Cybersecurity, waste management, renewable energy, and energy efficiency are key focus areas of the projects in the Western Balkans funded through Public and Private Finance for Development project.
In 2025, four groundbreaking projects were launched across the Western Balkans. Each of them is designed to address key sustainability challenges while fostering economic and social development. These initiatives, part of the Investing in SDGs programme under the Public and Private Finance for Development project, reflect the commitment of the Ministry of Finance of the Slovak Republic (MFSR) and UNDP to integrate private sector engagement into development cooperation.
Recognizing the need for tailored solutions, the Investing in SDGs programme adopts a demand-driven approach, ensuring full alignment with the local and national needs. Through the Investing in SDGs programme, several projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia have recently received support. The projects focus on critical areas such as cybersecurity, waste management, renewable energy, and industrial efficiency. Besides financial support, Slovakia will also provide its experience and expertise in the mentioned areas.
Cybersecurity in Water Services Management
Country: North Macedonia
As digital infrastructure becomes an integral part of public services, ensuring the cybersecurity of water management systems is essential. This project enhances resilience to cyber threats in North Macedonia, ensuring safe and uninterrupted access to clean water while fostering digital transformation in the sector.
In particular, the project aims to strengthen the cybersecurity of water service providers, improve coordination with national cybersecurity agencies, and foster a safer, resilient water management infrastructure.
Reducing Waste and Rethinking Waste Management
Waste management is becoming an increasingly pressing challenge in Montenegro. In response, the project is focused on enhancing the country’s waste management system. Inspired by Slovakia, the initiative aims to integrate the collection, storage and use of municipal waste in the city of Podgorica and its surroundings. The project aims to improve waste collection, increase recycling rates and align national practices with EU environmental standards. The main focus of recycling will be to reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and to use it as a new source of raw materials or energy.
The project also seeks to promote behavioural change among citizens and businesses.
Unlocking Geothermal Energy Potential
The transition to renewable energy requires strategic investments and adequate policies. This project creates a favourable environment for the adoption of geothermal energy for heating in Serbia.
Its goal is to support public and private sector investment decisions in adopting geothermal energy as a sustainable alternative to natural gas and fossil fuels. Additionally, the project aims to secure financing for the planned projects. To achieve this, public sector partners in Serbia are being connected with relevant EU stakeholders and international financial institutions.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Industry
Country: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Energy certification is an essential step towards energy efficiency in public and private buildings. The development of a market for energy certificates will contribute to evidence-based investment decisions and stimulate new investments in this sector. The aim of this project is to stimulate investments to improve energy efficiency, reduce energy consumption, improve the working environment and promote the use of green energy. The adoption of energy-efficient practices also means driving innovation and sustainability across key industries.
Collaboration leading to results
These projects demonstrate the importance of collaboration between public institutions, investors, and development organizations. By leveraging financial resources, technical expertise, and innovative approaches, the Investing in SDGs programme is paving the way for sustainable growth and economic resilience in the Western Balkans.