The BOOST Project, a regional initiative led by ALDA, and funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), is making significant strides in strengthening civil society across the Western Balkans. Through its national sub-granting scheme, BOOST has selected ten impactful projects in each of the six Western Balkans countries: North Macedonia, Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, bringing a total of 60 national initiatives that address specific local needs into the fold of democratic transformation. Each awarded initiative aligns with BOOST’s cross-cutting priorities: gender equality, European values, and citizen engagement. These values are embedded within the program’s three strategic pillars. The first, Youth and Entrepreneurship, focuses on empowering young people, fostering social entrepreneurship, and enhancing youth participation in decision-making. The second, Rural Development and Environmental Protection, supports rural initiatives, promotes women’s leadership in rural contexts, and advances environmental sustainability. The third, Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Community Development, leverages cultural heritage as a driver for community growth and economic opportunity The training series began in Albania, from October 21 to 23 and was held in Tirana. Read more on ALDA website.