Budva will host the Western Balkans 2030 regional business forum on 5–6 November 2026, bringing together leading business executives, representatives of international financial institutions, business associations and regional experts to discuss investment, economic development and the future of the Western Balkans
The Western Balkans 2030 forum will take place at Hotel Avala in Budva, providing a meeting point for decision-makers, business leaders and experts whose knowledge, experience and investments contribute to the region’s development.
Over two days, participants will address key issues shaping the Western Balkans through to 2030, from investment opportunities and the energy transition to the future of work, human capital development, emerging technologies and healthcare. Particular emphasis will be placed on strengthening regional cooperation, connecting business communities and creating new opportunities for investment and partnerships.
Confirmed participants in Western Balkans 2030 include Ekaterina Solovova, Head of Montenegro at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD); Nina Drakić, President of the Chamber of Economy of Montenegro; Branko Mitrović, President of the Montenegrin Foreign Investors Council and CEO of One Montenegro; Martin Leberle, CEO of NLB Banka AD Podgorica; Lesia Vykhodtseva, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors of Zapad Banka; Zoran Milovanović, CEO of MTEL Montenegro; and Budimir Raičković, President of the Association of Managers of Montenegro.
The forum will also feature Arijana Nikolić Vučinić, Executive Director of the Montenegrin Foreign Investors Council; Iva Petrović, Director of the Nordic Business Alliance; Milan Mačvan, Founder and CEO of Eat Fruit Invest; Aleksandar Kovačević, energy expert; and Nemanja Boljević, Communications and Public Relations Manager.
The Montenegrin Foreign Investors Council (MFIC) is among the institutional partners of Western Balkans 2030, with its support contributing to stronger ties between domestic and international business communities and closer regional cooperation.
The forum’s programme will feature thematic panel discussions, conversations with representatives of the business community and international institutions, and networking opportunities designed to foster new business connections and partnerships.
One of the central themes will be the investment future of the Western Balkans, including the conditions needed to attract capital, develop infrastructure and strengthen the competitiveness of regional economies. Discussions will also explore how to retain and develop talent, how technology is transforming the labour market, the opportunities arising from the energy transition, and ways to improve healthcare and quality of life across the region.
Western Balkans 2030 aims to contribute to building a more competitive, connected and innovative region, where business cooperation, investment and knowledge exchange serve as drivers of long-term economic development.
The forum is organised by The Region magazine, a regional media platform connecting business communities, institutions and leaders across seven countries through its print publication, digital channels and events dedicated to regional cooperation and economic development.
For more information about the programme, topics, participants, and to register, click here
Organisations Represented at the Forum
Institutional Partners
Exclusive Dinner Partner
