Albanian SMEs, startups and professionals are invited to apply for the FENESTRAE Call for Ideas, an international initiative supporting innovative solutions for smart buildings, energy efficiency and sustainable agricultural applications.

The FENESTRAE – Fostering Energy Efficiency by means of Smart Technologies to Retrofit Apertures and Building Envelope project, funded under the Interreg VI-B IPA ADRION Programme, has launched a Call for Ideas aimed at supporting innovative businesses and technology developers in advancing their solutions from prototype development towards market readiness.

The initiative offers Albanian businesses an opportunity to access international expertise, tailored consultancy services and regional innovation networks, strengthening their capacity to develop and commercialise innovative technologies.

Who can apply?

The call is open to organisations and professionals based in eligible IPA ADRION Programme territories, including Albania. Eligible applicants include:

• Small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the construction and building sectors;
• Agricultural and agri-tech companies;
• Deep-tech startups;
• University spin-offs;
• Innovative companies developing energy efficiency and smart building technologies;
• Architects, engineers, designers, consultants and other relevant professionals.

Proposed solutions should have an indicative Technology Readiness Level (TRL) between 4 and 6, demonstrating clear potential to progress towards market readiness.

What support is available?

Selected applicants will gain access to the FENESTRAE Cross-Border Consulting System, a transnational support mechanism bringing together universities, innovation agencies and business development organisations across the Adriatic-Ionian region.

The programme offers tailored consultancy services covering:

• Technical validation and technology readiness assessment;
• Business development and industrialisation support;
• Financial advisory and investment readiness;
• Regulatory guidance and compliance requirements;
• Market access, networking and international visibility.

Each selected applicant will work with project experts to develop a personalised package of services according to the maturity, objectives and needs of their proposed innovation.

Supporting innovation and business competitiveness in Albania

The FENESTRAE Call for Ideas provides Albanian enterprises and innovators with an opportunity to strengthen their technological capabilities, explore new market opportunities and establish connections with international research and business development networks.

As energy efficiency, digital transformation and environmental sustainability become increasingly important drivers of economic competitiveness, initiatives such as FENESTRAE can help bridge the gap between technological innovation and practical market applications.

For Albanian SMEs and startups seeking to scale up innovative products and services, participation in the initiative may contribute to stronger business development capacities and greater international exposure.

Application deadline and further information

Application deadline: 31 October 2026, at 23:59 CET.

Interested businesses, startups and professionals are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria and submit their applications through the project's official website.

Full call details and application:

https://fenestrae.interreg-ipa-adrion.eu/2026/07/02/fenestrae-call-for-ideas-is-now-open/

FENESTRAE is funded by the Interreg VI-B IPA ADRION Programme, supporting innovation, energy efficiency and cross-border cooperation across the Adriatic-Ionian region.