The EU for Circular Economy and Livable Cities (EU4CELC) - Bio-Waste Innovation Challenge (BWIC) Project

  • Project Name
    Unlocking Potential from Biodegradable Waste in Albania
  • Project Phase
    October 2025 to July 2026
  • Funding
    Supported by EU4Circular Economy and Livable Cities, co-financed by the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), implemented by GIZ
  • Thematic focus
    Green Transition

The Bio-Waste Innovation Challenge supports Albanian businesses, start-ups and local actors to transform biodegradable waste into practical circular economy solutions. By financing and mentoring innovative ideas, the project helps reduce organic waste, create green business opportunities and demonstrate new models for Albania’s transition towards a greener and more resource efficient economy.

 

How the project works

The project starts with an open call for bio-waste innovation ideas, followed by the selection of promising businesses and start-ups. Selected participants take part in a hackathon to refine their concepts and develop viable business models, supported by mentoring and technical assistance. The most promising solutions receive grant support, after which their implementation is monitored and evaluated. Throughout the process, results and lessons learned are documented and shared to inform future initiatives.

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Innovation in Practice

Helvetas Albania promotes innovative approaches to transform bio-waste into valuable resources. The challenge supports entrepreneurs, start-ups, and local actors to design scalable solutions that reduce waste and generate economic opportunities.

Accountability & Participation

The project engages businesses, civil society, and communities in shaping sustainable waste management practices. Transparent financing mechanisms and participatory approaches ensure accountability and inclusiveness in the transition to a circular economy.

Policy Development

Helvetas Albania works with systemic actors to integrate circular economy principles into Albania’s policy frameworks. By embedding bio-waste innovation into national strategies, the project contributes to long-term institutionalization of sustainable practices.

Technical Assistance

Continuous support is provided to innovators and stakeholders through training, mentoring, and knowledge-sharing. This capacity building ensures that solutions are not only piloted but sustained, creating lasting impact in Albania’s green economy.

Impact & Metrics

  • Innovative projects financed to tackle biodegradable waste challenges.

  • New green jobs created through circular economy models.

  • Increased awareness and adoption of sustainable practices among businesses and communities.

Partnerships & Sustainability

Helvetas Albania collaborates with systemic actors, private sector partners, and civil society to embed circular economy practices into Albania’s economic systems. Sustainability and institutionalization are central, ensuring that bio-waste innovation becomes a permanent driver of green growth.

Human Dimension

Beyond environmental benefits, BWIC supports people and businesses that are willing to turn waste into value. Entrepreneurs gain access to mentoring and financing, farmers and local businesses can benefit from new circular services, and communities benefit from cleaner environments and more sustainable waste practices.

 

Learn more about the selected solutions, project updates and circular economy opportunities through Circular Hub.

 

Contact our experts
Project Manager
Gramos Osmani

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Regional Senior Advisor
Valbona Karakaçi

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