In an era defined by turbulence and transformation, deep tech is emerging as Europe’s most powerful engine for sovereignty, global influence, and meaningful impact. Explore how science-driven innovation can redefine value creation, strengthen economic resilience, and position Europe as a global leader: from startup resilience and investment models to Latvia’s rising role building a future shaped by breakthrough technology.

Speaker:

Alberto Garcia Picazo

In a rapidly changing world where security and warfare are being reimagined, innovation must adapt at the same pace. Agris Ķipurs, co-founder and CEO of Origin, shares the journey of transforming a decade of expertise in autonomous drones for action sports into groundbreaking alternatives to traditional precision-guided munitions. Origin addresses this challenge by developing precision-guided weapon systems that are both cost-effective and highly efficient. This keynote will explore the intersection of agility, affordability, and advanced technology in addressing the evolving demands of modern defense.

Speaker:

Agris Ķipurs

DeepTech companies start with a scientific discovery, and building that scientific foundation requires capital. The panel will explore why it is important to back DeepTech founders, the current mood of investors and the relationship between private and public funding in the DeepTech space. The panel will also explore alternative approaches to DeepTech IP commercialisation and the conditions required to do it successfully whilst also informing the audience on how different players - including DeepTech founders - can contribute to building a supporting environment in this space.

Speakers:

Adam Juhasz Alcedo

Leonardo Rocchetti

Alberto Garcia Picazo

Ilona Guļčaka

Speaker:

Gatis Ozols

As AI policy and innovation ecosystems rapidly evolve across Europe, enabling deeper collaboration between governments, research institutions, and industry is becoming essential to ensure AI development remains both trustworthy and impactful. How can we align strategic priorities, share best practices, and jointly build capacity to harness AI for the public good?
This panel brings together leading voices from Latvia, France, and Switzerland to explore how European actors shape an AI future rooted in societal values, ethical governance, and cross-border cooperation. The discussion will examine practical ways to strengthen Europe’s position as a global leader in human-centric AI, from regulatory frameworks to research partnerships and industrial applications. With countries increasingly active in shaping their national AI strategy and applied AI research, the conversation also highlights how smaller states can contribute meaningfully to a more cohesive, values-driven European AI agenda.
 

Speakers:

Arvils Kupris

Gatis Ozols

Agate Ambulte

Gaetan Brison

Pablo Garcia Tello

Vitnija Saldava

Disruptive technologies are transforming industries across the globe, driving innovation in fields like artificial intelligence, automation, and telecommunications. But how can startups and individual innovators break into sectors traditionally dominated by large corporations?
The session begins with two short presentations:
Andreas Muehlberger - Infineon Technologies Austria AG
“The Infineon EdgeAI Startup Challenge: How Infineon Technologies and Startups drive innovation together”
Linn Kretzschmar – „Bridging the Innovation Gap: CERN’s Model for Startup Access to Big Science”

Following the presentations, the panel discussion will explore the broader landscape of technological innovation, examining the opportunities and challenges for startups, the role of human capital in this revolution, and the critical importance of knowledge transfer and innovation in language as key drivers of change.

Speakers:
 

Ņikita Kazakevičs 

Andreas Muehlberger 

Linn Kretzschmar

Raivis Skadiņš

⁠Andris Baumanis

Speakers:

Matīss Neimanis

Povilas Žinys

Jana Budkovskaja

Pavils Misins

Organized by EIT Community Officer Latvia, spotlighting major Deep-Tech related Initiatives.
EIT Community Latvia together with EIT DTTI are committed to develop a dedicated side-event, with focus on 3 main activities:
A. Keynote: “EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative. How DTTI helps you navigate across the Deep Tech landscape in EU. Vision 2025 and beyond.” (10 minutes) Speaker: Natalia Cernecka - EIT Deep Tech Talent Initiative B. Keynote “How European Innovation development is different from other parts of the world. How should we play to our strengths?” (10 minutes) Speaker: Janis Grevins - Governing Board Member at EIT
C. Fireside Chat “Next 5 years. How to navigate the EU ecosystem to expand your abilities.” Speakers: Janis Grevins, Natalie Cernecka, Moderated by: ECO (30 minutes)
D. Meet the KICs & DTTI Pledgers networking zone. (40 min)

@ DTA

Speaker:

Jurģis Miezainis

In the session on Space Commercialization, Luca del Monte will explore how the space sector is transitioning from a government-led domain to a dynamic, innovation-driven commercial ecosystem. Drawing on his experience at the European Space Agency, he will highlight the growing role of public-private partnerships, emerging market opportunities, and the importance of integrating space technologies into broader economic sectors. The session will also address key challenges and strategies of European Insitutions to adapt to this change in paradigm.
 

Speaker:

Luca Del Monte

This talk will outline the current state of the global space economy, how it is commercializing, and discuss Europe's unique comparative advantage for the future of space activities.

Speaker:

Sinéad O'Sullivan

This presentation aims to challenge the traditional perception of space as a distant frontier, instead reframing it as an active and integral extension of Earth's economy.
Advancements in technology have made space more accessible than ever, turning it into a vital platform for improving efficiency through a better telecommunication, digitalisation, smart engineering and security.
Many ambitious projects – that some might consider too futuristic — are already in progress, using space technologies to improve life on Earth. These innovations are becoming reality much sooner than most people expect.

Speaker:

Angelina Bekasova

This panel will explore how to transform cutting-edge research and scientific knowledge into successful space ventures. Experts will discuss the key elements needed to support space business creation—from early-stage innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration to access to finance and talent. The conversation will spotlight practical strategies and ecosystem dynamics that enable deep-tech solutions to scale within the growing space economy.

Speakers:

Maud Moullec

Luca Del Monte 

Alessandro Caranci

Aleksejs Klokovs 

In this keynote, Leonardo Rocchetti explores the transformative potential of Physical AI through the lens of real-world startups. Drawing from Plug and Play Ventures' diverse portfolio, he highlights how embodied intelligence is reshaping industries—from robotics and logistics to healthcare and beyond. Attendees will gain insight into emerging trends, practical use cases, and what it takes to build investable companies at the intersection of AI and the physical world.

Speaker:

Leonardo Rocchetti

Data can be interpreted differently, and not everyone believes in it. However, it hints at who we are and what we believe in. In this short presentation, Ieva will look at different data that says something about Latvians and their attitude towards science. Hopefully, it will provide some perspective to those who are trying to find an angle to communicate science.

Speaker:

Ieva Treija

This talk explores how space technologies—like earth observation, secure communications, and navigation—contribute to national and allied security. Using real-world examples from our portfolio, we’ll show how investment in space innovation strengthens strategic resilience and technological leadership.

Speaker:

Trisha Saxena

In current times, when there is so much noise around, it is still important to hear science-based information and arguments. But what does it take for the scientists to speak up? How to deal with the negative reaction? The aim of this discussion is to encourage scientists to talk publicly and give some tips and tricks on how to deal with what happens next.

Speakers:

Ieva Treija

Edvards Francis Kuks

Mārtiņš Kaprāns

Dana Isarov

This talk explores the legal challenges posed by dual-use technologies in outer space, where the line between civilian and military applications is increasingly blurred. It will address export control regimes, compliance obligations, and how evolving space capabilities—such as Earth observation, satellite navigation, and autonomous systems—raise complex legal and strategic questions. The discussion will also consider the role of international treaties, national security interests, and the need for updated legal frameworks to manage emerging risks in space-enabled technologies.

Speaker:

Marco R. Provvidera

In today's world, marked by escalating crises—from military conflicts and illegal activities to devastating natural disasters—space technology plays a critical dual role in enhancing both security and sustainability. This presentation will highlight real-world applications where space innovations help governments, border agencies, defence institutions, and humanitarian organizations effectively respond to emerging threats and crises. Discover how leveraging space technology can safeguard societies, strengthen resilience, and promote global stability.

Speaker:

Kristaps Banga

ESA BIC Latvia offers a unique gateway for Latvian startups to enter the space sector—or bring space technologies into everyday markets. From €60,000 in equity-free funding to expert business and technical support, this programme helps founders turn ambitious ideas into scalable companies. In this session, we’ll walk you through who can apply, what to expect, and how ESA BIC Latvia helps startups connect with Europe’s growing space innovation ecosystem.

Speaker:

Lev Lapkis

This dynamic panel brings together pioneering startups, forward-thinking investors, academic experts, and representatives from the European Space Agency to explore the rapidly evolving space tech landscape. The discussion will highlight emerging trends in space entrepreneurship, investment opportunities, and the role of research and public institutions in supporting innovation. Panelists will share insights on scaling breakthrough ideas, navigating funding ecosystems, and building sustainable ventures that push the boundaries of what’s possible beyond Earth.

Speakers:

Diana Lapkis

Zuzanna Filipecka

Dr. Gianluigi Baldesi 

Jana Budkovskaja

Nikolai Adamovitch 

Estelle Godard

Many researchers remain silent on social media—understandably so. It can feel chaotic, shallow, or even hostile, far removed from the rigor and depth of academic life. But in a world overflowing with misinformation, science can’t afford to whisper.

This session explores why scientists need to communicate online and how to do it without losing credibility, clarity, or sanity. We’ll unpack strategies for engaging with different kinds of audiences (from science supporters to skeptics and bots), choosing your battles, and making your voice count in a space that often feels like the Wild West.

Whether you’re skeptical, curious, or just exhausted by the idea of “posting,” this talk is for you.

Speaker: 

Darja Aksjonova

Poland and Latvia face similar global and local challenges, therefore it is desirable to strengthen collaboration in business, science and security areas. We would like to invite you to a meeting dedicated to the recent developments in Polish science and industry in the field of space research, concluding with presentations on funding opportunities in joint research and business related projects across borders. One of the speeches will present mission “IGNIS” – Polish great achievement in the field of space research. We will be delighted to bring the topic of the space mission and sending a first Polish astronaut in history on the International Space Station and second one into space to you. We kindly ask you to register for the event here: https://www.webankieta.pl/ankieta/1475125/meeting-poland-in-space.html

@ DTA

A new approach from Norwegian start-up Nåva Space: a next-gen EVA suit that’s modular, AI-powered, and inspired by rugged earth industries. Built for adaptability, real-time support, and extreme environments on the Moon and Mars.

Speakers:

Jarle Steinberg

Scientific discoveries have the power to transform industries, economies, and societies – but only when they scale beyond the lab. This keynote will explore how public-private partnerships and long term research platform ENABLE contributed to the needs of pharmaceutical industry and public health.

Speaker:

Anders Karlen

The keynote will offer a candid look at why scientific breakthroughs alone rarely attract venture capital. It will unpack what truly drives investor decisions—from team dynamics to market viability—and why even the most promising discoveries can fall flat without a compelling business case. Attendees will gain practical insight into how to align innovation with investment readiness.

Key discussion points:
What investors actually look for beyond the science
How your founding team and storytelling impact credibility
The role of public research and behind-the-scenes diligence on founders
What founders can do to shift from interesting to investable

Speaker:

Sigvards Krongorns

This session will explore three public funding instruments through the lens of a mystery Baltic Deeptech startup, which, after delivering an introductory pitch, will receive a reverse-pitch from each speaker on how their instrument can contribute to the development of the technology. Through this dynamic interaction, the audience will gain a more personal understanding of access to public funding and how to find the right fit for technological development.
The discussion will address how Baltic deep-tech companies find R&D funding, how public funding instruments impact deep-tech technology development and scaling, and how public funding is becoming more accessible today and in the future.

Speakers:

Egita Aizsilniece-Ibema

Stephane Ouaki 

Gijsbert Wierink

Angelina Bekasova

Innovation thrives at the intersection of science, industry, and sustainable funding. This panel will explore how long-term financial support and strategic industry partnerships drive scientific breakthroughs and accelerate the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies. A key highlight will be the Innovation Fund – a unique initiative in Europe that fosters long-term innovation by providing a dedicated framework for sustained scientific and technological advancements. Experts will discuss how this model strengthens national and Europe's innovation ecosystem and what it means for the future of industry-driven research.

Speakers:

Sandra Kropa

Osvalds Pugovičs 

Vitālijs Skrīvelis

Joanna Lipner

Jurģis Miezainis 

There is a certain structure that distinguishes good content from bad. Ilze will show you the structure that makes every post win, and give tips the top creators use to never get stuck or waste time. She will explain how to make intros that grab attention and how to use AI to ease your work without losing your voice.

Speaker: 

Ilze Švarcbaha

Organized by Startin.LV as part of the FINEST SCALEUP initiative, this event is tailored for investors seeking real opportunities in Latvia’s emerging deeptech ecosystem. We’ve stripped out the noise - expect clear, relevant takeaways built for decision-makers.
You’ll leave with a sharp understanding of Latvia’s position in the European deeptech landscape, where the real opportunities are, and how to engage efficiently. You'll also have an opportunity to network with local investors to establish reliable connections.
All registered participants will receive an exclusive VC Cheat Sheet: a carefully assembled ecosystem map designed to give you a soft landing in a new market, plus speaker presentations for easy reference.

@ DTA

Speaker:

Inese Suija-Markova

Creating video content can feel overwhelming, especially with so many tools, trends, and formats available. The truth is – simplicity works best, and even complex topics can be explained through easy, engaging videos. The key is focusing on clarity, authenticity, and value rather than perfection. With the right strategy, anyone can turn difficult ideas into short, powerful videos that connect with their audience. Easy video content creation isn’t about doing less – it’s about doing it smarter.

Speaker:

Agnese Skrastīte

Speaker:

Markus Herrgard

In a rapidly evolving global biotech landscape, regional collaboration has never been more crucial for unlocking innovation and scaling impact. This panel will explore how deeper cooperation across the Baltic States and the broader Central and Eastern European (CEE) region can drive the future of life sciences. Centered around the emerging Baltic Biotech Hub project, the discussion will highlight how joint efforts in research, commercialization, investment, and talent development are shaping a stronger, more connected biotech ecosystem.

Speakers:

Igors Berkovics 

Anna Stikāne 

Markus Herrgard 

Agnė Vaitkevičienė

The hosts of the podcast “Zinātne vai muļķības” (Science or nonsense) reveal the secret to their success — how an almost unknown pop-sci show grew over the course of a single season to reach the top of the Latvian podcast charts.

Speakers:

Edžus Miķelsons

Jānis Sildniks 

How Global Industry Leaders Collaborate to Accelerate Breakthroughs - this panel dives into real-world strategies for building impactful partnerships, scaling pilot projects, and navigating the challenges of co-creation.

Speakers:

Ilona Guļčaka

Dr. Jirut Wattoom

Soufiane El Abdouni

Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Deep Tech Café, where innovation meets rhythm at the networking dinner of the Deep Tech Atelier conference. Mingle with fellow visionaries, founders, and tech leaders in a relaxed atmosphere, enhanced by a live performance from the renowned Latvian electronic music band Bel Tempo. Great food, inspiring conversations, and vibrant beats await as we connect beyond the conference floor.

The Microchip Breakfast will gather leading voices from government, academia, industry, and the investment community to discuss the current state and future trajectory of the microchip and semiconductor ecosystems in Latvia and the wider Baltic region.
Participants will gain insights into recent developments, including the establishment of dedicated microchip competence centres, and explore opportunities for collaboration across sectors and borders. The session will begin with concise presentations, followed by an open mic format designed to foster dynamic exchange of ideas, updates, and initiatives

@ Growth Stage

Speakers:

Alise Virbule

Haralds Āboliņš

Saulius Tumėnas

Jaan Raik Coordinator

Kick off your day with fresh coffee and powerful connections! Join representatives from Honda Innovations, SCG Chemicals, and AGC Group for an informal networking breakfast—co-hosted with Plug and Play and Commercialization Reactor. This is a unique opportunity for Baltic startups to connect with leading Asian corporates exploring innovation partnerships and collaboration opportunities.
Secure your space by additionally registering here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/networking-breakfast-baltic-startups-and-corporates-from-asia-tickets-1333839613189?aff=oddtdtcreator

@ DTA

We invite industry professionals to share real-world challenges that call for interdisciplinary thinking and new collaborations.
Today, both science and industry are under pressure to deliver innovative, globally competitive solutions to complex local and global problems. That’s why we at the BioPhoT platform are creating a space where industry representatives – life sciences, biomedical, medical technology, pharmaceuticals – can:
- Briefly present technical challenges and “wish list” items from their sector
- Get informal feedback and fresh ideas from researchers, experts, and fellow professionals
- Build connections that could grow into collaborations, research projects, or co-developed innovations

@ DTA


Speakers:

Osvalds Pugovičs

Sandra Kropa

Ilona Platonova

Lauris Vidzis

Roberts Melbārdis

Rauls Vēliņš

Dr. Andrea Altier

Agnė Vaitkevičienė

In the Reverse Pitching session, the tables turn as investors and organizations compete for your attention! In a fast-paced series of five-minute pitches, they will showcase their offer to startups—capital, mentorship, and game-changing opportunities. It’s your chance to find the perfect match and spark the next big partnership.

Speakers:

Kadi-Ingrid Lilles

Arta Beitāne 

Carlo Germano Ravina

Jana Budkovskaja 

Daren Wilson

 

Dr. Jirut Wattoom 

Soufiane El Abdouni

Alexander Cywes

Linn Kretzschmar

Caritta Seppa 

Brian Hotani 

During the discussion deeptech investors and industry experts will take a look at how deeptech commercialisiation in the Baltics has changed over the last few years. They pinpoint the main challenges deeptech startups are facing and share their outlook for the future.

Speakers:

Līva Pērkone 

Monta Viļumsone

Aleksandrs Parfinovičš 

Eglė Jašinskaitė

The panel will explore the unique role of Eastern Europe, particularly the Baltic region, in driving AI innovation for defence. Experts will discuss investment opportunities, sector collaboration, and how AI technologies can strenghten regional defence capabilities amid growing geopolitical challenges. The panel is organised by Riga Business School's AI Studio.

Speakers:

Glen Grant Military

Māris Andžāns

Kaspars Pollaks

Agris Ķipurs

The session spotlights the results of 10 Latvian deep tech startups that were accepted to the first cohort of new pre-accelerator support program Confluence. During the session the startups will pitch their businesses and present the progress achieved with their partners.

Featured startups: Acoustic Technologies, Alockate, A4PIC, Bdetect, Biotops, Companon, ForQueenBee, InnovoMotion, Luma, and TE-D.

One of the essential foundations for embarking on the challenging journey of transformative innovation is the ability to move beyond conventional, linear thinking patterns—such as the familiar If...then—and instead, adopt more exploratory and imaginative approaches, like asking What if? While traditional thinking often focuses on predictable outcomes and established frameworks, transformative innovation requires a mindset that is open to uncertainty, experimentation, and the exploration of uncharted possibilities.
This master class is designed to immerse participants in this shift of perspective through practical, hands-on activities. Attendees will be guided through the initial steps of breaking free from habitual thought patterns, encouraging them to question assumptions, reframe problems, and cultivate creative enquiry. By the end of the session, participants will have not only a deeper understanding of how to approach innovation differently but also tangible tools and techniques to begin applying these concepts in their own work and projects.

@ DTA

Speakers:
 

Alise Pīka-Ozola

Pablo Garcia

The panel organised in collaboration with LMT Defence and the MilTech Association, will explore emerging defence technology needs and strategies for building resilient defence infrastructures. Topics will include the role of technology in strengthening defence capabilities, collaborative innovation during crises, and the potential of public-private partnerships in driving defence innovation.

Speakers:

Artis Pabriks

Ingmārs Pūķis

Lisa Thormann

Marco R. Provvidera 

The session will feature a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing between technology universities, followed by a keynote address from NATO DIANA on new strategic collaborations in defence innovation and a panel discussion. Panelists will include representatives from RTU, NATO DIANA, ODIN, EUDIS discussing how cross-border collaborations unlock opportunities for Baltic innovators in the defence sector.

Speakers:

Anna Heim

Andris Baumanis 

Vice Rector 

Teemu Seppälä

This panel discussion, led by the Director of the Patent Office, Agris Batalauskis, will explore key aspects of intellectual property protection and highlight the role of spin-off companies in deep tech development. Experts, including a patent attorney, an EPO lecturer, representative from SIA VIRATEC – a Ventspils University spin-off and representative from the European Space Agency, will share insights on best practices in patenting and commercialization. The discussion will provide valuable expertise on navigating the IP landscape and fostering innovation-driven business growth.

Speakers:

Agris Batalauskis

Wiebke Hinrichs

Dāvids Štēbelis 

Mārcis Donerblics

Speakers:

Anna Andersone 

Alise Gurenko

Based on his experience with DIU and global venture building, Tim outlines the essential ingredients for successful defence innovation partnerships: clear mission needs, agile procurement, and early alignment between innovators, end-users, and investors. He also reflects on what Europe can adapt from the US model – and what not to replicate.

Speaker:

Timothy E. McGuire

In high-stakes R&D environments, technical brilliance is only part of the equation. The true catalyst for breakthrough innovation lies in how genius is led. This keynote dives into the real-world dynamics of guiding highly specialized teams—where PhDs, engineers, and data scientists work at the cutting edge of discovery.
We’ll explore practical strategies for breaking down silos and building strong connections between disciplines, turning isolated knowledge into shared understanding. You’ll learn how to create conditions where experts collaborate meaningfully, not just coexist.
The session also unpacks the powerful role of inclusive culture—showing how psychological safety, diversity of thought, and open communication aren't just soft skills, but core drivers of technical innovation.
Designed for researchers, engineers, and entrepreneurs immersed in deep tech, this keynote offers actionable insights for turning world-class R&D into real-world impact.

Speaker:

Anthony Giannoumis

13:00–13:05 | Introduction and welcome words – Lāsma Brenca
13:05–13:35 | “Proposal Tips & Tricks” – A practical and insightful presentation aimed at helping participants better navigate the EU funding landscape – Ágata Horwacik
13:35–13:45 | Pitching skills for science-based ideas – How strong pitch presentations can attract funding, find partners, and effectively communicate research – Aiga Salmiņa
13:45–14:00 | Real-life example: WatchBuilt and Catalyco – A local ecosystem story sharing key lessons learned from experience – Aija Hermane-Sabule

@ DTA


Speakers:

Aiga Salmiņa 

Aija Hermane-Sabule 

Lāsma Brenča

Martins Mezulis, formerly with the Defense Technology and Innovation Centre (ATIC) and experienced in adapting innovations for the National Armed Forces, will focus on the core principle of successful defence innovation: adaptation starts and ends with the end-user. While cutting-edge technologies from labs and startups hold significant potential, the true value in the defence sector lies in how these innovations align with the practical needs, constraints, and real-world applications of military personnel.

Speaker:

Mārtiņš Mežulis

Panel will bring together key ecosystem players to explore effective ways of mobilizing deep tech talent, industry, academia, investors towards impactful collaboration without compromise on mental wellbeing of talent.

Speakers:

Anton Adamovitch 

Marcel Gasser

Jakob von Rosen

Quantum computing is coming to a stage where small quantum algorithms can be tested experimentally. We will review how this has been reached and what will be the first applications for which a useful quantum advantage will be achieved. Both applications in physics and science and in data processing will be discussed.

Speaker:

Andris Ambainis

50 startups from 4 national science universities have graduated UniLabs business incubator in the recent 3 years. See pitches of selected teams, and meet founders and researchers.

1. Opening by Mr Andris Baumanis, chairman at UniLab.

2. 5 pitches by selected university spin-off companies.

3. Panel discussion 'What’s cooking in your lab?' will shed a light on what perspective technologies universities are working on.
Participants:
Mr Dins Smits - Vice rector of academic affairs at Riga Stradins University;
Ms. Liene Briede - Vice Rector for Innovations at Riga Technical University;
Mr. Martins Broduskis - Innovation and technology transfer leading expert at Innovation and Acceleration Center at University of Latvia;
Moderated by Mr Voldemars Bredikis - entrepreneur and business angel, advisor at UniLab.

4. Networking with researchers and spin-off founders.

@ Deep Tech Cafe

Digital twins used to be AI-powered simulations of machines, buildings and critical infrastructures. In the past couple of years, however, a new frontier has opened up due to the emergence of generative AI: cognitive digital twins. These are simulations of actual human beings - whether individuals or sub-segments of populations - that can be surveyed, investigated and assessed just as human beings can. What is happening on this front, and what are the implications for the future in which cognitive digital twins will be utilized widely throughout the industry?

Speaker:

Dr. Roey Tzezana

IQM develops superconducting quantum computers. Currently, we support two architectures: a square lattice with nearest neighbor configuration and a star with effective all-to-all connectivity. In this presentation, I will give an overview about the latest progress in these two directions.

Speaker:

Frank Deppe

The Deep Tech Finder is a digital tool launched by the European Patent Office (EPO) to track and analyze the landscape of deep tech startups, spin-offs, universities, and investors across Europe. It allows for research and discovery of where technological advancements are happening and which sectors attract the most innovation and investment.

@ DTA

During the panel discussion, female founders in Deep Tech and Engineering will share their experience with the advantages of female-founded startups, what obstacles they face in their daily operations and how to effectively overcome them.

Speakers:

Anda Asere 

Anna Ramata-Stunda

Solvita Kostjukova

Jekaterina Romanova

With defence expenditure set to increase across Europe, it is more important than ever to examine how these funds are being utilised. Historically, defence R&D has one of the highest multiplier effects of all government expenditure. In this talk, I will discuss ways the EU and its member states could connect defence R&D with other core policy areas such as industrial policy, twin transition, and cohesion. I will address the institutional and policy-level changes needed for the EU to transform the increased need for defence expenditure into an innovation driver.

Speaker:

Rainer Kattel

This session explores how hybrid quantum-classical algorithms can enhance AI-driven decision-making, with a focus on time-series forecasting for industries like finance, retail, and supply chain. By comparing quantum and classical models, we highlight where quantum techniques can improve forecasting accuracy and efficiency. While challenges like NISQ limitations remain, hybrid approaches provide a practical path for businesses to start leveraging quantum computing today.

Speakers:

Eva Narunovska 

Maksims Dimitrijevs

The European paradox—strong research output but limited commercialisation—gains new urgency in light of shifting geopolitical realities. This panel brings together experts from academia, industry, and government to explore how innovation systems can adapt to rising defence needs without losing sight of broader societal goals. Building on the keynote address, the discussion will examine funding gaps, strategic coordination, and the lessons emerging from Ukraine’s rapid innovation under pressure.

Speakers:

Dr. Lauma Muizniece

Rainer Kattel

Līga Ellere 

Mariia Krasnoshchok 

Harri Mäki-Reinikka

This presentation explores the transformative potential of next-generation networks, focusing on cutting-edge technological pillars: integrated photonics, free-space optical (FSO) communications, and nanophotonics and optoelectronics. These rapidly evolving domains are set to redefine the future of global connectivity by enabling ultra-high-speed, and energy-efficient communication infrastructures.
We’ll uncover how integrated photonics is revolutionizing data centers and optical interconnects through miniaturized, high-bandwidth chip-scale systems. Then, we shift to the skies with free-space optics, a technology poised to deliver fiber-like speeds without the fibers. Finally, we dive into the world of nanophotonics and optoelectronics, where the manipulation of light at the nanoscale is unlocking next-level performance.
Together, these technologies not only promise to accelerate information flow but also pave the way for a smarter, greener, and more universally connected digital world.

Meet the the most promising science projects lead by the young and rising female talents!

Speaker:

Ilijana Kovrlija

NATO DIANA was established in 2022 to accelerate the innovation and adoption of novel technology within the Alliance to promote a peaceful future. This presentation will introduce how NATO DIANA endeavours to accomplish that goal. The Challenge Programme will be highlighted, including a discussion of the 2025 challenge topics and the cohort selection process. The 2026 challenge programme timeline will then be outlined, followed by a quick discussion of best practices when submitting proposals. Finally a short summary of other DIANA programmes will be presented.

@ DTA

Leo Trukšāns will give an overview of recent LVRTC activities in LatQN project, including QKD performance results in different scenarios, as well as experience deploying and integrating Latvian developped KME and KMS systems with Fortigate encryptors and Toshiba QKD key service.

Speaker:

Leo Trukšāns

Meet the leaders embracing the future today and leveraging AI for a better tomorrow.

Speakers:

⁠Elīna Lidere

Agate Ambulte

Kristiāna Grāmatiņa

Laura Lokmane 

Enabling the NV-Center as the most promising real-world Quantum Sensor of the last decade is a key landmark in the development of wide spread Quantum Technologies. Demonstrating this through innovation of existing technologies using new approaches in the field of biomedical imaging, we aim to establish Quantum Sensors as an indispensable tool for metrology and sensorics.

Speaker:

Andris Ambainis

Launching a deep tech startup is not just a business challenge — it's a scientific, operational, and often regulatory minefield. In this candid panel, founder, investor, and experienced startup ecosystem representatives will share the unfiltered truth about the missteps that might lead to failure. Expect tactical insights, brutal honesty, and practical advice for anyone building (or backing) a startup where the science comes first — but the business still has to work.

 

Speaker:

Ieva Treija 

Daren Wilson

Annija Mežgaile 

Kristaps Cīrulis

The advent of field measurements with quantum sensors has enabled new research fields and applications by exploiting the unprecedented sensitivity that these sensors offer. Some examples of these applications include simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) in geomagnetic field, space exploration and recording of magnetic fields produced by the human brain and other sources of biomagnetism.

Speaker:

Artūrs Mozers

During this dynamic discussion with leading women in defense and cybersecurity, we'll learn about the insights on leadership, innovation, and shaping the future of security.

Speakers:

Anna Heim

Antoņina Bļodone

Liene Vītola 

Beāte Krauze-Čebotare

The Final Pitching Event is the highlight of the incubation.bio program, where our biotech teams present their ventures to a curated audience of investors, industry leaders, and ecosystem partners. After 4 months of mentorship, validation, and business development, participants take the stage to pitch their solutions—ranging from cutting-edge diagnostics to novel therapeutics and sustainable biotechnologies. This event not only showcases the next generation of biotech innovators but also opens doors to strategic partnerships, investment opportunities, and real-world impact.

@ DTA

As part of an international Consortium, the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI) is involved in various projects devoted to the development and scale-up of Nitrogen-Vacancy diamond-based quantum sensors. EDI leverages its technical expertise to collaborate with physicists and application enablers to improve the technology's performance and maturity and enable its eventual scale-up. The presentation will share experience in developing such a high-performance Q-sensor, ranging from technical challenges and opportunities to collaboration between researchers from different research fields.

Speaker:

Rihards Novickis

Explore how technology is transforming education and inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders, with insights from academia and edtech innovators.

Speakers:

Anda Priedīte

Linda Daniela Professor

Dana Narvaiša

Elchin Jafarov

Quantum light sources—whether single-photon or entangled-photon emitters—are essential for enabling quantum photonic applications. While various photonic platforms, such as silicon photonics, indium phosphide (InP), and others, are gradually transitioning toward quantum applications, no single platform integrates all the necessary quantum elements due to inherent material limitations. Polymer photonics presents a promising solution, offering high nonlinear optical efficiency and the flexibility to incorporate functional materials in host-guest systems.

Speaker:

Arturs Bundulis

In this talk I will introduce the Quantum Internet, a next generation network which is being developed to connect quantum computers across the globe. This quantum internet will enable many new applications, including secure communication and secure cloud computing. We will cover the big picture, including development trends, challenges, and new research highlights from the Quantum Internet Alliance (QIA). QIA is a multidisciplinary collaboration of academic and industry partners with the goal of building a global quantum internet made in Europe.

Speaker:

Scarlett Gauthier

Speakers:

Anna Andersone 

Alise Gurenko