Recognizing the movers and shakers of Latvian startup scene
In the fast-paced world of Latvian startups, a fresh wave of tech talent is sweeping through. Picture a snowball barreling downhill: Latvia’s tech scene is picking up speed, gaining wisdom from the bumps along the way and flexing its growing muscle.
Every year, Latvian startups hit new milestones, turning heads on the global stage. They inspire the next crop of entrepreneurs and set the bar higher for anyone brave enough to follow.
Enter the Latvian Startup Awards. For the second year in a row, we’re shining a spotlight on the bold, the groundbreaking, and the flat-out relentless. It’s our way of tipping the hat to their grit and grind.
So, let’s raise a glass to their wins and let those sparks of inspiration light up our path to greatness!
Latvian Startup Awards Categories
BREAKTHROUGH
A startup that has accomplished remarkable goals in the past year, e.g. unicorn, exit, IPO, big investment deal
HARDWARE
A startup that has demonstrated exceptional innovation and excellence in developing physical products, and that solving a real-life problem, and has achieved notable milestones in the past 12 months.
NEWCOMER
A promising newcomer (the company was incorporated within last 2 years) to the Latvian startup scene, demonstrating high potential for growth and market demand.
DIGITAL
A startup whose core product is software-based, solving a real-life problem problem, and has achieved notable milestones in the past 12 months.
SCALEUP
A startup whose patience and commitment to the world of tangible matter has paid off. They went through nine circles of physical prototyping and delivered a viable product which makes their clients fall head over heels.
FOUNDER-HERO
Recognizes the exceptional leadership and vision of an individual who has made a significant impact in the startup ecosystem.
IMPACT
This category acknowledges a startup, whether for-profit or non-profit, that is mission-driven and has made a significant impact on the Latvian startup community and beyond.
COMMUNITY CHOICE
A startup which – whatever the reason – inspires you. Perhaps, it’s their work ethics and team culture that resonates with you? Or maybe it’s the can-do mentality and bravery to go where no one else is headed to? This category is a carte blanche – so use this opportunity to voice your choice!
BREAKTHROUGH
A startup that has accomplished remarkable goals in the past year, e.g. unicorn, exit, IPO, big investment deal
HARDWARE
A startup that has demonstrated exceptional innovation and excellence in developing physical products, and that solving a real-life problem, and has achieved notable milestones in the past 12 months.
NEWCOMER
A promising newcomer (the company was incorporated within last 2 years) to the Latvian startup scene, demonstrating high potential for growth and market demand
DIGITAL
A startup whose core product is software-based, solving a real-life problem problem, and has achieved notable milestones in the past 12 months.
SCALEUP
A startup that has demonstrated a robust product-market fit, achieved a high ARR and/or significantly expanded staff.
FOUNDER-HERO
Recognizes the exceptional leadership and vision of an individual who has made a significant impact in the startup ecosystem.
IMPACT
This category acknowledges a startup, whether for-profit or non-profit, that is mission-driven and has made a significant impact on the Latvian startup community and beyond.
COMMUNITY CHOICE
A startup which – whatever the reason – inspires you. Perhaps, it’s their work ethics and team culture that resonates with you? Or maybe it’s the can-do mentality and bravery to go where no one else is headed to? This category is a carte blanche – so use this opportunity to voice your choice!
Evaluation Process & Timeline
Applications & Nominations
Until November 4, toss your name in the hat or give a shout-out to a standout startup or founder. It’s time to shine a spotlight on the best of the best!
The Shortlist Shuffle
From the pool of nominees, we’ll handpick a shortlist. Categories 1-7 will be judged by our esteemed jury, while Category 8 – Community Choice – will be left in the capable hands of the public. Curious about the process? Check out the full methodology.
The Jury’s Verdict
Our jury of six startup heavyweights and policymakers will dive headfirst into evaluating the nominees. Once the points are tallied, the top startups will rise to the occasion.
And The Winner Is…
Mark your calendar for December 6, 2024, when the winners will be revealed at the Latvian Startup Awards ceremony. Get ready to unite and cheer on your favourite startup – or maybe even your own!
Community Choice
The Community Choice category is all about giving the power of choice to the people. No jury, just you!
Until November 4 nominate the Latvia-based startup that fires up your imagination for whatever reason! If they inspire you, they deserve a shot.
Public voting is open. Cast your vote by November 29!
The big reveal happens on December 6 at the Latvian Startup Awards. Be there to celebrate the champions!
Meet The Jury
Egita Polanska
Partner at Outlast Fund, ex-CEO of Startup House
Mikus Opelts
CEO and Co-Founder at Giraffe360
Andris K. Bērziņš
Investment Partner at Change Ventures
Normunds Bergs
CEO at SAF tehnika and President of Latvian Industry Development Confederation (LIAK)
Anda Asere
Journalist at Labs of Latvia & Co-Founder of Finday.lv