The President of the Economic Chamber of North Macedonia, Branko Azeski, and the Director of INOVA, Daniela Dimovska, signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing the foundations for a long-term strategic partnership aimed at advancing innovation, technological development, and entrepreneurship in the country. The cooperation is institutionalized through a clear joint commitment to building a more innovative, competitive, and sustainable economy, grounded in knowledge, new technologies, and strong collaboration among institutions, the business sector, and the research community.

“With this memorandum, we are taking an important step toward strengthening the link between the business community and institutions that support innovation development. Our goal is to provide companies with concrete support to enhance their competitiveness through access to new technologies, knowledge, and financial instruments,” said President Azeski.

“The partnership with the Economic Chamber is crucial for designing policies and measures aligned with the real needs of the business sector. Through this cooperation, we will work to develop a strong innovation ecosystem that fosters startups, accelerates technology transfer, and creates new opportunities for company growth and development,” noted INOVA Director Daniela Dimovska.

Under the memorandum, the two institutions will work to enhance the country’s innovation and technological ecosystem by supporting startups and small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as by promoting industrial research and development. Particular emphasis will be placed on technology transfer and strengthening ties between the business sector, universities, and research institutions, ensuring that scientific results find practical application in the economy.

The cooperation will also include activities aimed at the digital transformation of enterprises, through training programs, the development of digital skills, and support for implementing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and blockchain solutions. In parallel, efforts will be made to develop targeted analyses and recommendations to improve the business environment and accelerate technological development.

In terms of financial support, the memorandum provides for joint activities to develop new financial instruments and to improve companies’ access to national, EU, and international funding sources. It will also encourage greater involvement of the private sector in co-financing models and investment initiatives.

Additionally, the partnership will contribute to enhancing the international visibility of Macedonian companies through joint participation in trade fairs, conferences, and business forums, as well as through networking with regional and global innovation hubs and value chains. A key component of the cooperation will also be the development of human capital, through the organization of training sessions, seminars, and workshops, and by connecting young talent and students with the business community.

To ensure effective implementation of the planned activities, a joint working team composed of representatives from both institutions will be established to develop an annual action plan with concrete measures and activities. Regular coordination meetings are also envisaged to monitor progress and adjust priorities in a timely manner.

By signing the memorandum, the two institutions send a strong message about the need for a coordinated approach and partnership in building a modern, innovative, and competitive economy.