RECONOMY

RECONOMY is an inclusive and green economic development programme funded by Sweden and implemented by Helvetas in the Eastern Partnership and Western Balkan countries, including Kosovo. It supports systemic changes in labour markets and business ecosystems. In Kosovo, the programme focuses on unlocking opportunities for youth, women, and disadvantaged groups by improving how markets, institutions, and private sector actors function together. Its interventions span key growth sectors such as digital jobs, ICT and outsourcing, tourism, green construction, circular economy, and transport and logistics, with a strong emphasis on partnerships, innovation, and long-term sustainability.

In Kosovo, RECONOMY supports stronger and more inclusive labour market systems by connecting people to decent work and improving employment services. In partnership with the Kosovo Employment Agency (EARK) and the Swedish Public Employment Service, it has contributed to strengthening active labour market policies, upgrading the SuperPuna platform, and introducing a case management approach that enables more personalised and effective support for job seekers, particularly those from vulnerable groups. This has resulted in improved service delivery and increased efficiency in linking young people with employers.

A key area of intervention is Kosovo’s growing digital economy, where RECONOMY has supported the establishment of the Association of Business Service Leaders (ABSL Kosovo), strengthening private sector coordination in the ICT and BPO industries and improving the country’s positioning as an outsourcing destination. Through support to the startup ecosystem under the Western Balkans Startup Alliance, interventions have also contributed to increased incomes, business growth, and investment mobilisation, further strengthening the innovation ecosystem.

In tourism, RECONOMY has supported Kosovo’s integration into the Trans Dinarica regional cycling route, creating new income opportunities for rural communities and small businesses. The development of digital tools and partnerships, including with financial service providers, has further improved financial inclusion and service accessibility for local tourism operators.

The programme also supports Kosovo’s transition towards a greener economy. Through the Kosovo Green Building Council (KGBC), RECONOMY is advancing sustainable construction practices, energy efficiency, and the adoption of green building standards, while also contributing to income generation, private investment, and sector capacity building.

In parallel, RECONOMY invests in digital skills and employment pathways through partnerships with training providers and platforms such as KUDO Accounting, Growzillas Academy, Next Gen Networks, and TalentsLink. These initiatives have enabled thousands of individuals to access training, employment, freelancing opportunities, and increased income, while also attracting co-investment from the private sector.

Finally, RECONOMY supports the development of circular economy approaches and regional cooperation, including the establishment of the Western Balkans Circular Economy Hub in partnership with regional chambers of commerce and research institutions. It also contributes to skills development in transport and logistics through regional curriculum development in collaboration with industry partners.

Through these interconnected interventions, in Kosovo demonstrates how systemic, partnership-driven approaches can generate measurable economic opportunities while strengthening institutions and enabling more inclusive and sustainable growth.