On 22 October 2026, the Smelt Congress Hall in Ljubljana hosted the Change Makers 2026 – Empowering Leaders for Change conference, organised by Beyond Leadership Slovenia. This event focused on change management, leadership and competitiveness, and brought together leaders, entrepreneurs, experts and business association representatives.

Through inspiring stories and discussions, the participants emphasised the importance of entrepreneurial courage, innovation and effective leadership during periods of change. Particular focus was given to the question of how Slovenia can become one of the world's most competitive countries.

Dr Damjan Kavaš and Sonja Uršič (M.A.), both from the IER, also participated in the conference, presenting Slovenia’s results in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking. This study is conducted by the International Institute for Management Development (IMD) in Lausanne, in collaboration with partner organisations worldwide. In Slovenia, the study is carried out by the Institute for Economic Research and the School of Economics and Business at the University of Ljubljana.

Further information about the conference can be found on the Change Makers.