A new project focused on technology and innovation, aimed at empowering young people in Albania and beyond, is underway in the city of Vlora.

The Multifunctional Center for Regional Development is being developed as a public space for technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It will serve as a dynamic hub for startups, cultural, and economic activities, attracting young people from Albania, the region, and around the world. In addition to fostering innovation, the center will generate revenue through various projects, providing a fresh boost to tourism development in Vlora.

Prime Minister Edi Rama visited the construction site today, where a 16-story building is being designed with a unique architectural style. The building will seamlessly blend with the red and black colors of Flag Square and will serve as a bridge between the square and the historic district, strengthening the connection between Vlora’s modern and cultural landmarks.

“We are at the construction site of the Vlora Regional Development Center, which was once an old building symbolizing improper urbanization. Through the redesign by XDGA studio, it is being transformed into a public space that will serve as a technology and innovation center for the Vlora region. At the same time, it will function as a public building, both in terms of its purpose and accessibility. We are now in the final stages of construction, focusing on completing the exterior and dividing the internal spaces. The goal is to create a development center with a focus on technology and innovation, providing a space for startups, young people, and engineers, while also promoting economic activity to ensure financial sustainability,” explained Dritan Agolli, Director of the Albanian Development Fund.

Prime Minister Rama added: “Our ambition is to create a technological hub where we can host even a small part of the leading innovators from the U.S. and Europe, taking advantage of the exceptional conditions that Vlora and Albania offer. With the right legislation for tech parks, we plan to integrate this project into the financial mechanisms for such parks, which will soon create a thriving center for innovation and a vibrant space for young people from Albania and all over the world.” He further noted, “This project will not only give a fresh boost to tourism in Vlora but will also position Albania at a new point on the global map.”