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The Science and Technology Park of Montenegro is organising the Inno-Bootcamp (an early pre-acceleration programme) entitled “Transforming Research into Market-Oriented Solutions and Startup Development.”
The programme will take place at the building of the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro in Podgorica. It is intended for university researchers, decision-makers, representatives of the business sector (companies, business and cluster associations), as well as representatives of public institutions and civil society organisations active within the research and innovation ecosystem.
The Science and Technology Park of Montenegro is organising this programme as part of the project “R&I POLICY making, implementation ANd Support in the WEsteRn BalkanS”, abbreviated POLICY ANSWERS, funded by the European Union through the Horizon Europe research and innovation programme.
Main Objective of the Programme
The Inno-Bootcamp is designed to inspire researchers, innovators and ecosystem actors to turn their ideas into sustainable market solutions and startups. The programme gives participants first-hand insight into the key drivers of success – and the challenges – that shape the journey of every innovator, while helping them develop strategic thinking, determination and the ability to design high-impact solutions.
Through practical work, mentoring support and a direct understanding of the investor perspective, participants will enhance essential skills for pitching ideas, validating solutions, developing business models and increasing the feasibility of their startup ventures. A particular focus is placed on transforming scientific research results into innovations that meet real market needs.
The programme integrates technical expertise, entrepreneurial skills and an understanding of the policies that shape the innovation ecosystem, creating an environment where ideas can grow and evolve into successful startups.
Inno-Bootcamp connects practice, knowledge and strategy – empowering future leaders to create sustainable innovations and contribute to the global innovation ecosystem.
About the Lecturer: George Panagiotakopoulos
George Panagiotakopoulos is an expert in innovation, entrepreneurship and startup ecosystem development, with extensive experience working with universities, companies and governments around the world. As Head of Global Expansion at the University of California (UC Berkeley), he leads international accelerator programmes and initiatives that connect academia, industry and policymakers – a model particularly relevant for developing Montenegro’s innovation ecosystem.
In his work, George evaluates and supports the development of thousands of startups, helping teams transform their ideas into sustainable market solutions. As an adjunct lecturer at UC Berkeley, he delivers programmes and workshops in innovation, entrepreneurship and technology commercialisation.
Before joining Berkeley, he was a serial entrepreneur and worked in Fortune 500 companies, where he developed go-to-market strategies, business models and assessments of disruptive technologies. He holds an MBA from UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business.
George brings a unique combination of practical experience, strategic thinking and global best practices, making him an ideal contributor to the topic of transforming research into market-oriented solutions and building a startup ecosystem.
Application Process
The programme is designed for 15–20 participants, who will be selected based on their previous experience and demonstrated motivation to take part.
The programme will be held in English. Participation is free of charge (no registration fee).
Interested candidates can apply via the online application form.
Additional information about the programme is available in the agenda.
The application deadline is 27 November 2025, and selected participants will be informed of the results no later than 28 November 2025.
Contact:
Milica Božović, Science and Technology Park of Montenegro
milica.bozovic@ntpark.me