Context
The goal of this project was to develop policy insights to inform a larger European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) initiative focused on enhancing competitiveness, with an emphasis on SMEs, green growth, and innovation, across the six Western Balkan countries and the broader regional level. The project identified actionable priority interventions for each partner country, to be implemented with EBRD support. CEVES is a lead, other consortium members are Finance Think partner (North Macedonia), Riinvest Institute partner (Kosovo), Prof Soana Jaupllari partner (Albania).
CEVES's Role
Lead a regional consortium tasked with identification and prioritization of actionable competitiveness policy measures for country implementation with EBRD support. Focus on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), addressing key structural barriers and catalyzing regional cooperation. Updates of the policy studies are scheduled for 2026 and 2027.
Key results and impact
• Produced seven Competitiveness Policy Priority studies (six national, one regional), proposing 63 policy measures based on previously developed selection criteria
• Grounded in robust data analysis, 150+ stakeholder interviews, and validation workshops
• Informed donor and IFI programming (EBRD, EU, bilateral agencies) and aligned national strategies with EU integration priorities
• Facilitated policy dialogue across governments, private sector, and development partners, and strengthened regional cooperation among think tanks and policymakers
• Positioned MSME competitiveness at the core of sustainable growth and regional development agendas in the Western Balkans
Types of Services Provided
• Policy research & analysis
• Strategic policy advisory – identified and prioritized actionable policy measures
• Stakeholder engagement & facilitation – carried out interviews, surveys, and consultation workshops with policymakers, business leaders, and development partners
• Consortium leadership & coordination – managed a regional network of think tanks, ensured quality of deliverables, and fostered regional knowledge exchange
• Reporting & dissemination – authored national reports and regional report, presented findings to stakeholders
