From December 1 to 3, Inno-BootCamp was held at the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro, an early pre-acceleration program dedicated to the theme “Transforming research into market-applicable solutions and startup development.” The program was led by George Panagiotakopoulos, a renowned expert in innovation and startup ecosystem development, with many years of experience collaborating with universities, companies, and governments worldwide. As Head of Global Expansion at the University of California, Berkeley, George leads international accelerator programs and initiatives that connect academia, industry, and policymakers, representing a model particularly relevant for the development of the innovation ecosystem in Montenegro.

During three days of intensive work, participants enhanced the skills necessary for high-quality idea presentation, solution validation, and the development of sustainable business models through practical workshops, mentorship support, and direct insight into the investor perspective. Special emphasis was placed on transforming scientific research results into innovations that address real market needs.

Inno-BootCamp was designed with the aim of inspiring researchers, innovators, and other ecosystem stakeholders to develop strategic thinking, entrepreneurial determination, and the ability to create high-impact solutions. The program integrates technical expertise, entrepreneurial skills, and an understanding of the policies that shape the innovation environment, creating a setting in which ideas can develop and grow into successful startups.

The program brought together a diverse group of participants, including those who traveled from Novi Sad, Bar, and Budva to take part over all three days. Through working with the lecturer, participants had the opportunity to become familiar with the key catalysts of success as well as the potential challenges along every innovator’s journey, and to further refine their ideas and direct them toward sustainable market solutions.

The Science and Technology Park of Montenegro organized this program as part of the project “R&I POLICY making, implementation ANd Support in the WEsteRn BalkanS” (POLICY ANSWERS), which is funded by the European Union through the Horizon Europe research and innovation program.

You can learn more about the participants’ experiences and the lecturer’s impressions through the following video links:

• Nebojša Janović – Co-founder, PAIDT, Podgorica– video 

• Nataša Džudžar – Software Developer, DataArt, Novi Sad– video

• Christopher Evans – Founder, Airofly eVTOL DOO, Bar– video

• George Panagiotakopoulos – Lecturer, Head of Global Expansion, UC Berkeley– video