Slovenia has emerged as a beacon for startups, offering a unique blend of support through its innovative incubator and accelerator model known as Katapult. Founded in the post-coal mining region of Zasavje, Katapult has become a lifeline for entrepreneurs looking to turn their ideas into successful businesses.
Unlike traditional startup accelerators or incubators, Katapult combines the best of both worlds by providing a physical community for startups along with a comprehensive suite of shared services. This includes access to state-of-the-art production equipment, mentoring opportunities, and even seed funding in some cases.
One of the standout success stories from Katapult is Dewesoft, a $100 million company that started as a small startup. Dewesoft's founder, Dr. Jure Knez, realized the challenges faced by entrepreneurs firsthand and decided to create a support system to help budding businesses thrive.
Chipolo, another startup that found success through Katapult, highlights the impact of localized production on product quality and sustainability. By utilizing Katapult's shared factory, Chipolo was able to grow into an international company selling products in 195 countries.
Monodaq, now known as Dewesoft Monitoring, is another shining example of how Katapult has propelled startups to success. Generating €3 million in revenue, Monodaq credits its growth to the mentorship and resources provided by Katapult.
Looking towards the future, Katapult's success has led to plans for expansion with the creation of the 'City of Acrobats.' This ambitious project aims to build an entire city dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and fostering economic development in the Zasavje region.
With over 100 startups having passed through Katapult and several achieving multi-million-dollar status, the initiative has not only transformed individual enterprises but also sparked a cultural shift towards entrepreneurship in Slovenia and beyond.
As Slovenia's Minister of Economic Development and Technology expressed, the City of Acrobats holds the promise of revitalizing the region's economy and creating over 1,000 jobs, signaling a bright future for startups and innovation in the country.
