Within the framework of the STARS EU Alliance, the University “Aleksandër Moisiu” Durrës
organized the workshop “Demand-driven innovation: from research to market: from thesis to
startup: turning ideas into real regional solutions.”
The activity took place on 13 May 2026, at the EU Lab, UAMD Campus, and aimed to promote
a stronger connection between scientific research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the concrete
needs of the market and regional ecosystem.
The workshop was organized in line with the objectives of Task 4.2: Foster STARS EU Research
and Innovation Capacity and Task 4.4: Support STARS EU Researchers Communities focusing
on TIGs. These tasks focus on strengthening research and innovation capacities, fostering
entrepreneurial mindsets among researchers, PhD candidates and students, and supporting
research communities around the priority areas of the STARS EU Alliance.
A key focus of the workshop was the transformation of academic and research ideas into
concrete, applicable and market-oriented solutions. Discussions highlighted how thesis topics,
student projects and research initiatives can become the foundation for startup ideas, innovation
projects and practical solutions responding to regional needs.
The activity was enriched by the participation of institutional representatives, academic staff,
researchers, students, and stakeholders from the regional ecosystem, including representatives
from public institutions, business and innovation-related actors. Their involvement created an
important space for dialogue on how universities can serve as bridges between knowledge
creation, market demand and regional development.
The invited speaker of the workshop was Ms. Klodiana Spahiu, Deputy Speaker of the Albanian
Parliament, who shared her perspective on demand-driven innovation, the role of higher
education institutions in economic and social development, and the importance of strengthening
cooperation between academia, public institutions, business and the community.
This workshop contributes directly to the STARS EU objective of fostering research and
innovation capacity across partner universities, while promoting a more open, collaborative and
solution-oriented approach to regional challenges. Through this activity, UAMD reaffirmed its
commitment to supporting applied research, entrepreneurial skills development and stronger
stakeholder engagement.
In the framework of STARS EU, UAMD will continue to support initiatives that empower
students, researchers and academic staff to contribute to regional development, the digital and
green transition, and the creation of a more dynamic innovation ecosystem.
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