This week’s roundup features top opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs, including acceleration programs, major competitions, and career-boosting fellowships. Whether you’re a deep-tech founder, an early-stage Baltic startup, or a young European professional looking to expand your network, these programs offer unmatched growth potential. Dive in and find out how to apply!

EmpoWomen Programme

Type of Event: Acceleration Programme
Where: online
When: March 2025 — October 2025
Language: English
Application deadline: December 2

Calling all ambitious women entrepreneurs leading deep-tech startups! The EmpoWomen Programme is tailored to empower and support women-led startups across European emerging markets and associated regions. If you’re striving to scale, gain industry insights, and secure valuable resources, this program is for you.

• Tailored Acceleration by Startup Wise Guys & Business Angels Europe.
• Funding & Prizes up to €60,000 per startup.
• Expert Mentoring and industry connections.

Eligibility: Women-led deep-tech startups in eligible regions. (Check the full list of countries in the program details.)

Apply here!

Fifty Founders Battle — BALTIC STARTUPS EDITION

Type of Event: Early-stage startup competition
Where: Riga
When: February 5–7, 2025
Application deadline: December 2, 2024

What’s in it for you? Up to €300,000 investment from FIRSTPICK, Latvian Business Angels Network, and DEPO Ventures. €10,000 cash prize from eazyBI and the TechChill community. Full tuition to the Hero Training program at Draper University in Silicon Valley. Opportunity to pitch to over 2,000 attendees and 250+ investors at the premier tech event in the Baltics.

Can you apply? Open to all kinds of startups, whether in tech, food, or other sectors. Must be an early-stage startup, typically under 3 years old. Limited to startups with less than €700,000 in equity funding.

Don’t miss the chance to represent the Baltic startup ecosystem and elevate your venture!

Apply here!

Note: The Fifty Founders Battle is exclusive to Baltic startups, but the rest of TechChill events are open globally.

YTILI Fellowship Program

Type of Event: Fellowship program for European business professionals
Where: Virtual and U.S.-based
When: September-October 2025 (

• Professional development through virtual and in-person activities.
• Three-week, tailored placement in a U.S. organization.
• Comprehensive support covering travel, living arrangements, and health benefits.
• Access to an international network and resources through an alumni program.

The YTILI Fellowship Program empowers young European entrepreneurs to enhance their professional skills and build networks with U.S. counterparts. Fellows participate in virtual courses, receive mentorship, and engage in a three-week U.S. placement. The program culminates in a closing event in Washington, DC, featuring networking and workshops. Alumni enjoy continued support, including opportunities for community projects and workshops.

Apply here!

RTU ZIC innovator team invites everyone to join the open workshop series “Hack and Snack.”

• Where: Open prototyping workshop “SkyLab,” Ķīpsalas iela 6a, 2nd floor
• What to expect: Hands-on experience with various prototyping methods, a creative community atmosphere, and tasty snacks
• Special guests:

October: Food product manufacturer “WISEMEAL”
November: Vegan sweets producer “Le Monde Doux”

• Cost: Free entrance

To participate, contact: thelab@rtu.lv.

This week’s roundup features exciting opportunities for startups! Nominate innovative ventures for the Latvian Startup Awards 2024 by October 24. Early-stage startups with female founders can apply for the SPRING UP pre-acceleration program before October 13. Plus, don’t miss the Global Tech Connect’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp from November 26 to December 12 for insights and connections in the UK. Let’s dive in!

Latvian Startup Awards 2024

Type of Event: Competition
Where: Riga
When: December 6
Language: English
Application deadline: October 24

On December 6, we’re rolling out the red carpet for Latvia’s most innovative, hard-hustling startups. If you’ve got (or know) a startup breaking ground, now’s your chance to get them some well-deserved applause!

Here’s what you need to know: You can nominate any startup in one of 7 categories that celebrate the best in tech, innovation, and all-around genius:

• Breakthrough (for that “where did they come from?” vibe)
• Newcomer (new kids on the block 💡)
• Best Scaleup (because size does matter 💪)
• Social Impact (changing lives and the world 🧑‍🤝‍🧑🌍)
• Hardware Tech (building things you can touch 🛠️)
• Software (the code wizards 🧙‍♂️)
• Founder-Hero (the one who deserves a cape, not just a hoodie 🦸‍♀️)

Whether you’re part of the startup world or just an enthusiastic fan of disruption, submit a nomination before October 24. Don’t miss out on seeing Latvia’s finest take the stage!

Apply here!

SPRING UP

Type of Event: pre-acceleration program
Where: Riga, hybrid
When: November 5 — June 19
Language: English
Application deadline: October 13

Riga TechGirls is excited to announce the launch of applications for the SPRING UP pre-acceleration program’s batch of 2024! If you’re an early-stage startup with at least one female founder and a prototype, this is your chance to take your business to the next level.

This program is all about empowering diverse startups — we’re on a mission to break down barriers, foster a supportive community, and provide mentorship and resources to make your start-up investable.

What’s in Store for You?

✔️Tailored curriculum and hands-on workshops on your prototype development, leadership, fundraising, and more!
✔️Comprehensive mentorship with experienced guides.
✔️Networking opportunities with investors and like-minded entrepreneurs.
✔️Peer-to-peer learning and a supportive community dedicated to your success!

Apply here!

Global Tech Connect’s Cybersecurity Bootcamp 2024

Type of Event: Bootcamp
Where: London, hybrid
When: November 26–28, December 9–12
Language: English
Application deadline: 31 October

Global Tech Connect, the alliance of UK-based bilateral startup programmes, invites applications for its new initiative, Cybersecurity Bootcamp 2024. To be eligible a company will be based in Europe or Israel, offer a product-based cybersecurity solution for B2B/Enterprise, have existing commercial traction, a demonstrable plan to scale/fundraise in the UK, and a passionate management team committed to participating in the virtual and in-market programme. Cybersecurity Bootcamp 2024 content is provided free of charge.

Benefits
• insights into the UK cybersecurity landscape
• expert feedback on your product or business model
• connections with UK corporates, customers, and investors
• peer-to-peer learning and valuable mentorship opportunities

Apply here!

This week’s roundup brings you exciting opportunities — from networking and funding insights in Riga to a chance to showcase at Slush 2024. Plus, women-led deep-tech startups can apply for the EmpoWomen acceleration program with €60K up for grabs. Let’s dive in!

Startup Rocket Fuel

Type of Event: Education and networking
Where: Riga, RTU Institute of Architecture and Design, 1st floor, Kipsalas 6
When: October 3
Language: English

Are you a startup founder or interested in joining the startup scene? Then this event is for you!

🚀 Explore EU-backed funding programs through the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT)
🚀 Discover the infrastructure and resources offered by Riga Technical University for startup development
🚀 Learn about the latest scientific advancements in cutting-edge digital innovation (such as AI and robotics)
🚀 Hear inspiring success stories from startup founders who have already made it

The event will conclude with an exclusive opportunity to visit the RTU labs, where cutting-edge technologies are born. During the break, you’ll also have the chance to network with fellow founders, scientists, and EIT representatives from RTU over snacks and coffee.

Register here!

Attend Slush 2024

Type of Event: Conference
Where: Helsinki, Finland
When: November 20–21
Language: English
Application deadline: October 9

Riga Investment and Tourism Agency in partnership with StartupLatvia and the Embassy of Latvia to Finland, invites the top startups to join a delegation representing the Latvian startup ecosystem at Slush 2024.

This is a unique opportunity for your startup to gain exposure and expand your network. In collaboration with our partners, our carefully crafted program is designed to maximize your experience at Slush — the world’s leading event for radical innovation and transformation! 🏆

Slush is more than a tech event. It’s a global platform for game-changing startups, connecting with over 20,000 meetings, 3,300 investors, and 5,500 founders. This is your chance to participate in an event that can propel your startup to the next level.

Apply here!

EmpoWomen

Type of Event: Acceleration program
When: March — October 2025
Language: English
Application deadline: December 2

The EmpoWomen Programme is excited to announce its 2nd Open Call, empowering women-led deep-tech startups across European emerging markets and associated countries!
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a transformative journey with:

- Tailored acceleration & mentoring by Startup Wise Guys & Business Angels Europe
- Non-repayable funding, services, & prizes totalling up to €60K per startup
- Networking with experts and investors

Eligible startups can apply from October 1 — December 2, 2024. Don’t miss your chance to be 1 of the 14 women-led startups selected!

Apply here!

Dive into a diverse mix of events and opportunities for your startup!

Traction Builder

Type of Event: Marketing program
Where: Online
When: October 4
Length: 4 weeks
Language: English
Application deadline: September 22

Are you looking to expand into new markets? TRMNL4 together with Snap Inc. are launching Traction Builder — a program for founders & CMOs of Seed — Series A consumer tech startups! Leverage marketing opportunities on Snapchat and get business guidance for your startup. The program is global and free. To join, please, fill in the form and pass 2 selection steps to become one in ten participants.

▪️ Launch a new traffic source in 4 weeks
▪️ Save up to $30k of your marketing budget.
▪️ Grow with a personalized action plan and mentor support from Snap & TRMNL4.
▪️ Get 15 hours of to-do workshops with industry leaders & team of Snap.
▪️ Show traction in 4 weeks & pitch on Slush side-event
▪️ Connect with 40+ VC and angels from TRMNL4 network.

Apply here!

Baltic Sustainability Awards

Type of Event: Competition
Where: Riga, Latvia
When: November 26–27
Language: English
Application deadline: October 6

We are excited to be building and elevating the fourth edition of the BalticSustainabilityAwards 2024 and founding partners RimiBaltic and IgnitisGroup.

We invite business leaders, startups, progressive organizations, and forward-thinkers across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to share their innovative contributions to sustainable practices. Present your sustainability initiatives at the Baltic Sustainability Awards by participating in one of the categories:

▪️ Food Innovations
▪️ Energy Technologies
▪️ Urban Development
▪️ Circular Economy
▪️ Climate Innovations
▪️ Social Initiatives
▪️ Biodiversity & Conservation
▪️ Transport & Mobility
▪️ Industrial Symbiosis
▪️ Regenerative Agriculture
▪️ Sustainability Ambassador

Apply here!

How can to use co-financing from the Rehabilitation Fund for training?

Type of Event: webinar
Where: Online
When: September 12,14.00 — 15.00
Language: Latvian
Application deadline: September 22

The Latvian Information and Communication Technology Association is implementing the project “Improving digital technology and process management skills in Latvian companies” to promote the development of digital skills for employees of micro, small, medium, and large businesses. Within its framework, significant financial support for studies—up to 70%—is possible.

The webinar will cover the following topics:

▪️ Who can apply for co-financing and what are the amounts of support?
▪️ What is required to apply for co-financing?
▪️ Step by step: how to practically apply and receive co-financing for studies?

Register here!

Dig in to see if any of these support programs and events fit your startup!

Pitch Bootcamp

Type of Event: Pitchdeck training
Where: Latvia, Riga
When: September 23–25
Language: English
Application deadline: September 9

Startin.LV invites all early-stage startups to participate in an exclusive 3-day BootCamp at Startup House Riga designed to build a pitch deck that will leave investors weak in the knees. You’ll receive top-notch coaching from Two Dots Consulting, a global consulting firm with a proven track record of advising over 2000 startups.

Best of all, it’s free! Apply ASAP, as only the top 15 teams will be selected to participate.

📊 Learn how to master the essentials of a successful pitch deck, avoid common pitfalls, and understand what investors look for
🏋‍♂️ Gain hands-on experience through pitch training and small group sessions, where you’ll practice and refine your pitches with peer feedback
🏅 Show off polished pitches to a panel of judges, receive valuable feedback, and compete for the top spot to receive a prize

Agenda:

Online intro session
Day 1: Pitchdeck workshop
Day 2: Pitch training
Day 3: Pitch competition

Apply here: https://lnkd.in/dacZvdmR

Baltic Impact Accelerator

Type of Event: informative seminar
Where: Latvia, Riga
When: September 9
Language: Latvian, English

Join us for a 2nd informative seminar on September 9 from 1PM — to 4PM on the premises of the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kr. Valdemāra Street 35). The seminar will focus on the Baltic Impact Accelerator project, which aims to facilitate the sustainable growth of startups in the region. Green and Smart Technology Cluster Latvia organize this event in collaboration with the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry within Interreg Central Baltic Sea Region program project “Triple Bottom Line Baltic Impact Accelerator”

Register here!

Ideju Kauss

Type of Event: Competition
Where: Latvia, Riga
Language: Latvian, English
Application deadline: September 22

For the 16th time, EVERY resident of Latvia who has reached the age of 18 is allowed to realize their business idea!

Learn the basics of business, consult with experienced experts, make valuable contacts, and, in the end, compete for the first capital to realize an idea—up to 10,000 Euros!

The Idea Cup training program will be expanded starting in 2024. Through video lectures, every idea owner will have the opportunity to acquire basic knowledge in validating and developing a business idea and preparing a Lean Canvas.

In the second round of the competition, participants will learn topical topics for entrepreneurs in the format of online webinars. Meanwhile, the finalists receive advice from experienced experts in the field in a mentoring session, and in a separate workshop, they can polish their business idea presentation to perfection. Each author may submit only one business idea.

Apply here!

Very support program heavy week of opportunities — don’t let them slide by and check if your startup fits these programs!

ESCALTECH grant program

Type of Event: Support Program
Where: Latvia
Language: Latvian
Application deadline: September 27

Within the framework of the ESCALTECH project, it is possible to receive 70% co-financing for learning new markets to ensure rapid growth of companies! ​ As part of the project, you will be able to receive: ​ Training on export promotion, financial attraction and management, as well as legal support in learning new markets; ​ Individual mentor consultations;​ Take part in trade missions to attract new business partners and customers; ​ Take part in international events with co-financing of participation, travel and hotel expenses; A community with like-minded and growth-oriented companies.

Apply here! (in Latvian)

Fundraising School 2.0

Type of Event: Support Program
Where: Europe
When: November
Language: English
Application deadline: September 30

Fundraising is frustrating, but it really shouldn’t be. We feel you, founders — we’ve been there too, and we want to pour the collective wisdom of BADideas.fund community in the next generation of CEE-born unicorns so that it’s just that little less stressful for you.

Following last year’s success, we’re launching Fundraising School 2.0, an actionable & comprehensive 4-module bootcamp that is rooted in the experience of 200+ successful startup founders & operators and covers early-stage fundraising needs. The course culminates in curated, individual speed-dating sessions with top-tier angel investors & VCs, setting you up for success in the Q4 2024 fundraising game.

Apply here!

Women TechEU

Type of Event: Support Program
Where: Europe
Language: English
Application deadline: September 30

Women TechEU is a two-year EU-funded project funding and supporting women leading deep tech startup companies from Europe. Across the two years, the consortium will launch a total of four calls for applications. Applicant startups will undergo a rigorous evaluation and a total of 160 winner startups will receive €75k in non-dilutive grants as well as a personalised business development programme including mentoring, coaching and training.

Apply here!

SUSTAIN Open Call

Type of Event: Support
Where: Europe
Language: English
Application deadline: September 13

SUSTAIN Eurocluster is a EU consortium formed by 5 partners aimed to boost the market of building construction, by engaging SMEs in both innovation and the digital transformation undergoing in the sector. Companies can apply for GO-TO MARKET SUPPORT with the amount of funding up to 30,000 euros. If you are looking for ways to adapt to technologies and related innovation systems in the field of building construction.

Apply here!

🛎 Ready to learn more about Startin.LV? Visit our website and join the community of over 10 000+ startup enthusiasts by following us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

Summer is coming to a close, don’t forget to have some fun amidst all these startup events and opportunities below.

Type of Event: Hackathon
Where: Riga, Latvia
When: August 23
Language: English

Developers, designers, and anyone interested in Telegram — this opportunity is for you! Come together and brainstorm new mini-applications ideas for Telegram that will change the way micro-teams can build their products.

Register here!

Y Combinator

Type of Event: Accelerator
Where: USA, San Francisko
When: September — December
Language: Latvian
Application deadline: August 27

The overall goal of YC is to help startups really take off. They arrive at YC at all different stages. Some haven’t even started working yet, and others have been launched for a year or more. But whatever stage a startup is at when they arrive, our goal is to help them to be in dramatically better shape 3 months later.

Apply here!

Export and Innovation Award

Type of Event: Competition
Where: Riga, Latvia
When: September 19
Language: Latvian
Application deadline: September 2

The “Export and Innovation Award” competition will be held for the 19th year. Latvian Exporters Association “The Red Jackets” organizes the “Export Newcomer” category and invites companies with an export volume in 2023 has reached at least 50,000 euros and within five years it is planned to increase it to one million euros. Companies must have a website in at least two languages ​​and at least three employees. The winner in the “Export Newcomer” category will receive a cash prize of 10,000 euros.

Apply through this form!

Panel Discussions: “Start-up” of the Latvia’s Semiconductor Supply Chain Industry

Type of Event: Panel Discussion
Where: Riga, Latvia + Online
When: September 6
Language: English

This event aims to bring together key players from established enterprises, startups, and investors, fostering a collaborative environment to drive the growth of Latvia’s capabilities to manufacture, produce or even create components required by the semiconductor industry.

Register for in-person here, and online stream here!

Grant competition “(ie)dvesma”

Type of Event: Grant
Where: Riga, Latvia
Language: Latvian
Application deadline: September 27

From September 2 to 27, authors of business ideas, as well as already operating companies, will be able to apply for the “(ie)dvesma” grant competition. For the eighth year in a row, the grant competition is being implemented by SEB banka together with the city of Jūrmala, the counties of Jelgava, Ķekava, Mārupe, Olaine, Ropaži and Sigulda with the aim of promoting the development of the business environment. The total amount of grants this year will be up to 96 thousand euros, but the maximum amount for one grant is 12 thousand euros. Grant funds are intended for the development of an existing business or for the creation of a new company. The turnover of operating companies in the previous year must not exceed two million euros, but the number of employees must be less than ten.

Read more about application process once it opens on September 2nd!

RigaCOMM

Type of Event: Conference
Where: Riga, Latvia
When: October 3–4
Language: English

RIGA COMM is an annual IT and business event for entrepreneurs of service and manufacturing fields, multi-level executives of state institutions and organisations and professionals representing multiple fields of operation, where they can learn about the latest offers of digital service providers and product manufacturers from the Baltics and other countries, consult with knowledgeable specialists and together select the solutions that are most suitable for one’s business or organisation, all in the same place.

The goal of the exhibition is to encourage modernisation of companies, organisations, state and municipal institutions for more effective operation. The content of the exhibition is suitable for entrepreneurs and executives of all fields.

Register here!

🛎 Ready to learn more about Startin.LV? Visit our website and join the community of over 10 000+ startup enthusiasts by following us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

Ideas are the seeds of innovation, but it’s the right opportunities that nurture them into thriving startups. Welcome to this week’s edition, where we uncover the hidden gems of the startup world.

The Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs

Type of Event: Exchange program
Where: Europe
Length: 1-6 months
Language: English
Webinar date: August 1, 16:00

The Erasmus program for young entrepreneurs, funded by the European Union, offers budding entrepreneurs the chance to participate in business exchanges across 39 member states. With over 11,000 exchanges already completed, participants can gain valuable skills, contacts, and inspiration. “CIVITTA Latvija” will host an informative webinar featuring a program graduate’s experience. Open to entrepreneurs with less than 3 years of experience or a business idea, applicants must submit a business plan and fill out an application form. Participants receive a stipend and mentorship, with more details on the official Erasmus website. Registration for the webinar is mandatory.

Apply here, and register for the webinar here!

Industry Space Days 2024

Type of Event: Trade mission
Where: Netherlands, Noordwijk
When: September 18–19
Language: English
Application deadline: August 5

The Latvian Investment and Development Agency invites Latvian space industry companies to a trade mission. The event features a contact exchange, exhibition, and conference, with around 600 companies participating. The registration fee for the contact exchange is EUR 50.00 plus VAT. If they meet the criteria, companies can apply for support to recover up to 60% of eligible costs. Participants must cover their own travel and accommodation expenses.

Apply here!

Summer Un-rest 2024

Type of Event: Networking
Where: Liepaja, Latvia
When: July 25–26
Language: English/Latvian

Summer Un-Rest is a beachside networking opportunity for IT professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs. Participants can explore IT career development, startup creation, funding opportunities, and insights into artificial intelligence and business management.

Day 1, July 25: IT Waffle Meetup — discover IT career opportunities and hear inspiring professional stories.

Day 2, July 26: Summer Un-Rest—Enhance your IT and business potential through valuable connections and industry-leader experiences.

Activities include:

• Speeches and discussions on AI, innovation, and investment strategies.
• Networking on the beach.
• Windsurfing lessons.
• Technology Business Talks on the Beach Tram.
• Exclusive events for investors, executives, and startups.
• Startup pitch session for potential investors.

Register here!

Every groundbreaking business began with a simple idea. But what transforms an idea into an impactful venture? The right opportunity. Dive into our latest blog, where we spotlight emerging startup opportunities that promise not just growth but a chance to make a significant difference.

Startup Houses Support Program

Type of Event: Support program
Where: Riga, Latvia
Length: 36 months
Language: Latvian
Application deadline: August 11

This program is designed to promote the operations of startup hubs in Riga, with the capital planning to invest EUR 450,000 over the next three years. The developer of the startup centre will be selected based on several criteria, including previous experience with startups, references, choice of premises, proposed strategy and implementation plan, and the number of startups attracted to date. A contract with the chosen developer will be signed for 36 months (3 years or three periods), providing EUR 150,000 in co-financing for implementing the proposed plan in each period, of which EUR 75,000 is available in the 2024 budget. It is intended that the developer of the startup centre will support at least ten startups in the first year and at least 15 startups each in the second and third years.

Apply here!

Participate in the visit of the President and Minister of Economy to the USA

Type of Event: Networking
Where: USA
Length: September 17–26
Language: English
Application deadline: July 28

The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) invites innovative and technologically advanced companies from sectors such as ICT, energy, logistics, defence, and various processing and production industries to apply for a working visit to the USA with President Edgars Rinkēvičs and Minister of Economy Viktors Valainis. The visit includes stops in San Francisco, Denver, Houston, and San Diego, focusing on the technology, energy, and defence industries. Organized in collaboration with the President’s Office, the Ministry of Economy, the Embassy of Latvia in the USA, and LIAA’s US representative office, the program aims to establish contacts with investors, explore US market opportunities, and create joint Latvia-USA projects. Participants will engage with US companies, venture capital funds, and state institutions. LIAA will coordinate with participants to finalize the detailed program and arrange meetings with potential investors and partners.

Apply here!

Trade mission at Nordic Fintech Week

Type of Event: Networking
Where: Denmark, Copenhagen
Length: September 25., 26
Language: English
Application deadline: July 22

The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) invites Latvian FinTech startups and ecosystem participants to join a trade mission to Denmark during the “Nordic Fintech Week” (NFW) exhibition. Participants will receive conference tickets, space at the LIAA booth for networking and marketing, access to the Brella app for networking, and opportunities to meet potential investors and partners. The mission aims to feature seven companies or organizations from Latvia. The NFW will gather over 200 startups, 50 bank representatives, and 100 speakers, offering a platform to present innovative solutions, meet industry leaders, and gain insights into the latest FinTech trends. For more details, visit Nordic Fintech Week.

Apply here!

Check out these fantastic opportunities for you and your startup!

European Prize for Women Innovators

When: until May 2025
Where: Remote
Type of Event: Competition
Language: English
Application deadline: September 25

The European Prize for Women Innovators celebrates the women entrepreneurs behind Europe’s most game-changing innovations. The prize awards women from across the EU and countries associated to Horizon Europe, whose disruptive innovations are driving positive change for people and planet.

Prize categories:

• In the EIC Women Innovators category, three prizes of EUR 100 000, EUR 70 000 and EUR 50 000 are awarded to the three highest-ranked applications;
• In the EIC Rising Innovators, three prizes of EUR 50 000, EUR 30 000 and EUR 20 000 are awarded to the three highest-ranked applications from promising ‘Rising Innovators’ under the age of 35.
• The EIT Women Leadership Award, awarded to exceptional women leaders from the EIT Community. The winner is awarded EUR 50 000, and two runners-up are awarded EUR 30 000 and EUR 20 000 respectively.

Apply here!

MEDICA 2024

When: November 11 and 12
Where: Düsseldorf, Germany
Type of Event: Competition
Language: English
Application deadline: September 14

Join the global stage at MEDICA 2024 and showcase your groundbreaking solutions in two premier competitions:

16th Healthcare Innovation World Cup®

This competition has been a launchpad for global healthcare innovation. Submit your smart health devices, medical wearables, XR solutions, and digital biomarkers for a chance to:

· Pitch at the MEDICA Innovation Forum on November 11th, 3–5 PM.
· Free marketing and media services.
· Network with top business partners, tech companies, and investors.
· Participate in special prizes: VIVE XR Healthcare Challenge & Smart Clothing Challenge

13th MEDICA Start-up COMPETITION

Take your healthcare startup to new heights. Innovators in AI, robotics, health apps, and lab diagnostics, submit your solutions for:

· A chance to be among the Top 12 Medical Start-ups at MEDICA.
· International exposure and valuable connections.
· Cash prizes totalling up to 3,500 euros.
Pitch at the MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM on November 12th, 3–5 PM.

Apply here!

Entrepreneurship Promotion Award

When: November 2024
Where: Riga, Latvia
Type of Event: Award ceremony/competition
Language: Latvian and English
Application deadline: July 19

The Ministry of Economy invites various organizations, including public-private partnerships and educational programs, to participate in the European Commission’s “European Entrepreneurship Promotion Award” competition. This annual competition aims to identify and celebrate the most successful entrepreneurship promoters across Europe, highlighting the best policies and practices, and encouraging potential entrepreneurs. Projects can be submitted until July 19, with the competition featuring six categories: encouraging entrepreneurship, investing in business skills, improving the business environment and supporting the digital transition, supporting business internationalization, promoting sustainable transitions, and fostering responsible and inclusive business. The selection process includes a national round organized by the Ministry of Economy in Latvia, followed by a European-wide selection by a high-level jury, with winners announced in November 2024. Since its inception in 2006, the competition has seen over 4,000 projects and led to the creation of more than 10,000 new companies.

Apply here!