In its 2026 Report on Montenegro, the European Commission highlights the important role of the Innovation Fund of Montenegro in implementing the national innovation policy and developing the innovation ecosystem, recognising its contribution through increased financial support, the development of programmes and continued support for innovative companies.
In the section addressing Montenegro’s capacity to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the European Union, the European Commission notes that the Fund plays an important role in implementing the national innovation policy. As an indicator of strengthened institutional support for innovation, the Commission reports that the Fund’s financing increased from EUR 700,000 to EUR 3.2 million between 2022 and 2024.
The same section also recognises the importance of the GovTech programme, which focuses on the development and implementation of innovative digital solutions in the public sector, as one of the instruments supporting the modernisation of public services through innovation.
In Chapter 25, which covers science and research, the European Commission further highlights the continuity of the Fund’s work, noting that it continues to provide grants and support to innovative start-ups and businesses. This assessment confirms the importance of the support instruments developed and implemented by the Fund, aimed at enabling innovative companies to access financing and supporting the development of new products, services and technologies.
The Report also points to broader progress in the development of the national innovation system. Systemic support for the innovation ecosystem is provided through ten dedicated programmes, while public budget allocations for science in Montenegro have almost tripled between 2021 and 2026. However, the European Commission also points to the need to further strengthen the private sector as a driver of innovation, underscoring the importance of continued investment in the development of innovative companies and improving the conditions for their growth and operations.
The recognition of the Fund’s role in the European Commission’s Report represents significant acknowledgement of its position within the national innovation system and the importance of continued support for the development of innovation in Montenegro. At the same time, it highlights opportunities for further strengthening the innovation ecosystem, fostering closer links between science and business, and creating new opportunities for companies developing innovative solutions.
Sources:
European Commission Report on Montenegro 2026, Section 2.3.2, page 64.
European Commission Report on Montenegro 2026, Chapter 25, Science and Research, page 87.
Photo Gallery
