The Startup Ecosystem of Bosnia and Herzegovina

These challenges have prompted numerous skilled IT professionals to offer their services remotely to Western companies, leading to a brain drain as talented Bosnians seek better opportunities abroad. International organizations play a crucial role in supporting private sector development in Bosnia and Herzegovina. One notable initiative is the EU4Business project, introduced by a consortium comprising German GIZ, UNDP, and ILO, which aims to assist startups in job creation. Additionally, the Burch Incubator, a joint venture between SwissEP and International Burch University, is working to foster youth entrepreneurship in the country.

Various private and non-profit organizations, such as the Ministry of Programming, STARTER, HUB387, Intera Technology Park, Foundation 787, and Foundation Mozaik, are key players in the local ecosystem. Although the Bosnian startup scene covers a broad range of industries, including ecommerce, blockchain, and HR, the country is yet to focus on a specific sector. The IT outsourcing industry remains popular, but with the right incentives, Sarajevo has the potential to evolve into a significant technology hub in the Balkan region.

Efforts to streamline administrative processes and create networking opportunities are essential for nurturing the startup ecosystem in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The development of a supportive infrastructure, coupled with strategic partnerships and investment, will be instrumental in driving growth, innovation, and success within the country’s startup industry.