Official Launch of the 4th Cycle of “Venture Catalysts” Training Program

2025-10-23 18:32 News

This week marks the official launch of the “Venture Catalysts’” 4th cycle, which is inviting researchers and future founders to take the next step in their professional growth - turning science and technology-based ideas into viable businesses. So far 120 participants have successfully graduated the program, and this cycle has attracted 53 applications from scientists, students, and entrepreneurs across Latvia and abroad, demonstrating the growing interest in the deep tech sector.

“Venture Catalysts” brings together science and entrepreneurship by offering practical support for idea commercialization. Over the course of five weeks, participants will learn how to assess their project’s market potential, protect intellectual property, attract funding, and build effective teams. The sessions will take place from October 21 to November 20.

“Knowledge-based companies invest in research and development up to five times more than traditional manufacturing enterprises, creating technologies and innovative products with high export potential. In Latvia, innovative companies account for more than 60% of the country’s total high-tech exports. The ‘Venture Catalysts’ program serves as a bridge between science and business. The knowledge gained helps turn ideas into commercial products, where every euro invested generates a significantly higher return,” emphasizes Ieva Jāgere, Director General at Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).

The program is designed to help researchers and entrepreneurs learn how to collaborate - combining scientific expertise with market experience. Participants will have the opportunity to develop their commercialization plan and receive guidance from experienced mentors. Throughout the course, special emphasis will be placed on team building, leadership, and the ability to act under uncertainty - all crucial factors for successful startup development.

“Venture Catalysts is where I get to share my passion for deep tech, entrepreneurship, and creating real impact. I’m here to support researchers and entrepreneurs who want to connect science and business and build ventures that truly make a difference,” shares Ella Kalniņa, Venture Catalysts mentor.

For participants, this program is also an opportunity to become part of a broader innovation ecosystem - to meet potential partners, investors, and like-minded professionals. This collaboration fosters new connections and joint project development, thereby strengthening Latvia’s deep tech community and laying the foundation for internationally competitive startups.

About “Venture Catalysts”

“Venture Catalysts” is a nationwide training initiative that supports the creation of science-based startups in Latvia. It is a joint initiative of LIAA, UniLab, Riga Business School at RTU, and RISEBA, financed by the ERDF project “Development of Innovative Entrepreneurship in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises” (1.2.3.1/1/23/I/001). The program’s goal is to accelerate the commercialization of deep tech innovations and promote a dynamic, competitive startup ecosystem in Latvia.