Slovakia at a Crossroads

Slovakia stands at a critical juncture. As global economic pressures mount and rankings slip, one thing is clear: our nation must embrace innovation, research, and the development of new technologies to remain competitive. We can no longer rely solely on past strategies to attract investment. Instead, we need a forward-thinking approach—one that fosters startups, strengthens research and development (R&D), and prioritizes technical and IT education, especially for women. If we fail to act now, Slovakia risks falling behind in an increasingly digital and knowledge-driven economy.

Innovation in the Digital Age

At AmCham Slovakia, we believe that investing in innovation is the key to unlocking Slovakia’s next competitive advantage. Across the world, thriving economies are those that nurture entrepreneurial ecosystems, support cutting-edge research, and ensure that their workforce has the skills needed for the jobs of the future. Slovakia must follow suit.

Innovation is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. Yet, Slovakia, and the same is true for Europe as a whole, still struggle to translate research into commercial success. Too many promising European startups relocate abroad due to regulatory barriers and a lack of investment opportunities. We need policies that support venture capital, incentivize R&D, and create an environment where businesses can thrive. By embracing sectors like biotech, smart technologies, and AI, Slovakia can position itself as a leader in the next wave of industrial transformation.

A strong economy is built on a skilled workforce. If we are to compete globally, we must invest in education and training programs that equip all citizens—regardless of gender—with the skills necessary to succeed in the digital economy. Encouraging young women to pursue STEM careers and providing reskilling opportunities for workers will be essential to our long-term competitiveness.

Join the Conversation at Future-Ready Slovakia

These challenges demand urgent attention, and AmCham Slovakia is committed to leading the discussion. On May 22-23, we invite you to join us at our flagship conference, Future-Ready Slovakia: Let’s Talk Competitiveness. This high-impact event will bring together top business leaders, policymakers, and innovators to explore how Slovakia can regain its competitive edge.

With a focus on innovation, institutional trust, sustainability, and a strong business environment, this conference will go beyond theory to propose real solutions. The time to act is now. Slovakia has immense potential, but unlocking it requires a bold, strategic approach. Let’s work together to ensure our country is future-ready. Join the conversation, be part of the solution, and help shape Slovakia’s path to long-term prosperity.

Martina Slabejová, Executive Director, AmCham Slovakia