The Rise of Local Entrepreneurs: Small Business Culture in the South

When I first moved to Saranda full-time, I didn’t expect to fall so deeply in love with the rhythm of this place. It’s not just the sunsets over the Ionian or the smell of grilled fish drifting out from the little beachside tavernas—it’s the people. And lately, there’s something really exciting happening here: the rise of local entrepreneurs who are shaping the south of Albania in such creative and unexpected ways.  

These aren’t big corporations rolling in. They’re young couples opening smoothie bars in Ksamil, fishermen-turned-hospitality-owners building beachfront bungalows, and families converting their homes into cozy guesthouses with killer seaviews. It’s personal. It’s passionate. And honestly? It’s starting to transform the entire feel of the Albanian Riviera.  

A Shift You Can Feel  

You know that little taverna just past Borsh beach—the one with the faded Coca-Cola umbrella and the old man who grills the catch of the day over open flames? That place has been there forever. But now, just across the road, his granddaughter opened a pop-up espresso bar with cold brew, oat milk, and handmade almond cookies. They work side-by-side. The contrast is beautiful.  

There’s something in the air right now—like a new generation is waking up to the potential of this region, and they’re doing it their own way. No massive developments or soulless resorts. Just real people, taking what they know and love, and building businesses that reflect it.  

And the beauty is, many of these small ventures are tied closely to the real estate market. Where once someone might have sold their family home to a developer, now they’re renovating it themselves. Turning it into boutique rentals, studios, or Airbnb-ready apartments. I’ve seen it again and again.  

Last week, I showed a client a stunning seaview penthouse in Ksamil — this one right here . The moment they stepped onto the terrace and saw the mountains meet the sea, they just stood there in silence. And I get it. That view feels like possibility. Like a dream waiting to be built on.  

Why Entrepreneurs Are Choosing the South  

Saranda has always had its charm. I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast. But now, with more infrastructure, growing tourism, and whispers of EU integration, locals are seeing opportunity where they once only saw family land or seasonal work.  

And it’s not just in Saranda. Ksamil is buzzing, too. There are a few newly built properties near the beach that are perfect for people looking to open a small guesthouse or rent seasonally—like this duplex with pool access and space to host guests in style. Even someone starting fresh could make that work with the right mindset (and a little love for hospitality).  

The entrepreneurial scene here isn’t about flashy apps or venture capital. It’s gritty. Ground-up. People investing their own savings, borrowing from cousins abroad, or just working 16-hour days to make something real. And there’s a community forming around it. You’ll see folks sharing tips in cafés, helping each other with permits, or showing up at each other’s openings. It’s that classic Albanian spirit of bashkëpunim —working together.  

A New Kind of Buyer  

I’ve noticed a shift in who’s buying here, too. It used to be mostly foreign investors looking for beachfront property or affordable vacation homes. Now, we’re seeing more Albanians from Tirana, or returnees from Greece, Germany, and Switzerland—coming back with new ideas.  

They want more than just a holiday escape. They’re thinking bigger. A duplex with rental potential. A villa where they can live upstairs and run a yoga studio or café below. Properties like this 139m2 duplex become more than homes—they become the foundation for someone’s dream.  

I had a buyer from Zurich ask me last month:  

“Do you think I could start a wellness retreat here?”  

My answer? Absolutely. Especially if you find a place with seclusion, sea views, and that magical southern calm. There’s a market growing here for exactly that kind of experience.   
A Quick Tangent About Albanian Coffee Culture… 

Okay, I need to pause for a second and talk about coffee. Because you can’t understand small business in Albania without understanding the ritual of kafe . Deals don’t happen over email. They happen at Bar Oslo, or by the port, or at that terrace in the back of Limani where the locals always sit. 

If you’re thinking of investing here—or starting something—learn this: you never rush coffee in Albania . You sip, you talk, you connect. And that connection? That’s your entry point to everything. 

The Ripple Effect on Real Estate 

All of this entrepreneurial energy is shifting the real estate landscape, too. Areas that were once sleepy or undervalued are waking up. I’m talking about little pockets around Qeparo, parts of Lukova, or the hills behind Ksamil with jaw-dropping views of the islands. 

These aren’t just places to live anymore. They’re places to build something meaningful . And from a numbers perspective? They’re smart investments. Prices are still reasonable compared to the rest of the Med, especially for Saranda apartments for sale or affordable properties that can easily be converted into income-generating spaces. 

And let’s be real: who wouldn’t want to work with a sea breeze in their hair and mountains in the distance? 

My Advice If You’re Thinking About It 

If you’re dreaming about starting something down here—or even just curious—come see it for yourself. Walk the promenade in Saranda. Sip espresso in Ksamil. Talk to the locals. Ask about their businesses. You’ll feel it right away—this momentum that’s quietly building. Not rushed. Not artificial. Just real. 

And hey, if you need help finding the right seaview apartment or something with enough space for a business idea to take root, I’m here. This is what I love to do. 

There’s never been a more exciting time to be part of the Albanian Riviera. Whether you’re launching your own project or just cheering on those who are, this energy—it’s contagious. 

⸻ 

Written from Saranda, where the waves are calm today and the smell of fresh bread just drifted up from the bakery downstairs.