Dr. Jure Knez, is a mechanical engineer, entrepreneur, and innovator. He completed both his primary and secondary education in Trbovlje before continuing his studies at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Ljubljana, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1996, master’s degree in 1999, and PhD in 2002.

In 2000, together with three partners, he co-founded Dewesoft, a company headquartered in Trbovlje that develops high-end measurement instruments. These instruments are used by leading laboratories in the aerospace and automotive industries around the world. Under his leadership, Dewesoft has grown into a globally recognized company with sales offices in 15 countries, while remaining entirely employee-owned.

In addition to his technological and entrepreneurial achievements, Dr. Knez is also committed to supporting young entrepreneurs. To that end, he founded Katapult, an initiative that provides startups with access to Dewesoft’s infrastructure and mentoring support during their early stages. Katapult plays a vital role in revitalizing the entrepreneurial spirit in Slovenia’s Zasavje region and beyond.

Dr. Knez is widely recognized not only for his business accomplishments but also for his dedication to fostering innovation, sustainability, and community development through entrepreneurship.