Recognizing the movers and shakers of Latvian startup scene
In the ever-evolving landscape of the Latvian startup ecosystem, where innovation and ambition collide, a new wave of technological prowess is emerging. Like a snowball gaining momentum, the tech scene in Latvia is maturing, absorbing practical experiences, learning from mistakes, and growing stronger.
Each year, Latvian startups reach new heights of success and make a global impact. They inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, leaving a lasting impression and raising the standards for those who follow.
The purpose of the Latvian Startup Awards is to honour remarkable accomplishments, breakthroughs, and triumphs of startups. It is a testament to their unwavering dedication and spirit.
Together, let’s revel in their achievements and fuel our aspirations for greatness.
Latvian Startup Awards Categories
BREAKTHROUGH
Be it an exit, an investment, or whatever else that takes our breath away, this startup has recently experienced something truly BIG. Extraordinary even. And we want to celebrate this quantum leap with them.
NEWCOMER
New ideas are born every year, quiet and out of sight at first. And then one sunny day, they appeared out of thin air, took our ecosystem by storm and left us in awe with their startup ambition, vision and early-stage traction.
SCALEUP
A startup with a solid product and excellent traction and growth metrics. Someone we admire for being a great team with razor-sharp focus and undeniable ability to achieve set targets. We believe in them. A true unicorn material.
IMPACT
Whether saving humans or saving the planet (even if from humans), this startup is going big in making this world better, greener and healthier. We praise them for their purpose-driven approach and ability to make a difference.
HARDWARE
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.
DIGITAL
A startup with an excellent digital product which is out there conquering hearts and wallets. Not only does it solve an important problem which is still poorly addressed in the market, but it also makes the competitors sweat. Think of market disruptors.
FOUNDER-HERO
This person rocks. Not only do they lift their own startup to great heights, but they also empower our whole startup community by being available, sharing their wisdom and experiences, and nurturing the give-back mentality. They command respect.
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
Be it an exit, an investment, or whatever else that takes our breath away, this startup has recently experienced something truly BIG. Extraordinary even. And we want to celebrate this quantum leap with them.
HARDWARE
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.
NEWCOMER
New ideas are born every year, quiet and out of sight at first. And then one sunny day, they appeared out of thin air, took our ecosystem by storm and left us in awe with their startup ambition, vision and early-stage traction.
DIGITAL
A startup with an excellent digital product which is out there conquering hearts and wallets. Not only does it solve an important problem which is still poorly addressed in the market, but it also makes the competitors sweat. Think of market disruptors.
SCALEUP
A startup with a solid product and excellent traction and growth metrics. Someone we admire for being a great team with razor-sharp focus and undeniable ability to achieve set targets. We believe in them. A true unicorn material.
FOUNDER-HERO
This person rocks. Not only do they lift their own startup to great heights, but they also empower our whole startup community by being available, sharing their wisdom and experiences, and nurturing the give-back mentality. They command respect.
IMPACT
Whether saving humans or saving the planet (even if from humans), this startup is going big in making this world better, greener and healthier. We praise them for their purpose-driven approach and ability to make a difference.
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 August 4, you can either throw your own hat in the ring or nominate a deserving startup/ founder in a specific category. It’s time to shine a spotlight on the best of the best!
The Shortlist Shuffle
From the pool of applicants and nominees, we’ll shortlist the candidates. 7 categories will be assessed by the Jury, and 1 category – Community Choice – will be open for public voting. Expect to see full methodology here soon.
The Jury’s Verdict
Our expert Jury, a group of startup ecosystem shapers and policymakers, will roll up their sleeves and dive deep into evaluating the shortlisted candidates. The winners for 7 categories (all except Community Choice) will get selected.
And The Winner Is…
Join us on September 8, 2023, at the festive Latvian Startup Award ceremony, where the winners will be announced. Prepare to stand united and cheer for the well-deserved triumph of your own or another startup!
Community Choice
The “Community Choice” category is all about giving the power of choice to the people. No jury, just you!
Nominate any Latvia-based startup that – whatever the reason – inspires you the most. Deadline is August 4.
We process the nominations and open the top most nominated startups for the public voting. The voting will be open for about a week in early September. Stay tuned for more info.
Community Choice winner will be announced along all other winners during the awards ceremony on Septmeber 8.
Meet The Jury
Anda
Asere
Journalist at Labs of Latvia
Andris K. Bērziņš
Investment Partner at Change Ventures
Liene
Briede
Vice Rector for Innovation at Riga Technical University
Ņikita Kazakevičs
Director of Innovation and Technology Department at Investment and Development Agency of Latvia
Ernests
Štāls
CEO & Co-Founder at Starwatcher.io
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