From a small Slovenia to a big success: a company that made a development leap

Milan Kuster, co-founder of the Slovenian tech firm i-Vent, has spoken publicly about his views on innovation, business challenges, and the current tensions surrounding his company following a recent split with a former business partner. In an interview published by Primorske novice, Kuster emphasized the need to protect rather than attack individuals who create high-value-added products, stating that such innovators should be safeguarded instead of being demonized. Kuster's comments come amid ongoing legal disputes involving both i-Vent and its sister company Lunos. The situation escalated after the split with his former business partner, which led to legal proceedings and public accusations from both sides. Kuster confirmed that he has filed for insolvency proceedings against Lunos, though he declined to provide further details about the legal actions currently underway. He stressed that his primary focus remains on the long-term growth of the company, particularly in developing new technologies and expanding into international markets. The interview took place during a period of intense activity around i-Vent and Lunos. Legal processes are ongoing, while allegations from both parties have surfaced in the public domain. Kuster acknowledged these developments but chose not to comment on specific aspects of the legal cases. Instead, he reiterated his belief that the resolution of outstanding issues would ultimately fall to the appropriate authorities, while he and his team would concentrate their efforts on future-oriented projects. Kuster also addressed broader concerns regarding the Slovenian business environment, taxation policies, and his perspective on politics. While he did not elaborate on political matters directly, he implied that the current climate presents challenges for entrepreneurs aiming to innovate and grow sustainably. His remarks suggest that the pressures of short-term financial performance often overshadow the importance of long-term strategic planning and technological advancement. In addition to discussing the legal and operational challenges facing i-Vent, Kuster highlighted the company’s recent initiatives, including the development of its own ventilation systems and expansion into foreign markets. These steps reflect a strategic shift toward self-reliance and diversification, aimed at strengthening the company’s position in the competitive global market. Kuster expressed confidence in the ability of the company to navigate through the current difficulties and continue delivering innovative solutions to customers. The interview also touched upon the broader implications of the current situation for Slovenia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Kuster argued that fostering an environment conducive to innovation requires more than just financial incentives, it demands protection for those driving economic progress. He called for a balanced approach that recognizes the contributions of high-value creators while ensuring they are not unfairly targeted or undermined by external pressures. As the legal battles continue, the outcome will likely influence not only the future of i-Vent and Lunos but also the broader perception of entrepreneurship in Slovenia. Kuster’s emphasis on long-term vision over immediate gains underscores a growing trend among Slovenian businesses to prioritize sustainable growth and technological leadership. Whether this strategy proves successful remains to be seen, but the company’s trajectory indicates a clear commitment to innovation and resilience.