The American Chamber of Commerce in Albania has brought together young entrepreneurs and innovators through the establishment of the “Youth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation” Committee, a new platform designed to encourage strategic thinking and bold, forward-looking ideas among emerging professionals. The Committee was officially launched in partnership with the U.S. Embassy, reflecting a shared commitment to cultivating the American spirit of entrepreneurship within a new generation of value-driven, purpose-oriented leaders. The event was intentionally held at American Corner Tirana, a venue that embodies American excellence in culture, education, science, and technology.
Held in the presence of the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy, Ms. Nancy VanHorn, the launch brought together not only the Committee’s members and leadership, but also AmCham’s Board of Directors, Premium Members, and Committee Chairs. In her remarks, Ms. VanHorn underscored the symbolic importance of the occasion, as the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its Independence, a nation built by entrepreneurs and innovators. “This is a new platform where young entrepreneurs can engage with American business expertise and turn ideas into opportunity,” she stated.
While moderating the event, Executive Director Neritan Mullaj described the initiative as “not simply a new structure within the Chamber, but a vision shaped by the Board’s conviction in the power of youth, innovation, and collective action.” AmCham President Grant Van Cleve also voiced his support, emphasizing that connecting entrepreneurs and innovators, particularly in Albania, with American expertise will remain a central priority for AmCham.
The ambition and vision behind the initiative were presented by AmCham Vice President Rexhino Çekrezi, the driving force behind the Committee’s establishment. He noted that the initiative has benefited from the support of the U.S. Embassy since its earliest stages.” Our mission is clear: to connect young entrepreneurs and innovators with the standards, experience, and networks of the AmCham business community, and to translate those connections into tangible results,” he stated. He further emphasized that AmCham member companies represent not only American leadership in technology, products, and services, but also a business culture that rewards merit and values new ideas. “I have experienced this firsthand. After returning to Albania, I received genuine trust and support from AmCham members,” he added.
The Committee’s leaders and members represent a diverse, cross-sector community of companies and business profiles. Through their executive and managerial roles, they bring the optimism, energy, and collaborative spirit of a generation that dares to challenge established standards and embrace technology not merely as a tool, but as a transformative mindset.
This forward-looking approach, driven by change and innovation, was reflected in their presentations. Klint Berdica, Chair of the “Youth, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Committee”, introduced the Committee’s work plan, outlining four key priorities that will guide its activities. First, promoting American and transatlantic business values by introducing young leaders to the principles of ethical leadership, accountability, and structured decision-making through knowledge exchange and international networking.
Equally important is supporting generational transition within Albanian businesses by encouraging mentorship and dialogue between founders and emerging leaders, thereby strengthening governance, competitiveness, and long-term sustainability. The Committee also aims to foster ethical and sustainable innovation by connecting young leaders with global expertise and encouraging ideas that generate lasting economic impact. At the same time, it will enhance cooperation among AmCham committees and American Chambers abroad, facilitating knowledge exchange, aligning initiatives, and ensuring the effective transfer of best practices to Albania’s business environment.
