Transforming Montenegro into a regional hub for artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure requires much more than good ideas; it calls for strong strategic partnerships and direct access to international capital.

With the aim of further strengthening Montenegro’s position as a credible and attractive investment destination in the context of its EU accession process, this year’s AIM 2026 Investment Conference brought together European institutions, international financiers, and private-sector leaders. At the heart of these discussions was a vision for the country’s digital future, with the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro playing an active role in shaping this important dialogue.

For the accelerated growth of the innovation sector to become a reality, the domestic market first and foremost needs stable access to capital. The importance of institutions and capital working together is underscored by a significant milestone: the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro officially signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with IBEX Equity Partners. IBEX has established its office in our building, further strengthening the connection between investors and the local innovation community.

The IBEX fund’s integration into Montenegro’s digital landscape is further demonstrated by the fact that Jean Dapčević is also a member of the Advisory Board of the Station M initiative. The fund has already demonstrated its proactive approach to the local market by organizing an educational camp for startups during AIM Innovation Week. Building on these foundations, which bring together capital and institutional support, the conference also featured a panel discussion entitled “Digital Frontiers: Investing in Montenegro’s AI & Digital Future”, moderated by Valentina Radulović, Executive Director of NTP CG.

The panel’s focus was a direct continuation of the Station M initiative, launched last year in Luštica Bay as a partnership aimed at promoting sustainable investment in IT and artificial intelligence. By exploring opportunities for developing advanced data centres and smart platforms, the initiative identifies the infrastructure and financing models needed to accelerate innovation, attract foreign technology companies, and strengthen Montenegro’s overall digital competitiveness.

Through this synergy of smart infrastructure, investment, and strategic direction, Montenegro is creating the conditions needed to retain its top engineering talent within the country’s innovation ecosystem. Direct engagement with young talent further contributes to this goal. In addition to participating in the aforementioned strategic panels, Radulović also served as a jury member at the AIM Startup Competition, where she evaluated emerging entrepreneurial ideas and innovative solutions.

The Science and Technology Park of Montenegro continues to provide a solid foundation for these efforts, opening doors to global investment and fostering an environment where local innovations have the space and resources they need to achieve tangible success on the international stage.