The cities of the Western Balkans face a pressing challenge: securing the necessary funds for sustainable growth and development. Strict regulations, limited budgets, and investor hesitation often make it difficult to finance urban projects that offer immense public value but low financial returns. To address these barriers, UNDP has launched the BOOST: Urban Future Finance acceleration programme, aiming to develop and scale innovative financial solutions that can transform urban areas in the region.
The programme, running from October 21, 2024, to April 30, 2025, seeks to empower startups, enterprises, municipalities, and other key players with the tools and support needed to unlock the financial potential of urban projects. It encourages a forward-thinking approach to overcoming the financing roadblocks that have long hindered urban progress in the Western Balkans.
Why the BOOST Programme?
Cities in the region are struggling to demonstrate the financial value of sustainable projects, making it difficult to attract investment and engage local communities. By providing a platform for innovative financing solutions, the BOOST programme aims to make a lasting impact on green and inclusive urban development.
The programme is open to various applicants, including startups, social enterprises, non-profits, academic institutions, municipalities, and micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from eligible countries such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo (as per UNSCR 1244), Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.
What Participants Can Expect
BOOST will onboard up to 20 teams working on innovative solutions with high potential for scalability and impact. The selected participants will have access to a comprehensive support system that includes:
- BOOSTCamp: A four-week intensive camp featuring an in-person event in November, offering hands-on experiences and networking opportunities with industry experts.
- Tailored Training Sessions: Designed to help participants fast-track their solutions towards market readiness and scalability, these sessions cover crucial areas like business model development, impact measurement, and innovative financing strategies.
- Exclusive Mentorship: Participants will receive guidance from industry professionals with expertise in areas such as urban development, financing, and sustainability.
- Matchmaking Opportunities: Teams will have the chance to connect with cities that are ready to test and implement cutting-edge solutions.
- Financial and Technical Support: UNDP, along with investors and partners, will provide access to funding and technical resources.
- Lifelong Alumni Network: Participants will gain access to a global network of fellow innovators, providing ongoing support, collaboration, and valuable connections.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to a diverse range of applicants, including:
- Startups
- Academic institutions
- Municipalities
- Non-profits
- Social enterprises
- Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises
- Universities
Applicants must have a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or a further developed solution and must be registered or planning to deploy their solution in one of the eligible Western Balkan countries.
Join the Q&A Session
Interested applicants can attend a Q&A session on October 10 at 11:00 CET to learn more about the programme and the application process. You can register for the session or write to [email protected] for more information.
Supporting Urban Futures
The BOOST: Urban Future Finance programme is supported by the Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic and aims to foster resilient, sustainable urban development in the Western Balkans. If you’re passionate about transforming cities through innovative financing, this programme is your chance to make a lasting impact.
For more details on how to apply, visit the official UNDP BOOST page and register your interest today!
