EU Commissioner to Discuss Baltic Startup Policy & Innovation at TechChill Riga 2024
EU Commissioner Visits Riga to Discuss Baltic Startup Ecosystem
– Riga, Latvia – Ekaterina Zaharieva, the European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation, is in Riga today to attend the Baltic Startup Policy Forum, hosted by the Latvian Startup Association Startin.LV and held in conjunction with TechChill. This marks Commissioner Zaharieva’s first official visit to Latvia, signaling a heightened focus on the Baltic region’s burgeoning startup scene.
The forum aims to bridge EU-level priorities in startup development, research, and innovation with the perspectives of Baltic policymakers, founders, and investors. Discussions will center on cultivating the next generation of “unicorn” companies and accelerating the commercialization of deeptech innovations.
“We’re seeing that startup policy is becoming an increasing priority in Europe,” said Roberts Alhimionoks, Director of Latvian startup association Startin.LV. “That’s why it’s critical for the Baltic states to participate in the discussion from the beginning. The Forum in Riga will create an opportunity for policymakers and ecosystem representatives to collaboratively define priorities, learn from each other, and strengthen our region’s voice in Europe.”
The event is being opened by Viktors Valainis, the Minister for Economics of Latvia, with participation from high-level officials from the Estonian and Lithuanian Ministries for Economics. Representatives from leading regional startup organizations, including Unicorns LT and the Estonian Founders Society, will also contribute to the dialogue.
The Baltic states have consistently ranked highly in global startup policy assessments, demonstrating a commitment to fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. This success is reflected in the region’s strong performance in attracting European funding, exceeding expectations relative to its size.
Commissioner Zaharieva highlighted the potential of the Baltic States, stating, “The Baltic States have great potential to be one of Europe’s most dynamic hubs for innovation and entrepreneurship. I am delighted to visit Riga and to engage directly with the founders, investors, and policymakers who are shaping the future of Europe’s startup ecosystem. Events like TechChill and the Baltic Startup Policy Forum are vital platforms for ensuring that our continent remains at the forefront of technological progress and global competitiveness.”
Beyond the forum, Commissioner Zaharieva is scheduled to meet with Baiba Braže, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, to discuss the strategic importance of the Baltics within the broader context of European autonomy. This conversation will likely address the region’s role in navigating the global competition for leadership in areas like microchip technology and quantum computing, given its strong science background and geopolitical location.
About TechChill
TechChill is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Baltic startup community. Originating as a grassroots movement, TechChill now hosts the largest tech event in Latvia, bringing together startups, corporations, investors, and tech enthusiasts annually. The organization actively works to empower the Baltic startup ecosystem throughout the year.
TechChill 2026, taking place from to in Riga, will feature 100 international speakers and is expected to attract 2300 attendees, including innovators, founders, tech experts, investors, and media representatives. More information can be found at http://techchill.co.