Apply now for BOOST Urban Future Finance Acceleration Programme

The BOOST: Urban Future Finance acceleration programme focused on identifying, further developing and scaling novel financial solutions that can drive urban transformation in the Western Balkan region.

The BOOST team will onboard up to 20 groundbreaking solutions with the potential to unlock urban growth. Selected participants will benefit from a wealth of resources provided by UNDP and their partner, SocialTech Lab, an organization working to harness the power of technology & innovation to create ecosystems that foster collaborative entrepreneurship and resilience.

Benefits

• Participation in a four-week BOOSTCamp, featuring an in-person event (location and dates to be announced), offering an immersive, hands-on experience with key networking opportunities.
• Tailored training sessions designed to fast-track solutions towards market readiness and scalability.
• Exclusive mentorship from industry experts, specializing in impact measurement, business model development, and innovative financing strategies.
• Matchmaking opportunities with cities ready to test and implement cutting-edge solutions.
• Direct access to financial and technical support provided by UNDP, investors and partners.
• A lifelong alumni network, providing continued support, collaboration, and valuable connections.

What they’re looking for?

• The BOOST: Urban Future Finance acceleration programme is exploring new ways to boost urban development. They’re looking for innovative or alternative finance solutions that meet at least one of the following criteria:
  • Convert environmental and social benefits into economic assets
  • Enhance the financial viability of urban projects through partnerships or innovative ways to reduce project risks
  • Involve local communities in project planning and financing to ensure relevance and strong community buy-in
  • Solutions that use AI or blockchain will be prioritized.

Eligibility Criteria

• The programme is open to startups, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, social enterprises, non-profits, academic institutions, and municipalities.
• Stage: Applicants with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or further developed solutions are encouraged to apply.
• Location registration: Applicants must be based in Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia or Serbia or demonstrate a clear intention to deploy their solution or project there.
• Language: English

For more information, visit Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic.