Meet Ardiana Ballazhi, CEO of Beriflapp AG

Tell us more about Beriflapp.
Beriflapp is a Swiss software development company with a dedicated nearshore hub in Kosovo. We deliver tailor-made digital solutions and dedicated development teams for startups, SMEs, and corporates—from MVPs to complex platforms. Our expertise spans web and mobile apps, AI-powered solutions, and regulated-industry projects, including ISO 13485-certified MedTech. From the very beginning of software architecture, we integrate our cybersecurity team to ensure robust, secure, and compliant solutions. By combining Swiss quality standards with agile global talent, we build scalable, reliable, and future-proof products—faster and more cost-efficiently.

Please give some more details of your startup story: what was the “aha” moment that led to the idea for your startup?
The “aha” moment came during my studies at the University of Zurich while learning at the ETH library, where the idea of building a software company grounded in Swiss quality, work ethic, and precision first took shape. By tapping into Kosovo’s overlooked tech ecosystem—skilled, agile, and entrepreneurial—we created a model that helps startups scale faster and smarter. It combines Swiss reliability with nearshoring advantages, giving young companies the speed and cost efficiency they need without compromising trust or excellence.

So, what’s next for you—what’s a bold goal you’re chasing right now?
Our bold goal for the next 12 months is to establish Beriflapp as the go-to partner for startups and SMEs in Switzerland that need fast, high-quality, and scalable software solutions. We’re expanding into regulated industries like MedTech and growing our AI-driven development services. At the same time, we’re doubling our development capacity in both Switzerland and Kosovo—so we can take on bigger, more complex projects without ever compromising speed or quality. Our vision is to be the trusted technology partner that helps innovative ideas cross the finish line faster—and stronger.

Which decision (big or small) had the most unexpected positive impact on your startup?
Establishing our own development hub in Kosovo—rather than outsourcing—was a game-changer. It gave us full control over processes, culture, and quality, while tapping into one of Europe’s most talented and motivated tech communities. With Swiss-led management, engineering, and strict adherence to Swiss quality standards, we created a model that combines agility and cost efficiency without compromise. This structure has accelerated delivery times, boosted trust, and ensured clients know exactly who is behind their product.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?
If I could do it again, I would focus earlier on building a strong brand presence and network in Switzerland. Early on, we concentrated almost entirely on delivering great projects to existing clients, but underestimated the power of visibility and relationships in scaling. My biggest learning is that trust is built not only through quality work but also through consistent communication. Another lesson: invest in people as much as in technology. A motivated, aligned team can overcome almost any challenge, and culture is just as much a growth driver as technical expertise.

Building a startup requires resilience, how do you stay focused during tough times?
Resilience comes from staying connected to our “why”—the reason we started Beriflapp: enabling great ideas to become reality through technology. During tough times, I break challenges into smaller, actionable steps so the team can see progress and keep momentum. Open communication, celebrating small wins, and reminding ourselves of the value we create are key. Just as important: leaning on each other as a team. Personally, yoga and family time help me reset and keep perspective. Challenges are inevitable, but they’re also where growth happens.

What’s your outlook on the future of the Swiss startup scene, and how can it compete internationally?
Switzerland can lead globally by leaning into what it already does best—precision, trust, and quality—while pairing that with agility from international collaboration. The Swiss startup scene will thrive if it shortens time-to-market without compromising standards. Our own model, combining Swiss management with engineering and innovation from both Switzerland and Kosovo, proves this is possible. By fostering more cross-border synergies and ensuring easier access to scaling capital, Swiss startups can set global benchmarks for innovation.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?
If you’re looking for a tech partner that combines Swiss management with engineering and innovation from both Switzerland and Kosovo, I’d love to connect. Whether it’s an MVP, a complex platform, or an AI solution, we focus on delivering with Swiss quality. Beyond business, I’m passionate about knowledge sharing and collaboration—because the more we connect across borders, the stronger Switzerland’s position will be in the global innovation ecosystem.

Check out Ardiana’s LinkedIn here!

About the Swiss Startup Association

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