What does the real journey of an innovator look like – from the first idea to a finished product? What does it mean to start a business, develop something new, and face market uncertainties at the same time? These and many other questions were answered by entrepreneurs who participated in the roundtable entitled “Challenges and Growth of Innovative Entrepreneurs.”
The roundtable provided a unique opportunity to bring together creators of new products, startup enthusiasts, tech solution developers, and actors from the real economy – all in one place – to openly and honestly share what it truly means to be an innovative entrepreneur.
Roundtable took place at the Entrepreneurial Incubator Vinkovci on June 27, 2025, as part of the Acceleration Programme implemented by HAMAG BICRO in cooperation with the Regional Consortium for the Support and Development of New Services and Products with lead partner Competence Centre Ltd. for research and development.
In the opening remarks, the innovators and startups were welcomed by: Dr. Darko Dimić, Deputy Prefect of Vukovar-Srijem County, Hrvoje Niče, mag.oec., Head of the Administrative Department for Economy of the City of Vinkovci, Josip Gilja, mag.oec., Director of the Vinkovci Technology Park, and Hrvoje Rukavina, struc. spec. oec., Senior Project Manager at the Competence Centre Ltd. for Research and Development.
Entrepreneurs who participated in the roundtable:
- PALAČINKE IDEJA d.o.o.
- Regulus Advanced Systems d.o.o.
- Obrt AP-Metal
- Obrt TORUS INC.
- VU-CREATOR j.d.o.o.
- Agro Perfectum d.o.o.
- GUIDE for YOU d.o.o.
Innovators and startups spoke about four themes:
- first steps and their motivation to enter entrepreneurship,
- innovative solutions development, initial market feedback, and the importance of user input,
- scaling challenges, hiring, and organizing operations and
- networking, future plans, and advice for new generations of innovators.
The atmosphere at the event was both professional and informal – everyone had the opportunity to talk about their own challenges and successes, as well as hear how others had gone through a similar journey. The concluding social gathering with refreshments further encouraged networking and laid the groundwork for future collaborations.
Roundtable showcased the immense potential, expertise, and passion among young innovative entrepreneurs in our region. We thank all participants for their contributions and we look forward to continuing cooperation on new products and services development.
