AGENDA
31 May - 1 June | Tirana
Two days of actionable & sustainable practices
Over the past 25 years, Albania’s vibrant private sector has played a pivotal role in driving the country’s transition, catapulting its development to an upper-middle-income status. Situated in the Western Balkans and surrounded by the Mediterranean Seas, Albania is currently undertaking substantial reforms to stimulate growth, foster job opportunities, and advance its European Union integration agenda.
Supported by the Embassy of Sweden, the “Business Partnerships and Solutions for SDGs” United Nations Joint Project serves as the foundation for this event, offering a comprehensive framework to guide our endeavors.
Day
Session 1
Business in Albania - Where is the ecosystem going?
Inspirational talk: Ms. Louise Xin, Fashion Designer & Human Rights Activist
Company testimonial: Mr. Emiland Skora, Co-Founder & CEO, MEIA Oils
Ms. Elsa Håstad, Ambassador of Sweden in Albania
Ms. Belinda Balluku, Deputy Prime Minister of Albania TBC
Pecha Kucha Presentation – Mr. Eno Ngjela
10:00-11:30 Panel I – Main Stage
Balancing profitability and responsibility towards a sustainable future
In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges and the pressing need for a better
and sustainable future, it is crucial that we embrace sustainable practices as an imperative.
Sustainability is no longer just a trendy business practice, but a necessary step towards
creating a better world for us and future generations. At the heart of this conversation lies
the debate around the challenges and opportunities of implementing sustainable business
practices. Many companies face the dilemma of balancing the costs of transition to
sustainable practices with the potential impact on short and long-term profitability.
Join this session and explore with our panel, the critical interplay between sustainable
practices, balancing business costs and benefits and setting the foundation for a more
resilient future for Albanian businesses.
Inspirational talk: Ms. Maria Smith, Secretary General, Axfoundation
Company testimonial: Mr. Renato Boçe, Innovation and IT Manager, DBS Group
Panel Moderator: Mr. Blendi Salaj, Journalist
Mr. Constantin von Alvensblen, Board Member, Foreign Investor Association from Albania (FIAA)
Mr. Enio Jaco, President, American Chamber of Commerce of Albania (AMCHAM)
Mr. Dirk Vantyghem, Director General, EURATEX
Ms. Blerina Bombaj, President, Albanian Agrotourism Association
Mr. Edvin Prence, Chairman, Pro Export
11:30-12:00 Networking and Coffee Lounge - SDG Hall
12:00 – 13:30 Panel II - Main Stage
Driving Sustainable Business Practices in Albania: The role of CSR, ESGs and SDGs
The adoption of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are key frameworks that can guide businesses towards sustainable practices. As Albania works towards achieving its economic and social goals, it is critical for businesses to integrate social corporate responsibility as a part of core business operations and not as a side activity.
This session will focus on the role of corporate social responsibility and how sustainable practices can give businesses a competitive advantage. Join us for an insightful conversation on how businesses in Albania can create shared value and position themselves as an attractive investment destination.
Join us for an insightful conversation on how businesses in Albania can create shared value
and position themselves as an attractive investment destination.
Inspirational talk: Ms. Biljana Braithwaite, CEO and Founding Partner, Sustineri Partners
Company testimonial: Mr. Gjergj Liqejza, Administrator, Madish enterprise
Mr. Zejni Musaj, Founder and Managing Director, Musaj Z. Shpk
Video on Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises
Moderator: Mr. Blendi Salaj, Journalist
Prof. Thomas Lindhqvist, the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics, Lund
University
Ms. Ekaterina Solovova, Head of Albania, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(EBRD)
Statkraft/ Devoll Hydropower
Balfin CSR- tbc
Ms. Ardita Seknaj, International Chamber of Commerce in Albania (ICC)
Mr. Shkëlzen Marku, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Junus Social Business Balkans
Ms. Briseida Gjoza, CEO & Co-Founder, ConsciESG
13:30-14:30 Networking Lunch - SDG Hall
Session 2
Becoming a sustainable and circular business in Albania
14:30-14:40 Message from SDG Champions - Main Stage
Ms. Anna-Karin Dahlberg, Director of Sustainability, Lindex
Ms. Argjira Ramosaj, Head of Business Development Department, Mabetex Holding SH.A. &
Lindex TBC
14:40 – 16:10 Panel III - Main Stage
Circular Economy: A model of sustainable and competitive business?
Being a sustainable business means not only looking after the environment, but also making
sure that a business model is resilient enough to thrive in the long term. Business
sustainability is a broad and often misused term, but in the simplest sense, it focuses on the
management of the environmental, social, and financial concerns by the companies to
ensure responsible, ethical, and ongoing success. This panel session will provide insights into
the opportunities and challenges of implementing circular business models in the Albanian
business world focusing on the TCLF (textile, clothing, leather, and footwear) and
Agrobusiness sector. Furthermore, it will shine a light on the experience of small and
medium enterprises in the country and on the organizations that work to create the best
environment for them to thrive.
Inspirational talk: Mr. Bosse Rosenqvist, Green Business Mobilisation Expert
Company testimonial: Mr. Flori Uka, Founder of Uka Wine and Co-Founder of Uka Farm
Moderator: Ms. Emma Danielsson, Head of Sustainability Energy & Industry, SWECO, Sweden
Mr. Samir Memedov, Program officer for environment, climate change and resilience, WeEffect
Ms. Felice Emanuels, Head of Sustainability and circular economy Department, SAM Shpk
Prof. Rudrajeet Pal, Professor in Textile Value Chain, Swedish School of Textiles, University of
Borås, Sweden
Prof. Ermira Shehi, Head of Textile and Fashion Department, Polytechnic University of Tirana &
National Expert, UNIDO
Mr. Sabah Djaloshi, Executive Director, AgroPuka
Mr. Petrica Dulgheru, Executive Director, Roma Entrepreneurship Initiative
16:10-16:30 Networking and Coffee Lounge - SDG Hall
16:30 – 17:30 Panel IV – SDG Hall
Changemakers for a Better World: The launch of SDG Pioneers Albania
This session will focus on the launch of SDG Pioneers Award in Albania. This prestigious award seeks to identify and showcase individuals and companies who are making a significant contribution towards achieving SDGs through their work. After its successful launch in other countries, this award is now being introduced to Albania for the first time.
In this session we will also learn from the experience of UNDP Bosnia and Hersegovina, a pioneer awardee and from the Global Compact office of Sweden.
Finally, a part of the session will be dedicated to the award of certifications to the experts and companies that participated to the roll out of RECP and SCORE methodologies in the framework of the project “Business Partnerships & Solutions for SDGs”.
Moderator: Ms. Petra Burcher, Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden in Tirana
Inspirational talk: Ms. Aida Laković-Hošo, SDG Governance and Policy Portfolio Leader, UNDP
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Mr. Emir Adžović, Programme Analyst, UNDP Bosnia & Herzegovina
Mr. Arben Shkodra, Secretary General, Albanian Manufacturers Union
Mr. Vide Richter, Engagement Manager, Sweden Global Compact
17:30-18:00 Networking Reception - SDG Hall
Day
Session 1
Business in Albania - Where is the ecosystem going?
09:30-10:00 Welcome Speeches – Main Stage
Inspirational talk: Ms. Louise Xin, Fashion Designer & Human Rights Activist
Company testimonial: Mr. Emiland Skora, Co-Founder & CEO, MEIA Oils
Ms. Elsa Håstad, Ambassador of Sweden in Albania
Ms. Belinda Balluku, Deputy Prime Minister of Albania Pecha Kucha Presentation – Mr. Eno Ngjela, Programme Specialist, UNDP
10:00-11:30 PANEL 1 – Main Stage
Balancing profitability and responsibility towards a sustainable future
In the face of unprecedented environmental challenges and the pressing need for a better
and sustainable future, it is crucial that we embrace sustainable practices as an imperative.
Sustainability is no longer just a trendy business practice, but a necessary step towards
creating a better world for us and future generations. At the heart of this conversation lies
the debate around the challenges and opportunities of implementing sustainable business
practices. Many companies face the dilemma of balancing the costs of transition to
sustainable practices with the potential impact on short and long-term profitability.
Join this session and explore with our panel, the critical interplay between sustainable
practices, balancing business costs and benefits and setting the foundation for a more
resilient future for Albanian businesses.
Inspirational talk: Ms. Maria Smith, Secretary General, Axfoundation
Company testimonial: Mr. Renato Boçe, Innovation and IT Manager, DBS Group
Launch of Video on resource efficient businesses and visits to Sweden and Tunisia
Panel Moderator: Mr. Blendi Salaj, Journalist
Mr. Constantin von Alvensleben, Board Member, Foreign Investor Association from Albania (FIAA)
Mr. Enio Jaco, President, American Chamber of Commerce of Albania (AMCHAM)
Mr. Dirk Vantyghem, Director General, EURATEX
Ms. Blerina Bombaj, President, Albanian Agrotourism Association
Mr. Edvin Prence, Chairman, Pro Export
11:30-12:00 Networking and Coffee Lounge - SDG Hall
12:00 – 13:30 Panel II - Main Stage
Driving Sustainable Business Practices in Albania: The role of CSR, ESGs and SDGs
The adoption of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Environmental, Social and
Governance (ESG) principles and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
are key frameworks that can guide businesses towards sustainable practices. As Albania
works towards achieving its economic and social goals, it is critical for businesses to
integrate responsible and sustainable practices as a part of core business operations and not
as a side activity.
This session will focus on the role of CSR and ESGs and how sustainable practices can give
businesses a competitive advantage.
Join us for an insightful conversation on how businesses in Albania can create shared value
and position themselves as an attractive investment destination.
Inspirational talk: Ms. Biljana Braithwaite, CEO and Founding Partner, Sustineri Partners
Company testimonial: Mr. Gjergj Liqejza, Administrator, Madish enterprise
Mr. Zejni Musaj, Founder and Managing Director, Musaj Z. Shpk
Video on Sustaining Competitive and Responsible Enterprises
Moderator: Mr. Blendi Salaj, Journalist
Prof. Thomas Lindhqvist, the International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics, Lund
University
Ms. Egla Ballta, Principal banker, SME Finance and Developer (EBRD)
Ms. Rigela Gegprifti, Country Head Albania, Statkraft
Ms. Edlira Muka, CEO, Balfin
Ms. Ardita Seknaj, Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce in Albania (ICC)
Mr. Shkëlzen Marku, Co-Founder & Managing Director, Junus Social Business Balkans
Ms. Briseida Gjoza, CEO, Co-Founder, ConsciESG
13:30-14:30 Networking Lunch - SDG Hall
Session 2
Becoming a sustainable and circular business in Albania
14:30-14:40 Message from SDG Champions - Main Stage
Ms. Anna-Karin Dahlberg, Director of Sustainability, Lindex
14:40 – 16:10 Panel III - Main Stage
Circular Economy: A model of sustainable and competitive business?
Being a sustainable business means not only looking after the environment, but also making
sure that a business model is resilient enough to thrive in the long term. Business
sustainability is a broad and often misused term, but in the simplest sense, it focuses on the
management of the environmental, social, and financial concerns by the companies to
ensure responsible, ethical, and ongoing success. This panel session will provide insights into
the opportunities and challenges of implementing circular business models in the Albanian
business world focusing on the TCLF (textile, clothing, leather, and footwear) and
Agrobusiness sector. Furthermore, it will shine a light on the experience of small and
medium enterprises in the country and on the organizations that work to create the best
environment for them to thrive.
Inspirational talk: Mr. Bosse Rosenqvist, Green Business Mobilisation Expert
Company testimonial: Mr. Flori Uka, Founder of Uka Wine and Co-Founder of Uka Farm
Moderator: Ms. Emma Danielsson, Head of Sustainability Energy Industry, SWECO, Sweden
Mr. Samir Memedov, Program officer for environment, climate change and resilience, WeEffect
Ms. Felice Emanuels, Head of Sustainability and circular economy Department, SAM Shpk
Prof. Rudrajeet Pal, Professor in Textile Value Chain, Swedish School of Textiles, University of
Borås, Sweden
Prof. Ermira Shehi, Head of Textile and Fashion Department, Polytechnic University of Tirana,
National Expert, UNIDO
Mr. Sabah Djaloshi, Executive Director, AgroPuka
Mr. Petrica Dulgheru, Executive Director, Roma Entrepreneurship Initiative
16:10-16:30 Networking and Coffee Lounge - SDG Hall
16:30 – 17:30 Panel IV – SDG Hall
Changemakers for a Better World: The launch of SDG Pioneers Albania
This session will focus on the launch of SDG Pioneers Award in Albania. This prestigious
award seeks to identify and showcase individuals and companies who are making a
significant contribution towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals through their
work. After its successful launch in other countries, this award is now being introduced to
Albania for the first time.
In this session we will also learn from the experience of UNDP Bosnia and Herzegovina, a
pioneer awardee and from the Global Compact office of Sweden.
During the session we will also honour and award certifications to the experts and
companies that participated on the roll out of RECP and SCORE methodologies in the
framework of the project “Business Partnerships & Solutions for SDGs”.
Moderator: Ms. Petra Burcher, Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden in Tirana
Inspirational talk: Ms. Aida Laković-Hošo, SDG Governance and Policy Portfolio Leader, UNDP
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Mr. Emir Adžović, Programme Analyst, UNDP Bosnia & Herzegovina
Mr. Vide Richter, Engagement Manager, Sweden Global Compact
17:30-18:00 Networking Reception – SDG Hall
Day
Session III
09:30-09:40 Keynote Speeches - Main Stage
Ms. Monica Merino, Resident Representative, UNDP Albania
09:40 -11:10 Panel V – Main Stage
Innovation - beyond business as usual
In a world where progress can sometimes appear distant and intimidating, innovation also
brings forth opportunities to address the challenges we face. This session will discuss how
innovation and innovative practices can shape the future of businesses and provide
opportunities for progress. The session will highlight success stories of Albanian
entrepreneurs who have achieved remarkable success in national and global markets by
developing sustainable products and services. We will also hear how traditional businesses
are innovating and modernizing in the era of innovation.
Inspirational talk: Mr. Dean Çelaj, CEO of Akademi.al
Startup testimonial: Mr. Rizvan Kurti, Funky Cabin, EU4Innovation
Moderator: Mr. Jonel Kristo, Journalist
Ms. Tina Molund, Co-worker engagement, IKEA Social Entrepreneurship
Ms. Åsa Jarskog, Director Global Programmes, Inner Development Goals
Mr. Ledio Hysi, CEO, Toka Fermentary
Ms. Arjela Kule, Design Production Development, Ariee
Ms. Fabiola Duro, Founder and CEO, INNVEST|IMAA
Mr. Dritan Mezini, President, 3B-ICT Cluster Network
Ms. Elira Karaja, Senior Sustainability Specialist, UN System, and / Fellow, C-RASC, and BBS
11:10-11:25 Closing remarks of the main plenary event- Main Stage
Ms. Fiona McCluney, United Nations Resident Coordinator for Albania
Ms. Petra Burcher, Counsellor, Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden in
Albania
11:25-11:45 Networking and Coffee Lounge - SDG Hall
Side events
12:00-13:00 - Library Room
Sustainable business practices: Insights and collaborative opportunities from Swedish businesses
Sweden is a leader in sustainability practices with a strong tradition of implementing and
promoting sustainable business practices. Swedish companies have a lot to offer in the form
of knowledge, experience, and collaborative opportunities. In this session we will discuss
experiences and insights of operating and doing business in Albania.
We invite all participants to engage in a dynamic and candid conversation about conducting
business in a sustainable way in Albania, their own experience in the Country, including
learnings, success stories as well as the difficulties they have encountered. Last but not
least, we will discuss the way forward and future plans, also in relation to sustainability.
Moderator: Mr. Arben Shkodra, Secretary General, Albanian Manufacturers Union
Mr. Saimir Topollari, Administrator, Duxiana International for Western Balkans
Ms. Ajtena Goci, Branch Director, Atlas Copco – Dynapac SEGMENT sh.p.k.
Ms. Nora Vuka, Administrator, Stiga authorized distributor for Albania & Kosovo
Mr. Bledar Trebicka, CEO, Volvo Construction Equipments T&C sh.p.k
Ms. Anjeza Alia, Executive Director, Nordic Association for Trade and Business Development Albania
Ms. Astrid Lindberg, Coordinator, Tilia
12:00-13:00 – Main Stage
Women leading change: a discussion with women in sustainable business
“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women” said
Kofi Annan, former secretary-general of the United Nations.
Women’s empowerment is a key factor for achieving sustainable economic growth, social
development, and environmental sustainability. The contribution of women to sustainable
development and economic growth is crucial yet, and despite progress, women continue to
face barriers to the detriment of business, economic growth and society.
Join this panel for a stimulating exchange on the role of women in driving, participating and
shaping the future of business towards sustainable growth.
Introduction from Moderator: Ms. Oljana Maloku, Journalist & presenter
Ms. Elona Bejo, Co-Founder, Agritourism “Grand Albanik”
Ms. Dhurata Thanasi, Founder, Luga e argjendtë
Ms. Joana Kaçorri, Founder, Amargi
Ms. Leona Hyseni & Ms. Elida Zhulati, traditional businesses supported by Cultural Heritage
without Borders Ms. Arjeta Puca, CEO, Timak Ms. Plejada Gugashi, Local Programme Manager, The Olof Palme International Center
13:00-14:30 Networking Lunch - SDG Hall
Day
Session 3
Innovation - beyond business as usual
PANEL 5 - 09:40
Sustainable Business in the age of digital revolution
In this session we will take a glance at the future of business in Albania. We will discuss innovation and digital revolution will impact and shape business sustainability in the next few years.
As progress is sometimes perceived as something distant and threatening, innovation also unveils opportunities to overcome the challenges of our times. The interactive session will provide opportunities to see the future in action, from networking and exchanges between local and international companies, the role of civil society, including children, students, sectoral associations, universities, and we will hear from young Albanian entrepreneurs who have achieved success in national and global markets with sustainable and innovative products.
Mr. Dean Celaj (Albania’s Forbes under 30 entrepreneur)
SIDE EVENT 1 - 12:00
Sustainable business practices: Insights and collaborative opportunities from Swedish businesses
Sweden is a leader in sustainability practices with a strong tradition of implementing and promoting sustainable business practices. Swedish companies have a lot to offer in the form of knowledge, experience, and collaborative opportunities. In this session we will discuss experiences and insights of operating and doing business in Albania.
We invite all participants to engage in a dynamic and candid conversation about conducting business in a sustainable way in Albania.
SIDE EVENT 2 - 12:00
Women leading change: a discussion with women in sustainable business
“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women” said Kofi Annan, former secretary-general of the United Nations.
Women’s empowerment is a key factor for achieving sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability.
The contribution of women to sustainable development and economic growth is crucial yet, and despite progress, women continue to face barriers to the detriment of business, economic growth and society.
Join this panel for a stimulating exchange on the role of women in driving, participating and shaping the future of business towards sustainable growth