In an era where global and local economies face mounting challenges, collaboration and sustainable solutions are essential. On September 21, 2023, Tadej Slapnik, CEO of HashNET and President of the Dravinjski Poslovni Klub, organized a business visit to Zagreb. This one-day event offered a unique opportunity to explore some of the most innovative businesses and organizations in Croatia and the region.
The visit began with a scheduled stop at Rimac Automobili, a globally renowned company in the automotive industry known for its cutting-edge electric hypercars. Although confirmation for this visit was pending, it set the tone for a day focused on innovation and technological advancement.
Participants then visited Cotrugli Business School, a leading business school in the region, where they discovered opportunities for further training and professional development.
Lunch provided a moment for informal networking before the group met with representatives of the Croatian-Slovenian Business Club. This session facilitated valuable connections with various businesses and experts engaged in cross-border economic activities.
The day’s highlight was the visit to ZICER—Zagreb Innovation Center—where companies presented their latest projects, followed by B2B meetings to explore potential collaborations.
The event concluded with dinner during the return journey to Slovenske Konjice, offering additional time for participants to reflect and exchange insights gained throughout the day.
Key Takeaways from the Visit:
Participants witnessed how Rimac Automobili has established itself as a global leader in the automotive sector with its groundbreaking electric vehicles. At Cotrugli Business School, the group explored training programs that could enhance their workforce’s skills and contribute to their companies’ growth. Networking with the Croatian-Slovenian Business Club opened doors to new business opportunities. At the same time, the visit to ZICER showcased Croatia’s vibrant innovation ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship and technological advancement.
The visit highlighted the importance of staying competitive in an ever-evolving market. Attendees were encouraged to continually educate themselves and seek out new opportunities to stay ahead of industry trends. Networking remains one of the most powerful tools for business development, and the event offered a unique platform to connect with professionals from diverse industries. Investing in employee training was also emphasized, with Cotrugli’s programs seen as valuable assets for professional and personal growth.
Moreover, the event underscored the significance of regional collaboration for sustainable development. By participating, attendees not only expanded their business networks but also contributed to fostering a broader culture of cooperation and innovation in the region.
Why This Visit Was Worthwhile:
Participants gained first-hand insights into innovative solutions and companies driving the future of business. They had the chance to establish international business connections and exchange best practices with industry peers. Additionally, the event offered opportunities to explore advanced training programs at one of the region’s top business schools.
The visit to Zagreb provided invaluable knowledge, insights, and connections, helping participants prepare for the challenges of the digital age and fostering a spirit of cross-border collaboration. This event demonstrated the power of innovation, education, and networking in driving business success and regional development.
