This policy brief, developed as part of research conducted during the Civil Society Forum in Tirana 2023—supported by the Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans — provides an in-depth analysis of the European Commission’s New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, focusing on its potential to accelerate economic growth and EU integration. The paper examines the plan’s four pillars: economic integration with the EU single market, regional cooperation through the Common Regional Market (CRM), fundamental reforms, and increased financial support. As the Growth Plan introduces ambitious measures aimed at fostering convergence and development, the brief outlines recommendations for simplifying the framework, prioritizing impactful reforms, and ensuring the plan’s alignment with regional and national needs to effectively unlock the economic potential of the Western Balkans.