Generation Z and the New Era of Leadership

Institut Mihajlo Pupin - Science and Technology Development Research Center, within the framework of the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) project, in cooperation with the Association of Business Women in Serbia and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, organized the conference “Business Tomorrow - Generation Z: A Secure Future of Business.” The conference was held on February 23, 2026, at the European House in Belgrade.

The event brought together representatives of public institutions, the financial sector, companies, family-owned businesses, young leaders, and students, with the aim of fostering intergenerational dialogue on business succession, financial stability, and the development of sustainable business models.

Through two thematic panels - “Family Business Succession from the Perspective of Generation Z” and “Financing, Protection and Development of the Next Generation of Leaders” - it was emphasized that business succession today represents a process of transformation: digitalization, operational modernization, and the redefinition of organizational culture. Special focus was placed on available financing instruments, business protection mechanisms, and the need to adapt institutional support to emerging generations of leaders.

The key message of the conference was that generational transition in business does not represent disruption, but rather a natural evolution that introduces new leadership models and drives company transformation. The stability of modern business is grounded in long-term sustainability, flexibility, and readiness to integrate technology and artificial intelligence into everyday operations.

A secure and resilient business future is built through collaboration - by combining the experience of senior generations with the knowledge, values, and digital mindset brought by Generation Z.