9:00-10:00 Economic security in the Balkans: how to protect national interests while pursuing
economic growth?
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Speaker: Ana Krstinovska (President of ESTIMA, IVLP 2016)
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This talk will inspire a discussion how the Western Balkans can adapt to the shifting economic security landscape amid global disruptions and growing geopolitical tensions. It will examine how the region can enhance its competitiveness, deepen strategic partnerships, and play a proactive role in boosting economic growth, while protecting national security and interests.
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10:00-13:00 Project Pitching and Brainstorming: Developing Ideas for Country Small Grants
In this session, participants will be divided into country-specific groups to brainstorm project ideas that address broadening alumni engagement within their communities. Each group will work on developing a project outline, focusing on strengthening alumni communities and impact. Once the project ideas are developed, each group will transform their concept into a compelling Ignite-style presentation.
13:00-13:30 Coffee and Tea break
13:30-15:00 Final Presentations and Feedback Panel
In this concluding session, each country group will formally present their alumni engagement project proposals following an ignite-style short format, allowing participants to pitch their initiatives to an expert panel and receive constructive feedback.
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Presentation Format & Flow:
Presentation Time: Each team will have 5 minutes to present their small grant idea.
Q&A/Feedback: Following each pitch, the expert panel will provide 5 minutes of feedback and ask clarifying questions.
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What the Presentations Should Include:
Context/Problem Statement: Briefly outline the issue the project aims to address.
Proposed Idea/Intervention: Describe the main initiative or solution.
Key Stakeholders/Partners: Highlight the people or organizations involved in the project.
Anticipated Impact: Discuss the expected outcomes, scalability, and sustainability.
Clear Ask: Clearly state what is needed next (e.g., support, funding, visibility).
Feedback Panel Composition:
U.S. Embassy Representatives, including Public Affairs staff, Regional and International Investors or Innovation experts, Civil Society Leaders and alumni with project implementation and advocacy experience, Donor Agency, Representatives or development fund experts.
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Criteria for Evaluation & Feedback:
Clarity: Is the idea communicated effectively and concisely?
Feasibility: Can the project realistically be implemented with available resources?
Relevance: Does the idea address a real and pressing need in the region?
Scalability & Sustainability: Can the project be replicated and sustained over time?
Alignment: Does the project align with the broader goals and values of the Summit?
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Outcome: This session will provide participants the opportunity to showcase their ideas, receive valuable feedback, and gain visibility. The goal is to help teams refine their proposals and open doors to potential support networks and resources for further development.
​Closing Remarks
15:00-16:00 Networking and Lunch
20:00-22:00 Gala Night: Celebrating MAAA’s 25-year-anniversary
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Venue: Ballroom 1 (Hotel Marriott, Skopje)
Music by Chamber Orchestra Bitola