In a time when the domestic economy is facing a series of challenges – from a shortage of labor, accelerated digital changes to the ever-increasing need to adapt to global market trends – micro, small and medium entrepreneurs once again have the opportunity to receive strong support in the form of top-tier education. Specifically, the fifth season of the Uplift akademija is starting, an educational program unique to the Croatian market that offers micro and small entrepreneurs, caterers, and family farm owners the opportunity for concrete business growth, networking, and acquiring new knowledge crucial for the future of their business.

The program, endorsed by Mastercard and Sveučilište Algebra Bernays, has so far transformed the business of more than 130 small entrepreneurs from all parts of Croatia, and this year it will offer additional value through as many as 32 fully funded scholarships. Applications are open until October 1, 2025, and participation in the program is completely free for scholarship recipients.

Education tailored to small entrepreneurs

Although they make up as much as 99.6% of the Croatian economy, small entrepreneurs very rarely have access to systematic education adapted to their challenges. The Uplift akademija changes that – it offers an interactive, thematically structured program that combines theoretical knowledge with practical business solutions, with direct access to mentors and experts from the field. Through ten thematic modules, participants will cover key topics such as leadership and guidance, digital transformation, artificial intelligence in marketing, financial management, and customer experience.

The program runs from November 2025 to March 2026, through a combination of online lectures, mentoring support, and the development of individual business projects. In the final phase of the education, participants will present their projects to potential investors, and the best team will also win a special monetary prize.

Networking as a foundation for growth

The new season also brings an increased focus on networking, which in previous generations of Uplift has proven to be an extremely valuable tool for strengthening the entrepreneurial community. Connecting, exchanging experiences, and mutual support among participants from different parts of Croatia encourage joint development and long-term business collaborations.

That is why this year the organizers have included two key networking events: the first during the Freshman Party which marks the beginning of the academy, and then during the two-day meeting at the St. Ivan's Fortress in Šibenik, which gives participants the opportunity to further strengthen ties, exchange knowledge, and develop business ideas in an inspiring environment.

A platform for growth and international promotion

The Uplift akademija goes beyond the framework of an educational program – it is a broader initiative that also includes additional educational resources available on the uplift.hr platform. In addition to the availability of educational articles, recorded webinars, and business support tools, Uplift akademija alumni also have access to additional projects such as collaboration with Mastercard's global platform priceless.com, which enables the international promotion of Croatian products and services.

“The Uplift akademija shows year after year how much knowledge empowers individuals and the community. The fourth generation of participants achieved exceptional results in engagement, satisfaction, and the concrete application of acquired knowledge. The new, fifth season starts with an additional emphasis on connection and providing opportunities for growth,” said Igor Kundić, program manager at Sveučilište Algebra Bernays.

Who can apply?

Owners of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises and family farms operating in tourism, catering, services, and related activities can apply for the scholarship. It is important that their business contributes to the improvement of the tourist offer and the general economic development of Croatia through the creation of added value.

The Uplift akademija is designed to respond to the specific challenges faced by these very entrepreneurs – from business modernization and digital presence to financial sustainability and team management.

Applications open until October 1, 2025

To participate, you need to fill out the online application form available on the official website uplift.hr/akademija. Candidates should describe their business, the challenges they face, and their motivation for participating in the program. Applications are accepted until October 1, 2025, and participants will be selected based on their potential for growth, innovation, and willingness to learn.

“When we launched Uplift, we knew we could help entrepreneurs with knowledge. What surprises us again and again is how much they can help each other. That is why we continue to strengthen the Uplift community through new digital content and international platforms,” pointed out Gea Kariž, director of Mastercard in Croatia.

At a time when flexibility, digital agility, and quality of service are becoming conditions for survival in the market, programs like Uplift can be crucial for the long-term success of smaller business entities. Take this opportunity – because investing in knowledge today means a competitive advantage tomorrow.