The Science and technology park of Montenegro is one of the partners in the project “R&I POLICY making, implementation ANd Support in the WEsteRn BalkanS” (Grant Agreement 101058873), abbreviated as POLICY ANSWERS. Through this project, a call for applications has been opened for the “Western Balkans R&I Youth Awards.” The project is funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe program for research and innovation.

The “Western Balkans R&I Youth Awards” recognize and reward outstanding initiatives from organizations in the Western Balkans that have successfully engaged young people in research and innovation between 2020 and 2024. These awards aim to increase the visibility of youth-driven research and development stories in the region, promote and encourage professional initiatives in the field of R&I, and support opportunities for further professional growth.

Who can Apply?

This call is open to organizations (micro-enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises, civil society organizations, schools, universities, or other entities) based in or focused on the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia).

Eligible initiatives must:

• Be youth-focused (targeting individuals aged 15 to 29, typically in high school, university, or the early stages of their careers).
• Be implemented between 2020 and 2024

The focus is on engaging young people in one or more of the following areas:

• Research (e.g., in the fields of STEM, digital, or green technologies)
• Innovation (e.g., innovative entrepreneurship, business development, ventures in creative sectors).

The selection process, which takes place in several phases, can be found at the link

How to apply?

Fill out the online application (approximately 10 minutes)

Access the online application form in English and answer all questions in English. The form is designed to be filled out quickly and easily.

Step 2: Submit the supporting documentation

If your initiative is shortlisted, you will receive an invitation to submit the supporting documentation after completing Step 1.

As mentioned above, to demonstrate tangible results and significant impact, participants are required to provide evidence, such as:

1. Measurable results: Significant participation in STEM activities, increased enrollment in relevant educational programs, or successful startups initiated by young people.
2. Compelling stories: Sharing stories of young people whose lives have been positively impacted by the initiative.
3. Recognition and awards: Any previous recognition or awards the initiative has received.
4. Certificates: Letters of support or testimonials from educators, community leaders, or other stakeholders.
5. Sustainability: Evidence that the initiative has a plan for continuing its impact after the funding period
6. Administrative documents: An up-to-date extract of registration issued by the Commercial register (no older than three months) and proof that the applicant is not in any exclusion situations according to the criteria.

More information can be found at link

If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact [email protected].

*Kosovo – This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in accordance with UN Security council resolution 1244 and the Advisory opinion of the International court of Justice on the declaration of independence of Kosovo.