Session: Tourism-Agri-Food-Processing Innovation, Sustainability and Economic Growthb

Dr. Shkelzen Marku is a seasoned development economist and social entrepreneurship advocate with over two decades of experience in fostering inclusive economic growth across the Western Balkans and beyond. As the Co-founder and Managing Director of Yunus Social Business Balkans (YSB Balkans), he has been instrumental in building a robust ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs to address social challenges through sustainable business models.

Under his leadership, YSB Balkans has supported over 800 entrepreneurs through capacity-building programs and facilitated more than €2.3 million in investments to startups, contributing to the creation and sustenance of over 1,400 jobs in the region . Dr. Marku’s expertise encompasses the design and implementation of financial and non-financial instruments aimed at bolstering social enterprises and SMEs.

Beyond his role at YSB Balkans, Dr. Marku has served as a consultant and advisor on economic development policies for various international organizations, including the World Bank, IFAD, FAO, UNDP, and GIZ, working in over 15 countries across the Western Balkans, Caucasus, Africa, and Asia . He holds a Master of Science degree in Agribusiness Economy from CIHEAM-IAMM (France) and a Doctorate in Economic Development Policies from the Agricultural University of Tirana, Albania.