The European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) officially opened the “EIT Community Hub Serbia” in Belgrade’s Ložionica, as part of the Biotech Future Forum. The new hub will connect Serbian and international researchers, startups, and companies with European innovation networks, funding opportunities, and collaborative platforms.
State Secretary at the Ministry of Science, Technological Development, and Innovation, Marija Gnjatović, said that the launch marks Serbia’s entry into the European innovation ecosystem, providing a strong bridge between science and business. “With the opening of the EIT Community Hub, Serbia gains much more than a new organization — it gains a new path toward the European innovation space and a chance to strengthen its participation in European investment and innovation flows,” Gnjatović stated.
She emphasized that the hub will serve as a space “where ideas turn into projects, projects into products, and products into sustainable solutions for today’s biggest challenges.” She added that EU support plays a crucial role in the development of Serbia’s research and innovation community, helping the country adopt the best European practices and models.
Gnjatović highlighted that the ministry’s goal is to create a stable framework for innovation growth through improved regulations, stronger science–industry cooperation, and the establishment of technology transfer and business development offices within research institutions.
Plamena Halačeva, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, said that the opening of the hub lays “the foundation for accelerating innovation in Serbia and strengthening its position on Europe’s innovation map.”
She noted that the center connects local and regional innovators with Europe’s most dynamic networks, aiming to enhance Serbia’s innovation ecosystem and support its transition to a knowledge-based economy. “The hub is not only an opportunity for local innovation but also a gateway to the global market and cutting-edge technological trends,” she said.
Halačeva added that this milestone marks the beginning of “a new, innovative Serbia” — one capable of attracting talent, investments, and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
She recalled that Serbia had no technology parks 50 years ago, but thanks to substantial EU support, it now has a network of six technology and research parks serving as key sources of innovation. She expressed optimism that Serbia will continue to increase its investment in research and development, from the current 1% of GDP to at least 2% in the coming years.
Halačeva concluded that Serbia’s growing scientific and innovation potential, along with upcoming large-scale research projects, will bring the country even closer to the EU, providing a strong platform for new partnerships, ideas, and ambitions.
