Implementing New Technologies in Emerging Markets, the T-Blocks way
T-Blocks grew through Swiss EP’s expert mentorship, investment readiness programs, and international exposure. With a strong foundation in blockchain investment, they are driving innovation in emerging markets.
The startup ecosystem in Albania is still in the early phases of development. While early-stage support has become relatively accessible, support for later-stage startups and startups working with cutting-edge technologies is still scarce. Swiss EP is trying to fill this gap.
Two blockchain pioneers, Eni Shtini and Henri Ndreca, first met while recording a local podcast in Tirana in 2021, where they were both invited as speakers. At the time, Eni was running an international consultancy on digital assets, and Henri was a Web3 advisor who had just translated “The Bitcoin Standard” into Albanian. As they engaged in conversation, they soon discovered a shared passion for technology and innovation.
Their combined expertise and complementary personalities created a solid foundation for Henri and Eni to start a business together. T-Blocks was born as a scalable solution for tokenizing high-value assets like real estate and green energy projects in markets where the financial infrastructure is underdeveloped.
Building an innovative business in an emerging market comes with significant opportunities. As the first blockchain-driven investment platform in the region, T-Blocks has a strong early-mover advantage. With the financial market still developing and Albania’s EU integration on the horizon, they are well-positioned for growth. Their platform also taps into the Balkans diaspora, offering a trusted way for those abroad to invest in their home countries.
Being a pioneer also comes with challenges—many local developers and asset owners need education on blockchain, financial regulations are complex, and trust remains a hurdle in the region.
Despite this, T-Bocks has thrived, securing over €500 million in real estate and green energy projects, building strong international partnerships, and establishing the first Balkans-focused fund in Luxembourg with Bakertilly, Swissquote Bank, Mazars, and Deloitte.
So, where does the Swiss EP fit in? In supporting the venture’s investment readiness.
T-Blocks was supported by 11 different Swiss EP experts, working with them through various programs supported by Swiss EP, including the Founders Retreat and Investment Assessment Workshop series.
As a result of our support and their constant work, in late 2024, the team managed to secure 92,000 EUR through grants available in Albania. Henri shares:
We are deeply grateful to all mentors and the broader ecosystem of advisors and experts who have supported us through Swiss EP. Their time, energy, and expertise have significantly contributed to our development. We sincerely thank the Swiss EP team for their relentless support and commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth and success.
A venture’s success is often linked to its capacity to expand its operations internationally, establish international partnerships, and successfully compete globally. Beyond the expert support, Swiss EP also helped Henri participate in the Bits & Pretzel startup event in Munich, Germany, along with two other founders from Albania. This visit was a different way of expanding their customer network, meeting with investors, and learning the latest trends and insights from a dynamic startup ecosystem.
By growing steadily within Albania's emerging market, Eni and Henri have successfully developed a platform to democratize investment and drive lasting economic impact. Their journey shows how technology, strategic partnerships, and education can fuel transformative change—even in complex markets. We hope their role in the financial market and blockchain community in Europe will only grow stronger.