29.04 2021
Through the Regional Program for Inclusive Economic Development in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans, the Swedish government supports the development of the Montenegrin ICT cluster Cortex with the help of German Help and their partner organization Swiss Helvetas.
The organization for the development of new technologies ICT Cortex and Help signed an Agreement today in order to support the development of the Montenegrin ICT cluster within the project “Reconomy”, which Help is implementing in partnership with Helvetas (Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation).
“Reconomy” is a new project that will support the development of skills, knowledge and mediation in the Western Balkans. It will contribute to the better functioning of business services, the provision of a skilled workforce, as well as the promotion of the regional brand.
The Cortex ICT cluster intends to achieve these goals through the harmonization, organization and certification of trainings, by supporting internationalization, strengthening export potential and by strengthening the IT sector as a strategic industry at the national level. Cluster members are expected to train 100 people in the IT sector by the end of the “Reconomy” project.
In practice, it will also mean branding the region by stimulating the competitiveness of private sector enterprises and creating a critical mass of skilled women, youth and other marginalized groups to generate more inclusive and sustainable development.
The purpose of the Agreement signed with ICT Cortex is to create a business environment that eliminates barriers to faster development of the IT industry, better and safer business for members of the ICT cluster, expansion into other markets and digitalization of the state apparatus and economy of Montenegro.
“We are pleased that we are recognized by Help as an inclusive association that aims to create an environment for strengthening the IT sector and creating conditions for the IT sector to become the backbone of the future development of Montenegro. We believe that we will justify the given trust and make the best use of financial assistance that is important for us in positioning ICT Cortex and raising public awareness of the importance of the existence of such an association, as well as promoting the education programs we plan” –announced the ICT cluster Cortex.
“This program is an opportunity for us to provide access to a new, future-oriented sector – young people – by enabling them to acquire modern digital skills that will ensure a decent life in their countries,” said Klaus Mock, Regional Help Coordinator.
The activities to be funded by Help focus on the initial actions planned by the ICT cluster and facilitate the launch of the long-term activities in Montenegro and the Western Balkans. Help through this contract supports the cluster in launching a campaign that will consist of a series of marketing activities aimed at raising awareness of the existence of the cluster.
In addition, Help will also fund the creation of a bilingual website, a graphic standards book, and the development of HR software.
