The Digital Loop Accelerator (DLA), the first venture-building studio of its kind in Albania, has officially launched to create entirely new startups from scratch, rooted in circular economy principles that regenerate resources, rethink consumption, and reshape the future. Unlike traditional programs that adapt existing startups, this initiative focuses on building ventures designed for sustainability from day one.
Powered by ALBICT and Maverick Nation under the EU4Circular Economy and Livable Cities Project, co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and implemented by GIZ Albania in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the program seeks to engage Albanians from the country, the region, and the diaspora in establishing startups in Albania.
Participants can choose from five popular circular economy business models, called “Digital Loops”, or propose their own. No existing startup or prior entrepreneurial experience is required, only a team of at least two people and a clear execution plan. Selected applicants will join an intensive acceleration program with expert mentoring and funding of up to €47,000.
DLA launched on 13 August, with applications opening the same day, followed by a webinar on 14 August where the Digital Loop Accelerator program, including its structure, requirements, and execution plan expectations, were presented to participants. Entrepreneurs Kirill Perepelica (Co-Founder & Chief Commercial Officer, Munch) and Michael Schmidt (Enterprise Account Manager, Circuly) also joined the webinar to share insights from their startups and inspire attendees with real-world examples of how businesses can shape the circular economy. The application deadline is 26 September 2025, and applicants are encouraged to register for and participate in the upcoming webinars before applying, to fully understand the program and its concepts.
The Digital Loop Accelerator marks a new chapter for innovation in Albania, where ideas rooted in circular economy principles can grow into ventures that make a difference for the future.
