Montenegro’s telecommunications sector is highly competitive, with mobile penetration exceeding 200% of the population. Yet, M:tel has successfully grown from being the third operator to the dominant market leader. What has driven this success?
Innovation at the Core of M:tel’s Growth
A relentless focus on infrastructure, technology, and customer experience has positioned M:tel at the top of the industry in Montenegro. A key milestone was the strategic investment in fibre-optic infrastructure and obtaining 5G spectrum, making M:tel the leader not only in mobile services but also in internet and multimedia.
The company has also embraced digital transformation, with its self-care application, Moj Mtel, achieving high adoption rates. This reflects a strong customer response to intuitive digital services.
The next step? 5G.
In 2023, M:tel secured the necessary spectrum and launched 5G test stations, paving the way for the next generation of connectivity. The initial rollout focuses on smart home and city solutions, as well as advancements in healthcare and business automation. M:tel is set to deliver seamless, high-speed 5G connectivity to its customers.
"At M:tel, we believe that delivering an exceptional customer experience and continuous adoption of new technologies is at the heart of our business. Our commitment to innovation, especially with the rollout of our 5G network, allows us to not only enhance the speed and reliability of our services but it also represents the future of connectivity. We are focused to continuously evolve and push the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring that our customers are always ahead of the curve in a fast-moving digital world"; said Zoran Milovanović, Director of M:tel.
Supporting Montenegro’s Innovation Ecosystem
M:tel is the only telecom operator in Montenegro to invest in an ICT hub—M:tel Digital Factory. This initiative provides young entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups with free co-working space, mentorship, and funding opportunities. So far:
- Over 500 entrepreneurs have received training.
- More than 1,000 freelancers have developed projects within the hub.
- Several startup academies have been launched, with direct investments in promising ideas.
Looking ahead, M:tel is preparing to launch a startup accelerator focused on projects aligned with its strategic vision. Additionally, its partnership with Telekom Srbija’s Venture Fund gives startups access to €25 million in investment capital.
A commitment to youth and innovation also extends to education. M:tel has successfully run multiple mobile app development competitions, encouraging high school students to explore programming and develop innovative applications. The initiative provides a platform for young talent to showcase their creativity while competing with peers from across the region.
A Business with Purpose: Social Responsibility at M:tel
M:tel’s impact goes beyond technology. Corporate social responsibility is embedded in its business philosophy, with initiatives spanning healthcare, education, sports, and cultural preservation.
- Healthcare: M:tel supports the Prava Priča campaign, promoting breast cancer awareness and offering free ultrasound screenings for employees. It also donates modern medical equipment to healthcare institutions.
- Education & Entrepreneurship: Beyond the work of the Digital Factory, M:tel provides free training, mentorship, and funding opportunities to young professionals.
- Sports & Community Well-being: The company sponsors various sports organisations, from basketball and football to karate and water polo, encouraging healthy lifestyles.
- Cultural Initiatives: Through projects like Feel Montenegro, M:tel helps showcase the country’s natural and cultural heritage to global audiences.
As M:tel continues to lead in technology and innovation, its commitment to social impact remains equally strong. The company’s vision is clear: to drive digital progress while contributing to a more connected and sustainable Montenegro.
"Having M:tel as a Gold Partner truly marks an important moment for our summit. Their position as a leader in the telecommunications sector, coupled with their commitment to innovation, resonates deeply with the values we strive to embody. This partnership is about a shared vision for creating a digitally connected future. What excites me most is the opportunity this partnership provides for driving deeper discussions at the Summit and exploring ideas that will transform different industries for the better", said Biljana Braithwaite, CEO of Sustineri Partners, organiser of the Summit.
