Youth Awards

The Western Balkans R&I Youth Awards were established to recognise outstanding initiatives that successfully engaged young people (ages 15–29) in research and innovation across the Western Balkans during the 2020–2024 period. The awards highlighted impactful youth-focused projects, increased the visibility of regional R&I success stories, and encouraged young people to pursue skills and careers in STEM, digital, green technologies, and innovation-driven fields.

Organised by INOVA under the Horizon Europe project POLICY ANSWERS, the programme accepted applications from legally established organisations such as enterprises, CSOs, schools, and universities operating in or focused on Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia. Eligible initiatives demonstrated measurable outcomes, compelling youth impact stories, stakeholder endorsements, and sustainable long-term plans.

The award process included a call for applications, the selection of 12 finalists (two per Western Balkan economy), and live pitching sessions in Skopje. Winners were chosen based on impact, innovation, relevance, sustainability, and clarity of presentation. A Grand Winner and six economy-level winners received financial awards, while all finalists had their travel and accommodation costs covered.

Following the ceremony, award recipients contributed to the Western Balkans R&I Youth Campaign by producing written, visual, or interactive content that showcased youth engagement in research and innovation.

The awards served to elevate the profile of youth-centred R&I initiatives in the region and to strengthen collaboration, skills development, and inspiration for future generations of young innovators.