Open Call for the 18th Edition of the LEADER Project: A Premier Program for Business and Entrepreneurship Development in Macedonia

Do you want to turn your business into a true success story? Do you have a great idea but lack the tools to bring it to life? Are you interested in learning how to create opportunities, avoid common mistakes, and accelerate your company’s growth?

Apply to the LEADER Project, one of the most valuable practical learning experiences for entrepreneurs in Macedonia.

Macedonia2025 announces an Open Call for the LEADER Project training program, which will be held for the 18th time in Skopje from April 14 to April 27, 2026.

The LEADER Project is implemented in cooperation with the Ivey Business School at Western University in Canada, a school that has successfully delivered this program since 1991. The program is an intensive 10 day training with elements at an MBA level, designed to encourage and support Macedonian entrepreneurs, young managers, and professionals in developing local, regional, or international business solutions that create new opportunities for social and economic development.

Participants will strengthen their analytical skills and business instincts while working directly with instructors to transform their ideas into viable businesses or introduce innovations within existing companies.

Target Group

• Individuals up to 35 years of age
• Entrepreneurs
• Company owners and managers
• Young professionals who want to develop their business idea or advance their careers
• Anyone interested in deepening their knowledge in business and entrepreneurship

Application Requirements

• Excellent command of the English language
• Strong presentation and communication skills
• An innovative business idea or an existing business with growth potential
• Strong motivation for learning, improvement, and professional development
• Ability to attend all sessions (4 hours each working day)

Key Benefits

• Participants will learn essential tools and skills for effective business management through the interactive case study method.
• They will gain knowledge about every stage of business development, including strategy, finance, marketing, promotion, sales, and growth.
• They will identify key challenges and obstacles together with the instructors.
• Individual mentoring sessions with instructors or mentors from Macedonia2025 will be available.

Lectures are prepared and delivered by highly qualified instructors from the Ivey Business School in Canada.

Program Format

The program is delivered in person and consists of 10 sessions of 4 hours each, including case studies, lectures, and entrepreneurial coaching.

Date and Location

April 14–27, 2026, every working day for 4 hours in Skopje. The exact location will be announced additionally.

Application Process

Complete the application HERE and upload the following:

• Completed application form
• CV in English (Europass or similar format)
• Short biography in English (up to 200 words)
• High-resolution photo

Selection Process

Applications will first undergo an administrative review by Macedonia2025. If necessary, applicants may be asked to submit additional documents or participate in a short interview. The final selection of participants will be completed by April 3, 2026, and applicants will be notified of the results by the same date.

Participation Fee

The full value of the training program is €500. Participants pay a symbolic fee of €70 + VAT, while the remaining cost is covered by Macedonia2025.

Important

Certificates will be awarded only to participants who attend at least 8 days of the program. Selected participants are expected to take part in future activities organized by Macedonia2025 and to complete a post-program evaluation of the training’s impact.

Applications are now open.

Application deadline: March 15, 2026, at 23:59.

Places are limited, so do not miss this unique opportunity.