professionals, with special emphasis on practical understanding of programming concepts and teamwork. Only candidates who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, motivation, and commitment during the online phases are granted access to the practical phase. This ensures quality and provides companies with the opportunity to work with the most promising participants, who can later be hired for junior positions. Target Groups The educational programs are aimed at: High school students from vocational schools and general education schools Computer science students Adults seeking to retrain or further develop their skills Employees of ICT Cortex member companies By participating in the programs, students gain additional professional knowledge, practical experience, and so-called soft skills, reducing the gap between labor market needs and formal education. Collaboration with high schools focuses on vocational schools that educate IT professionals, as well as general education schools (gymnasiums) that gather the most talented students. So far, students from Podgorica, Nikšić, and Bijelo Polje have participated in the programs. Role in the Education System Cortex Academy also contributes to the higher education system through cooperation with universities, establishing a reliable link between formal education and industry needs. Through modern content and industry involvement, the Academy contributes to curriculum modernization and better preparation of young people for the labor market. Industry Support The education program is supported by the following member companies of the cluster: Amplitudo, Bild, Codeus, Codepixel, Coins, Cikom, Fleka, First Line Software, Data Design, Oykos Development. Cortex Academy in Numbers Over 2,000 applications for participation More than 20 mentors from the private sector 50 high school students involved in soft skills development 3 programming competitions for high school students 114 participants successfully completed the training 33% of participants employed after graduation The fourth cycle of the Academy (2024/2025) is currently ongoing

Specialized Courses and Workshops within the Cortex Academy

Specialized Courses and Workshops within the Cortex Academy “Software Testing” Course One of the specialized courses within the Cortex Academy is the Software Testing course, primarily intended for adult participants who want to start a career in manual software testing. This year, 7 participants have enrolled in the course, and mentorship is provided by Marko Dragović, a software testing expert from Amdocs Montenegro. The course lasts for 9 months and covers all key aspects of manual testing, which is an essential part of the software development process. Unlike the hybrid format typical for programming courses, this course is conducted entirely in person. Last year’s generation included 9 participants from ICT Cortex member companies. “Introduction to Bioinformatics” Workshop As part of expanding educational activities into other scientific fields, Cortex Academy, in partnership with the NGO Bioinformatika, organized a one-day workshop titled “Introduction to Bioinformatics,” held on May 11, 2024. The workshop was intended for students of biology, computer science, chemistry, physics, mathematics, pharmacy, and medicine. Prior to the workshop, a two-week social media campaign attracted 20 registered participants. During the workshop, participants refreshed their knowledge of basic molecular biology concepts, learned about next-generation sequencing (NGS), explored biological databases, and gained an understanding of protein structures. Through solving a mysterious case using bioinformatics tools, they applied databases such as UniProt and the Protein Data Bank (PDB). In addition, they were introduced to potential career opportunities in the field of bioinformatics. The workshop was led by Katarina Elez, co-founder of the NGO Bioinformatika and a PhD student at the University of Berlin, whose research applies molecular simulations and machine learning to drug discovery.

International Conference on “The Use of Techniques and Auxiliary Tools for Occupational Safety and Health in Agriculture” Held

As part of the SAGRI project – Occupational Health and Safety in Agriculture, funded through the Interreg IPA South Adriatic Program, a three-day international conference dedicated to improving occupational health and safety (OHS) in agriculture was held in Podgorica from March 25 to 27, 2025. This event is part of a broader effort to create safer and more dignified working conditions in the agricultural sector across the region. The event gathered over 30 participants from Montenegro, Albania, and Italy — representatives from institutions, inspections, agricultural companies, academia, OHS experts, and international organizations. The conference was opened by Milena Aković, Marketing Director of ICT Cortex, in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of European Affairs and the Ministry of Finance of Montenegro. In their opening remarks, the importance of cross-sectoral and regional cooperation was emphasized, especially in the context of growing challenges in food safety, climate change, and agricultural modernization. On behalf of the Ministry of Finance, whose Directorate for First Level Control is responsible for verifying the eligibility of program expenses, the Head of the FLC Directorate, Kana Tomašević, addressed the participants. She spoke about the importance of participation and the benefits projects bring to Montenegrin institutions. She stressed that cross-border cooperation programs contribute to the economic, social, and territorial development of border areas, as well as the capacity building of local authorities and stakeholders to use structural and investment funds within territorial cooperation as an important component of cohesion policy. These programs help the population in border regions promote sustainable economic and social development through joint efforts in solving common problems, ensuring efficient and secure borders, and promoting joint actions involving local participants from border areas. “The new financial perspective we have entered is based on lessons learned from previous IPA 2007-2013 and IPA 2014-2020 perspectives, aiming to ensure the uninterrupted implementation of defined goals and priorities aligned with the EU enlargement strategy and Montenegro’s strategic objective regarding future EU membership.” Besides clearly bringing significant benefits to our citizens, Tomašević emphasized that the implementation of Interreg projects brings us closer to European values and standards and improves the capacities of Montenegrin institutions and beneficiaries. She also noted that Montenegro, although the smallest country in the region, has implemented a significant number of cross-border projects in the previous period, which confirms the proper use of available funds and opportunities these programs provide. In conclusion, she highlighted the Ministry of Finance’s readiness to remain a reliable partner and support all beneficiaries in implementing their projects during this financial perspective. On behalf of the Ministry of European Affairs, Slađana Pešić, National Contact Point for Interreg IPA CBC Italy-Albania-Montenegro, addressed the conference. “The SAGRI project aims to improve working conditions for farmers and agricultural workers through the adoption of occupational safety and health guidelines. This is essential not only for the welfare of workers but also for the sustainability and productivity of the entire sector. Through joint efforts, we can create safer work environments and ensure a healthier future for all those employed in agriculture, in accordance with relevant EU directives. The South Adriatic Program is one of the leaders among European territorial cooperation programs in terms of capitalization processes, providing beneficiaries with the opportunity to transfer results achieved in previous projects into new geographical, social, and economic contexts. We are especially pleased that through this call, focused on smaller-scale projects, we managed to support new beneficiaries such as ICT Cortex, which brings valuable expertise in digital transformation and innovation. The role of ICT Cortex in this project is particularly important given that the organization recently conducted research and assessment of the agricultural sector and its potential in Montenegro. This program also offers numerous opportunities for strengthening cooperation among institutions and organizations from the Italian regions of Puglia and Molise, Albania, and Montenegro. In the recently completed standard call, 43 projects with a total value of 41 million euros were approved, involving 49 Montenegrin partners with a budget of over 11 million euros.” Ms. Pešić also announced numerous new opportunities for cross-border and transnational projects in the coming period and noted that the second call for projects under the Interreg IPA program Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro, with a total value of about 30 million euros, was announced on March 6 and will be open until June 6. She invited interested organizations and institutions to familiarize themselves with the call content and to join the informational sessions organized by the Ministry of European Affairs, in cooperation with colleagues from partner countries, on April 2 in Podgorica and April 3 in Budva. During the opening panel, participants had the opportunity to gain a detailed understanding of the current legislative framework in the field of occupational health and safety (OHS). Representatives from the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Dialogue, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management of Montenegro, the Occupational Health and Safety Inspectorate, and the Occupational Safety Association of Montenegro presented national regulations, institutional responsibilities, and challenges in their implementation, while partners from Albania and Italy shared experiences and examples of good practice from their countries. A significant segment of the conference was the contribution of Michele Dinelli, a representative of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), who pointed out key steps that candidate countries need to take to achieve compliance with Directives 2009/104/EC and 2009/128/EC, as well as with ILO Convention 184. His suggestions provide important guidance for fulfilling obligations that are decisive criteria for closing Chapter 11 – Agriculture and Rural Development, and Chapter 19 – Social Policy and Employment, in the process of European Union accession. The conference provided a comprehensive overview of the state of OHS in agricultural companies from the three partner countries. Special focus was placed on digital tools and technical solutions that can improve safety in the field. Participants, through group work, analyzed regulatory compliance, identified existing risks, and developed risk assessment models. These findings will form the basis of a joint document containing recommendations and guidelines

Implementation of the MONTEDIH Project Has Begun

Implementation of the MONTEDIH Project Has Begun The implementation of the MontEDIH (Montenegrin European Digital Innovation Hub) project officially began on January 1, 2025. The project is of strategic importance for the digital transformation and innovation development in SMEs and public administration. The project budget is nearly two million euros. The project is co-financed by the European Union with 50% through the Digital Europe program, which confirms its significance for the European and regional digital agenda. The Government of Montenegro (Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation and Ministry of Public Administration) co-finances 45% of the project value, while partners will finance 5% of the project costs. MontEDIH is part of the European network of Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH), which consists of more than 150 centers across Europe. The project coordinator is the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Montenegro, and the ICT Cortex consortium consists of: University of Donja Gorica, Institute of Contemporary Technologies of Montenegro, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Tehnopolis – Nikšić, Montenegro Science and Technology Park, Finance Center Ltd. Podgorica, and the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro. This consortium confirmed the importance of synergy among institutions with the capacities and resources to contribute to further development of the economy and public administration by successfully participating in the first call available to consortia from Western Balkan countries. The project coordinator is the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the University of Montenegro, and the ICT Cortex consortium consists of: University of Donja Gorica, Institute of Contemporary Technologies of Montenegro, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center Tehnopolis – Nikšić, Montenegro Science and Technology Park, Finance Center Ltd. Podgorica, and the Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro. This consortium confirmed the importance of synergy among institutions with the capacities and resources to contribute to further development of the economy and public administration by successfully participating in the first call available to consortia from Western Balkan countries. The MontEDIH project will: Provide free testing services for state-of-the-art digital solutions based on AI (Artificial Intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), Blockchain, and HPC (High-Performance Computing) technologies, enabling SMEs and the public sector to assess the benefits and risks of implementing new technologies; Organize trainings and workshops to strengthen the digital skills and competencies of employees in public administration and companies in the sectors of agriculture, energy, tourism, construction, environmental protection, and trade; Connect businesses and public institutions with experts, technology centers, and international partners through the EDIH network; Promote innovation and support the development of pilot projects and experimental solutions tailored to the specific needs of the local community; Provide essential knowledge on business internationalization and access to financing; Contribute to sustainable development, green business transformation, and offer a full range of other services. Since Montenegro needs accelerated development to align with European standards and remain competitive in the wider region, through MontEDIH, enterprises and institutions will have the opportunity to: Strengthen their resilience to market challenges; Use resources more efficiently; Become part of the European digital community. During the project implementation, the public will be timely informed about activities, opportunities for participation, and examples of good practices. All interested parties will soon receive detailed information about the opportunities MontEDIH brings. The project will last four years.

Montenegro Is Getting Its Own #GameDevHub

Montenegro is finally getting its first Game Development Center dedicated to video game creation! ICT Cortex, as a partner in the project “Investing in the Future: Video Game Development for New Generations (CBC GAIN)”, in collaboration with the SI-MO-RA Development Agency from Croatia and the INTERA Technology Park from Bosnia and Herzegovina, is bringing a completely new dimension to the technological scene of our country. As part of the CBC GAIN project implementation, we conducted a visit to Mostar (November 2024), where we held a meeting with project partners SI-MO-RA and INTERA. During the meeting, we discussed the activities carried out so far and planned the next steps. The visit also included a conference at Code Hub Mostar, where our Executive Director, Tarik Zaimović, participated in the panel “The Gaming Industry as a Driver of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.” The GameDev Center in Podgorica will be the first space in Montenegro dedicated to video game development, where young developers, designers, programmers, and all gaming enthusiasts will have the opportunity to learn, work, and create their own projects. This center will become a meeting point for talents and creatives, with the aim of supporting the video game development industry and opening new opportunities for professional growth. With the opening of the Game Development Center, Montenegro will gain numerous benefits – from supporting young people and startups through education and mentorship to creating new jobs in IT, design, animation, and digital marketing. Thanks to this project, our teams and talents will also have the opportunity to collaborate with international experts and integrate into the global gaming scene. The CBC GAIN project is co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg VI-A IPA CBC cross-border cooperation program between Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. By strengthening the creative industry and building an innovative technological ecosystem, this Gaming Center represents a major step towards Montenegro’s digital future. The official opening of the center in Podgorica is coming soon, and this is just the beginning of a great story that will transform the local gaming scene.

What does the game development industry look like in Europe? Our study visit to France reveals the future of video game development

The European video game industry is booming — innovation, education, and community go hand in hand in shaping one of the fastest-growing sectors of the creative industries. During a recent study visit to France, our delegation from Montenegro — representatives of Alicorn, CodeLab, and the ICT Cortex cluster — had the opportunity to take a behind-the-scenes look at the European GameDev scene and learn about the best practices shaping this exciting sector. Paris: The Heart of Esports and VR Innovation Our first stop was Espot Paris, one of the leading gaming and esports centers in Europe. It is a multifunctional space that combines gaming arenas, streaming studios, and venues for professional competitions, as well as educational workshops and promotion of esports careers. Espot is not just a place for entertainment but also an epicenter for gathering professionals, enthusiasts, and talents in the gaming world. We also visited VirtualTime, a center that has been offering unique VR experiences, escape room challenges, and diverse interactive content since 2017. This center is a great example of how VR technology can be used for commercial entertainment, as well as a tool for education and the development of creative skills. Angoulême: The City of Creativity and Knowledge On the second day of our journey, we arrived in Angoulême, a French city known for its strong animation, comics, and digital media industry. A key highlight of the visit was Eurekatech, an incubator that brings together startups from the creative industries, with a special focus on the gaming sector. We learned about the ways they support young teams – from business mentoring and technical resources to connecting them with investors and partners. One of the most inspiring stops was ENJMIN (École Nationale du Jeu et des Médias Interactifs Numériques), an international school specializing in video game development and digital interactive media. We explored their programs, multidisciplinary approach, and practices that encourage creativity and collaboration among students of various profiles – from designers and programmers to narrative designers. Montenegro Is Getting Its Own #GameDevHub Inspired by this experience, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of the first Game Development Center in Montenegro. Our GameDevHub will be based on the successful models we explored in France, combining education, mentorship, and support for young teams and individuals eager to venture into the world of video game development. The goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem that will support the GameDev community in Montenegro and enable international collaboration and visibility. This project is being realized with the support of the European Union through the Interreg VI-A IPA Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro Program 2021–2027. ____________________________________________________________________________ Montenegro is finally getting its first Game Development Center dedicated to video game creation! ICT Cortex, as a partner in the project “Investing in the Future: Video Game Development for New Generations (CBC GAIN)”, in collaboration with the SI-MO-RA Development Agency from Croatia and the INTERA Technology Park from Bosnia and Herzegovina, is bringing a completely new dimension to the technological scene of our country. As part of the CBC GAIN project implementation, we conducted a visit to Mostar (November 2024), where we held a meeting with project partners SI-MO-RA and INTERA. During the meeting, we discussed the activities carried out so far and planned the next steps. The visit also included a conference at Code Hub Mostar, where our Executive Director, Tarik Zaimović, participated in the panel “The Gaming Industry as a Driver of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.”

Awarded Tablets to the Best High School Students of the 2024/2025 Generation from All Over Montenegro

Awarded Tablets to the Best High School Students of the 2024/2025 Generation from All Over Montenegro. The President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, and the ICT Cluster Cortex ceremoniously awarded tablets to the best high school students of the 2024/2025 generation from all over Montenegro at Villa Gorica. The President emphasized that he is pleased to see that the ceremony dedicated to the top students from all high schools in Montenegro is being organized for the third consecutive year, stressing that a society based on education, hard work, and knowledge is the foundation for Montenegro’s progress. “The hard work and achievements of our students have brought us together here today, continuing the tradition I initiated in the first year of my mandate, which aims to institutionally recognize the best among us. I am glad that I am not alone in this endeavor, and I would like to express my gratitude to ICT Cortex, where we have had a partner from the very beginning when it comes to recognizing excellence,” said Milatović. He expressed his belief that the established cooperation, to the mutual satisfaction of both parties, will continue in the coming years, fostering a healthy partnership between the business community and the Office of the President. “Dear students, I believe you are well aware that every step you take and every achievement you accomplish plays a significant role in your personal development as future intellectuals, but also contributes to the prosperity and bright future of our society. What sets you apart and has brought you here today, at such a young age, is not only your excellent grades and exemplary behavior. It is also the fact that you recognized early on that every test, essay, and homework assignment was a piece of the puzzle that you approached with responsibility and the work habits necessary for success,” said Milatović. He emphasized that now is their time. “But not only now. It is already clear to everyone that through your hard work and dedication, you have paved the way for your future, where many more successes await you. Be proud of what you have achieved, remain humble in your victories, and tirelessly strive for new heights. The world, with all its challenges and opportunities, lies before you, and I am confident that you will make the best use of the education you have acquired and fully realize yourselves in your chosen professions,” stated Milatović. President Milatović also shared with the students his vision of Montenegrin society, which, as he emphasized, he has been advocating for since the beginning of his term. “It is a society based on hard work and knowledge. A society where your worth and abilities matter, not how much you have or who you know. A society where diplomas are earned through effort, not bought or carelessly handed out by dubious universities. I believe that a successful society is built by healthy, educated youth, and you represent the image of Montenegrin society that I clearly see and want all citizens of our country to see as well. That is why I have launched a series of initiatives — from awarding the best high school students, granting scholarships to top students who plan to study at the world’s most prestigious universities, to supporting youth initiatives and many other activities aimed at recognizing and rewarding hard work and knowledge. Dear students, to those of you who choose to continue your education in Montenegro, I wish you to make the most of the opportunities offered by our universities, but also to be proactive and critical — to point out the shortcomings you notice, because that is precisely how we ensure the continuous progress of our education system. To those of you planning to continue your education abroad, I encourage you to take the best from European and global universities, while also being aware that you are, at the same time, ambassadors of Montenegro. That is not only a great privilege, but also a responsibility. I believe in your success and hope that, wherever life takes you, you will always carry Montenegro in your heart. You will forgive me for saying this openly, but I am counting on your return — because only by bringing the best minds together can Montenegro stand shoulder to shoulder with leading countries in various fields,” said Milaović He pointed out that youth and knowledge not only shape good individuals but also those who contribute to the well-being of others. “Not only good doctors, but also a better healthcare system. Not only good engineers, but also quality infrastructure. And not only good lawyers, but also the rule of law and strong institutions. This applies to every field, and I want you to keep that in mind. It is up to you to become the best version of yourselves, and it is up to us to create the conditions for you to stay here, in your Montenegro,” concluded President Milatović. The Executive Director of the NGO ICT Cortex, Maja Laušević Odalović, stated that this is more than just an award ceremony — it is proof that Montenegro has a youth worth investing in. “We are proud that, together with the Office of the President of Montenegro and our member companies, we can support the best high school students from across the country. Through this initiative, our member companies have shown that they believe in young people, education, and the future of Montenegro. We believe that among these students are future engineers, innovators, leaders, and entrepreneurs, and we hope that many of them will take their first professional steps within one of our companies. ICT Cortex is here to connect, support, and build a community where knowledge and talent stay and grow here, in Montenegro. This is our joint investment in a better future,” said Laušević Odalović. The member companies that donated funds for the purchase of the tablets are: Čikom, Codelab, Data Design, POS4.me, Profit App, SKY SAT, Payten, Fleka, and Telemont.

GameDevHub – Your Checkpoint to Your First Game

GameDevHub – Your Checkpoint to Your First Game (from the keyboard of a “young veteran”) Why Podgorica? After ten years of roaming between GDC, Gamescom, and China Joy, I’ve seen all kinds of ecosystems. Yet, rarely have I felt that “spark-in-the-air” moment like the one that happened on June 5th at the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro. Over a hundred designers, programmers, and pixel enthusiasts—from high school students to seniors—filled the GameDev in Montenegro meetup organized by ICT Cortex through the CBC GAIN project (Interreg VI-A IPA 2021-2027), with support from the European Union and the Ministry of Regional Investment Development and Cooperation with NGOs. To cut the story short: European funds have enabled us to launch a completely free GameDevHub space with over 20 state-of-the-art workstations, mentorship, and a training program designed for indie teams. The Montenegrin game development scene is finally getting the playground it deserves. What exactly is GameDevHub? Imagine a group of students from university, sketching out a game they’ve been dreaming about since high school over espresso in Bokeška Street. Give them top-notch PCs, a network of mentors who freely share their knowledge on Unreal, Unity, Blender, marketing, and publishing—and you’ve got our GameDevHub. Our plan is clear: We break down barriers to zero – equipment, software, and education are free for everyone, from high schoolers to veterans. We connect the industry face-to-face – need a 3D animator or advice on how to raise your next funding round? You’ll find them at the next meet-up. We open the market – partnerships with publishers from the EU, USA, and Asia bring funding, QA, and go-to-market expertise. “Opening the center will be a milestone for our gaming ecosystem; our goal is for young people to create, network, and build careers in the fastest-growing segment of IT,” say the team at ICT Cortex. Montenegro as a Sandbox for Creators If you’ve ever heard me speak at a conference or shared a beer with me, you know how much I believe in local potential. I’ve worked with teams from fifteen countries, but nowhere have I encountered such a unique blend of creativity and stubborn, crazy persistence. Today’s global audience craves authentic, author-driven “I quit my job, divorced my wife, and sold my kids to make this game” stories. Just look at the explosion of indie titles like Balatro, Blue Prince, or the upcoming Expedition 33. Montenegro has what “AAA” has lost: freshness and the courage to take risks. GameDevHub, the MonteGames conference, and our game jams will become the launchpad for the next generation of indie stars. Open Call for Everyone Whether you’ve never written a single line of code or you already have ten published titles — if you love games, you’re welcome here. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what language you speak; what matters is that you believe Montenegro can become a hotspot for game development. See you soon at GameDevHub! For more information about the CBC GAIN project and GameDevHub activities, follow the official ICT Cortex channels. See you at the next meet-up! ✍🏻Miloš Šćepanović, Game Manager on the CBC GAIN project

EBRD and ICT Cortex Join Forces to Enhance Sales Skills of Montenegrin IT Companies

EBRD and ICT Cortex Join Forces to Enhance Sales Skills of Montenegrin IT Companies With the aim of strengthening the competitiveness of the domestic ICT sector and empowering IT companies to enter the global market, the non-governmental organization ICT Cortex, with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), implemented a specialized sales training program for member companies of the cluster. The training program, conducted in May 2025, consisted of a two-day workshop and will also include a series of individual online B2B meetings between a renowned consultant and representatives of Montenegrin IT companies: Alicorn, Bild, 2BI, Codeus, Coinis, Codepixel, Fleka, Fin-Ing, Čikom, Pos4me, and We Are Ai. The training focused on improving sales strategies, optimizing the sales process, identifying clients, and strengthening negotiation skills — all key components for successful international business. The training was led by international expert Thomas Wittig from the consulting company Wittigonia Digital, known for his decades-long experience in developing sales teams and scaling businesses in a digital environment. “We are pleased to have successfully launched a training and mentoring project aimed at the internationalization of ICT companies in Montenegro, with the goal of strengthening their positioning in foreign markets. This group project, implemented with donor support from the European Union through the WB EDIF fund, enabled the participation of 11 companies and 26 representatives from the ICT sector, with the active support of ICT Cortex – one of our key partners in Montenegro, with whom we continue our successful cooperation. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) remains strongly committed to supporting the development of the SME sector in Montenegro through concrete initiatives that contribute to enhancing the competitiveness, innovativeness, and international presence of domestic companies.”- Matija Dautović – EBRD “Our mission is to continuously empower domestic IT companies and help them reach their full potential on the global market. Through our partnership with the EBRD and the engagement of top international experts, we provide our members with access to the knowledge and tools they need for growth and internationalization. We believe that such programs are essential for positioning Montenegro as a recognized digital destination in Europe.” – izvršna direktorica ICT Cortex, Maja Laušević Odalović This initiative is yet another example of the strategic collaboration between the non-governmental organization ICT Cortex and the EBRD, with the shared goal of creating a sustainable and globally competitive digital ecosystem in Montenegro. Thanks to this program, Montenegrin IT companies have been further empowered to identify and seize opportunities in international markets, thereby strengthening Montenegro’s position as a growing regional hub for digital innovation.

Analysis of the ICT Sector for 2024 – ICT Cortex and the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro

ICT is the most resilient and dynamic sector. After several years of growth, 2024 saw a decline in the ICT sector, but it has been assessed that strengthening the sector is crucial due to its strong potential and importance for digital transformation. This conclusion was presented during the event “The ICT Sector through Financial Statements for 2024,” held on June 13 and organized by the Chamber of Economy and ICT Cortex. The event focused on presenting key financial indicators of the information and communication technologies sector, as well as discussing institutional support and development perspectives of this strategic branch of the Montenegrin economy. “To harness the exponential momentum of the ICT sector’s development, we must work together to establish a supportive business environment, improve competitiveness, and create better conditions for innovators,” said Branimir Bukilić, Chairman of the ICT Association Board of the Chamber of Economy, in his opening remarks. He particularly highlighted the export potential of this sector, which, according to him, already makes a significant contribution to Montenegro’s exports, emphasizing that it serves as a strategic pillar for economic diversification and technological advancement. Maja Laušević Odalović, Executive Director of the ICT Cortex cluster, pointed out the importance of bringing together all relevant stakeholders around a common goal — the further development of the domestic ICT sector. “I’m glad that you’ve recognized the ICT sector’s potential for further growth and development. Although, unfortunately, it is still not officially recognized as a strategic industry, we believe it deserves special attention, as it demonstrates exceptional vitality, resilience, and the ability to contribute to the transformation of the entire economy,” she emphasized. She reminded that the mission of the ICT Cortex cluster is precisely to build an innovative, digital, and competitive environment where knowledge and technology form the foundation of sustainable development. “As Cortex, we are actively involved in shaping the new Smart Specialization Strategy — a key document that will guide the development of the country’s innovation policies. Our goal is for the ICT sector to be recognized not only as a horizontal but also as a vertical domain, with clearly defined priorities and allocated resources,” she stated . The analysis of the sector through the 2024 financial statements was presented by Nada Rakočević, Secretary of the ICT Sector Board of the Chamber of Economy, and Ratko Nikolić, Director and Owner of BI Consulting. According to Rakočević, after several years of stable growth, 2024 brought a decline in almost all key indicators of the ICT sector — the number of companies, employees, revenue, and profit. Nevertheless, the sector remains one of the key drivers of digital transformation, she emphasized, adding that precisely because of its strategic importance and strong potential, support measures must continue in order to overcome the current slowdown phase and ensure sustainable development. Rakočević stated that this situation is not a sign of weakness, but rather an indication that the sector is entering a more mature development phase — one in which tailored policies are essential to further strengthen its resilience, competitiveness, and long-term growth capacity. She particularly highlighted the need for stronger integration of ICT with traditional industries, so that the full potential of technology can be harnessed to modernize business processes, increase efficiency, and open up new market opportunities across all sectors of the economy. Nikolić presented the results of the analysis conducted this year as part of the Top Business Montenegro initiative, which shows that the entire sector, both overall and in the monitored segments, recorded a decline in revenue after several years of intensive growth. In addition to the drop in revenue, there was also a decrease in the number of companies operating in the sector across all three segments analyzed: Telecommunications, IT Equipment and Software Trade, and IT Services. The most significant revenue decline was recorded in the IT Services segment, where the largest part consists of companies engaged in software development and computer programming. In nominal terms, the revenue drop in 2024 amounted to 12.27%, while the real decline, after excluding the impact of price increases for these services, reached as much as 18.01%. “This significant drop in revenues should be seen as a warning and a strong signal that the sector may be facing considerable challenges that could hinder the realization of its full potential. Despite substantial growth over the past five years, revenues from this sector accounted for only 4.3% of Montenegro’s total economy revenue in 2024, nearly half of which came from the Telecommunications sector, while only 1.26% was contributed by the IT Services segment, which includes the results of software companies. Such a low share should be understood as a signal that this sector has significant growth potential, especially as we enter the era of digital transformation ahead of us,” Nikolić concluded. After the analysis presentation, a roundtable was held where key support programs for domestic companies seeking to develop innovations and strengthen their business models were introduced. Aleksandra Mugoša from the Ministry of Education, Science, and Innovation presented the co-financing call for participation in EUREKA projects for 2025, with a total fund of 200,000 euros. The goal is to develop products, services, or technologies with a high degree of innovation through international cooperation. Bojana Femić Radosavović from the Innovation Fund of Montenegro spoke about national support for participation in the Horizon Europe program — Pillar III: Innovative Europe, in which Montenegrin entities have open access thanks to an agreement with the European Union. For preparatory activities, the Ministry and the Fund have provided co-financing of up to 20,000 euros per application. Matija Dautović, representative of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), emphasized that EBRD provides both technical and financial support to SMEs through its digitalization and innovation programs. He highlighted that they actively monitor the needs of the ICT sector in Montenegro and encourage companies to apply for digital business transformation. Tanja Radusinović, Director of the Projects Sector at the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro (PKCG), presented the EmBRACE project, funded under the Interreg IPA

Montenegro will soon get its first Game Dev Hub

Montenegro will soon get its Game Dev Hub As part of the CBC GAIN project, co-funded by the European Union through the Interreg VI-A IPA Programme Croatia – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Montenegro 2021–2027 and co-financed by the Ministry of Regional Development and Cooperation with Non-Governmental Organizations, the ICT cluster Cortex organized a meetup on the topic “GameDev in Montenegro” on June 5 at the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro. This event, which brought together enthusiasts, experts, and video game lovers, marked an important step toward building a strong game development ecosystem in Montenegro and announced the opening of the country’s first game development centre. The GameDev Centre will soon open its doors in the capital and become a meeting place for knowledge, technology, and creativity. The centre will be dedicated to education, mentorship, and support for all individuals and teams interested in video game development – whether as indie developers, startups, or part of larger outsourcing teams. “The opening of the GameDev Centre will be a turning point for the Montenegrin gaming scene. Our goal is to provide space, knowledge, and equipment to inspire young people to create, connect, and build careers in this fast-growing industry,” stated the non-governmental organization ICT Cortex. At the event, industry experts spoke about game development, challenges, funding, and opportunities facing Montenegrin teams. “The opening of the GameDev Centre in Podgorica marks a milestone for the development of indie games in Montenegro. This initiative provides free access to the latest equipment and knowledge, lowering the barriers to entry into this industry to an absolute minimum. This Centre is not only an investment in the future of game development but also a clear signal that the enormous creative potential of young people in Montenegro deserves the support it merits. As someone who actively invests in the development and promotion of games worldwide, I will be a strong ally in the effort to build a strong and internationally recognized indie scene in Montenegro.” – Miloš Šćepanović, Game Manager on the project The event concluded with a discussion about the challenges and potentials of developing the gaming industry in Montenegro, as well as an announcement that the GameDev Centre will be an open space for everyone who wants to learn, experiment, and create games with both local and global potential. For more information about the CBC GAIN project and activities related to the GameDev Centre, you can follow the official channels of the non-governmental organization ICT Cortex.

ICT Cortex and Addiko Bank Sign Memorandum of Cooperation

Addiko Bank AD Podgorica and the ICT Cluster for Information Technologies, Innovation, Education, Design, and Technological Development of Montenegro – Cortex, have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the aim of further strengthening their mutual collaboration and jointly fostering the development of digital innovations in Montenegro’s financial sector. The Memorandum was signed by Christoph Schoen, Chairman of the Management Board of Addiko Bank, Danijela Vuksanović, Member of the Management Board of Addiko Bank, and Maja Laušević Otašević, Executive Director of the Cortex ICT Cluster. On this occasion, Danijela Vuksanović expressed her satisfaction with the cooperation between the two organizations so far and shared her expectations regarding future joint initiatives: “The collaboration between Addiko Bank and Cortex is not new – through our joint efforts in the Fintech Committee and participation in drafting the Strategy for the Development of this sector, we have already achieved tangible results. With this memorandum, we reaffirm our commitment to continue driving innovation and building bridges between the financial and IT sectors.” The document outlines a framework for strategic cooperation focused on the implementation of local IT solutions, enhancement of digital services, strengthening of financial and digital literacy, as well as joint participation in key events such as the Addiko SMEvolution Conference and IT SPOT ’25. Additionally, the creation of tailored financial products for the IT and business community is planned, along with support for innovation in the small and medium-sized enterprise sector. Maja Laušević Odalović, Executive Director of the Cortex ICT Cluster, stated: “Signing this memorandum represents an important step in strengthening the collaboration between the ICT industry and the financial sector, particularly in the area of digital transformation and the development of fintech solutions. As a cluster that brings together leading players in the field of information technology and is committed to enhancing the digital ecosystem in Montenegro, we recognize the importance of partnering with institutions that share our vision of a modern, efficient, and technologically advanced economy. In line with our strategic goals – to foster innovation, develop sustainable digital solutions, and build bridges between tech companies and other key sectors – we believe that through joint initiatives with Addiko Bank, we will further strengthen the fintech community and contribute to the accelerated development of digital services in Montenegro.” The signatories agreed that all joint activities will be carried out in accordance with the principles of sustainable development, professional standards, applicable laws, and ESG business principles.

Over one million euros will be invested in equipping schools through the Regional Challenge Fund program

Twelve Montenegrin IT companies have provided support to schools in securing grants from the Regional Challenge Fund to equip three vocational secondary schools from Podgorica, Nikšić, and Bijelo Polje with modern computer equipment worth over one million euros. This investment is of great importance for improving the educational process in these schools, and the modern computer equipment will directly impact the quality of future professionals in the IT industry. The Public Institution Secondary Electrical Engineering School “Vaso Aligrudić” from Podgorica, the Vocational Secondary School from Nikšić, and the Secondary Electro-Economic School from Bijelo Polje, in addition to receiving equipment worth over one million euros, will also benefit from three years of support from IT companies through mentorship and student internships within these companies. Through the cooperation between the education sector and the business community, young people are gaining practical knowledge that prepares them for the labor market. Out of the €508,000 that the “Vaso Aligrudić” school will receive over three years of project implementation, around €350,000 is allocated for equipment, €115,000 will be used for construction works, while approximately €10,000 will be allocated for various types of teaching materials necessary for the delivery of training programs. On April 18, 2024, the school was handed equipment worth €140,000, consisting of 75 high-performance personal computers, and conditions will soon be created for the delivery of the remaining equipment. Within the third call for grant awards, with the support of the non-governmental organization ICT Cortex, grants were also awarded to the Vocational Secondary School in Nikšić and the Secondary Electro-Economic School from Bijelo Polje. Aiming to improve the working and teaching conditions for the study programs “Electrical Technician for Web and Mobile Application Development” and “Electrical Technician for Computer Systems and Networks Development,” they were awarded a grant totaling €568,000. Through the implementation of another three-year project, member companies of the ICT Cortex NGO will continue to make a direct contribution to the development of a cooperative education system in Montenegro, based on close collaboration between businesses and schools. “Through this project, companies are sending a message that they are ready to invest in young people, prepare them for the demands of the labor market, and help shape them into young professionals,” stated representatives of the non-governmental organization for information technology, ICT Cortex. Statement from Ersan Spahić, Director of the Public Institution Secondary Electrical Engineering School “Vaso Aligrudić”: “The partnership with the Regional Challenge Fund and domestic IT companies represents a historic step forward for our school in the modernization of education. Thanks to this significant investment, our students will, for the first time, have access to equipment and working conditions that are fully aligned with the demands of the modern labor market in the field of information technology. This support is not just an investment in equipment — it is an investment in knowledge, in competencies, and in young people who will have the opportunity to learn through practice during their education, guided by experts from leading IT companies. I am confident that this project will leave a lasting impact on the quality of education, as well as on the future of our students, who will graduate ready to meet the challenges of the modern digital world. I would like to thank the Regional Challenge Fund, ICT Cortex, and the companies that recognized the importance of investing in education. Our school is proud to be part of this project and to be jointly building bridges between education and industry.” The funds for the mentioned projects were provided by the Regional Challenge Fund (RCF), which invests in projects that connect companies with vocational education and training institutions, ensuring that students acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the modern business environment. The RCF is financed by the governments of Germany and Switzerland, and the investments are directed toward vocational education programs designed in collaboration with companies. This approach results in educational programs that meet the specific needs of the industry, helping the economies of the Western Balkans to grow and become competitive in the European market. Over the course of the three calls for proposals held so far, the Regional Challenge Fund has allocated €3.25 million to support a total of seven vocational education and training projects in Montenegro, involving 40 partner companies.