JuniorUP 4 - Elvis Plaku
In April, I had the privilege of joining the JuniorUP 4.0 Selection Bootcamp, organized by Junior Achievement of Albania (JAA), for the third year for me. Every time I attend, I’m reminded how powerful it is when young entrepreneurs are supported by a community of passionate experts and mentors. This year’s event was no exception-it was filled with energy, big ideas, and a real sense of purpose.
What Is JuniorUP?
JuniorUP is JAA’s flagship program designed to help young people turn their business ideas into real startups. The Selection Bootcamp is a key step, where teams of JAA alumni pitch their ideas, get feedback, and receive hands-on mentoring from leading professionals in Albania and beyond (source: https://www.junior-albania.org/lajme/13-start-up-e-t-reja-nisin-rrugtimin-n-junior-up-40).
Why I Keep Coming Back
As the founder of Sfida.PRO & SfidaBiznesi.com, I believe in giving back to the entrepreneurial community. Every year, I see fresh faces with bold visions, and it’s inspiring to help them shape those ideas into something concrete. The Bootcamp is more than just a competition-it’s a launchpad for the next generation of Albanian innovators.
Event Highlights
- Expert Mentorship: Alongside fellow mentors like Anisa Kaltanji (Blessed Investment/POK), Shkelzen Marku (Yunus Social Business Balkans), Ravik Mima (Keiretsu Forum), and Tomi Kallanxhi (Big Media Expert), I worked directly with startup teams. We challenged their assumptions, helped them refine their business models, and encouraged them to think globally.
- Hands-On Workshops: Teams participated in workshops on topics like Lean Canvas, market fit, and pitching to investors. These sessions gave them practical tools to move their ideas forward.
- Collaborative Spirit: What stood out most was the atmosphere of collaboration. Everyone-from mentors to organizers-was invested in the teams’ success. It felt like a true community effort.
Key Takeaways
- Young entrepreneurs thrive when they have access to both knowledge and encouragement.
- Real-world feedback from experienced professionals helps teams avoid common mistakes and think bigger.
- The Albanian startup scene is full of potential, with many ideas ready to make an impact both locally and internationally.
A Word from the Organizers
“At Junior Achievement of Albania, we deeply believe that a young person's journey to entrepreneurship is more powerful when supported by the right people. We are extremely proud to have some of the best experts in the country guiding our alumni startups to grow, reflect, and build ideas that apply not only to the Albanian market but beyond.”
Why This Matters
Events like JuniorUP 4.0 are shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Albania. By investing in young talent and connecting them with mentors, JAA is building a stronger, more innovative business community. I’m proud that Sfida.PRO can play a role in this journey.
Let’s Connect
Are you passionate about supporting young entrepreneurs or looking to grow your own digital project? Reach out to us at Sfida.PRO-we’re always excited to collaborate and help bring new ideas to life.
Photos from the event and more updates are available on the Junior Achievement of Albania website and social media. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this growing movement!
#JuniorUP #JAAAlbania #Entrepreneurship #StartupMentoring #SfidaPRO
inbox!