SkillALB – Multiple Skills Programme for Albanian Youth
SkillALB is a national, multi-partner initiative funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation that aims to strengthen the employability and social inclusion of young people in Albania. The project focuses on enhancing professional, entrepreneurial, digital, and life skills among youth aged 15–35, especially those in vocational education or seeking employment. Through targeted training, career guidance, digital innovation, and startup support, the program helps young people access new opportunities in the labour market. Junior Achievement of Albania contributes to the entrepreneurship component by equipping young innovators with the knowledge, tools and mentorship needed to launch sustainable business ideas. Overall, the project creates pathways toward employment, self-employment, and long-term economic empowerment.
Key Activities
Digitalisation of VET schools and centres and delivery of updated training programs.
Career guidance services, job orientation desks, soft skills training and internships for young jobseekers.
Training cycles on business startup and management, including mentoring, prototype development and funding access.
Startup financing program and monitoring support for youth-led businesses.
Participation in national and international fairs to build partnerships and promote youth entrepreneurship
Activities Implemented by Junior Achievement of Albania
Deliver two incubation-style training cycles on business start-up and management for 40 young innovators.
Provide tailored mentoring, specialised workshops, and hands-on sessions covering business planning, market research, financial management, marketing strategies, and entrepreneurial soft skills.
Support participants in refining business ideas into viable prototypes.
Facilitate networking opportunities, pitch exposure, and connections to potential investors, mentors, and partners.
Foster collaboration among young entrepreneurs through peer-learning and interaction with industry experts.
Beneficiaries
At least 1,500 young people aged 15–35 in VET schools or seeking employment/self-employment.
At least 100 teachers, trainers and youth workers involved in training and guidance.
40 young innovators directly supported through JAA’s incubation program.
Impact & Expected Results
The project is expected to create a tangible positive impact on the professional pathways of young people, providing them with the skills, opportunities, and support needed to build sustainable futures. Through strong collaboration between institutions and partner organizations, youth will gain greater access to training, career guidance, and entrepreneurial development opportunities.
Improved employability of young people through strengthened digital, entrepreneurial and professional skills.
Increased opportunities for youth to access training, mentorship and startup financing.
Enhanced effectiveness of VET institutions in digital innovation, career guidance and job placement services.
Development of sustainable youth-led businesses supported through structured incubation and funding pathways.
Increased social and economic inclusion of young people, contributing to reducing migration pressures and strengthening Albania’s long-term societal resilience.