The global startup ecosystem map and research center StartupBlink has published an index regarding innovation and the business environment for some of the countries of the world. According to this report, Albania holds the 60th place among the 125 countries considered. Meanwhile, at the regional level, it ranks second, after Serbia.

According to the report, Albania has undertaken profound reforms in recent years to improve the business environment, simplifying procedures, reviewing regulations, and strengthening openness to foreign investment. The digitalization of registration and licensing has made starting a business a faster and more routine process, while contributing to the creation of a more secure entrepreneurial community, supported by an increasingly qualified workforce.

The functional category of access to capital and financial infrastructure, which measures the availability of credit, banking connectivity, investment channels, and accessibility of financial assets, represents an area where Albania still has room for further improvement in its performance within the Index. At the parameter level, the corporate tax rate, trade openness, and the lending and borrowing rate are all assessed within the 25% of the Index, contributing positively to the country’s overall performance.

Foreign investment has been placed at the center of economic policies, with a focus on sectors with long-term potential such as technology, tourism, agriculture, and energy. Institutions such as the Albanian Investment Development Agency, the National Business Center, and chambers of commerce have played a key role in facilitating processes and supporting companies. As a result, Albania is consolidating a clearer, more transparent, and predictable business environment for domestic and foreign investors.

Overall, Albania demonstrates a business environment characterized by favorable tax conditions, regulatory improvements, and gradual development of financial access, strengthening its position within the Balkan region.

On the other hand, the United States (first place), Singapore (second place), and the United Kingdom (third place) lead the global ranking of the most favorable business environments. In Europe, the United Kingdom (third place), Switzerland (fourth place), and the Netherlands (seventh place) are among the best countries. Meanwhile, smaller economies such as Estonia (tenth place), Luxembourg (thirteenth place), and New Zealand (eleventh place) all rank within the top 15 global countries, proving that small markets can offer very competitive conditions for innovators.