The Riga Startup Ecosystem Support Program is a strategic initiative designed to catalyze the growth of the local innovation landscape. By providing municipal co-financing, the program assists organizations that work daily to support and develop the startup community. The primary objectives are to facilitate the emergence of new high-growth companies and to strengthen the international recognition of Riga as an environment that is both welcoming and advantageous for entrepreneurs.
Strategic Goals and Objectives
- Promoting the continuous expansion and stability of the startup ecosystem within the Riga territory.
- Providing financial co-financing to support the operational activities of ecosystem-building organizations.
- Encouraging the creation of new startups through structured support mechanisms.
- Enhancing the global visibility of Riga as a premier, startup-friendly destination for founders and investors.
Eligibility and Participation
- The program is specifically tailored for organizations whose core daily operations are dedicated to the development and support of startups.
- Applicants must align their activities with the goal of fostering a robust business environment within the city of Riga.
- Detailed administrative and qualitative evaluation criteria are used to assess the eligibility and impact of each application.
Application and Selection Timeline
- Submission Deadline: The current call for applications remains open until January 30, 2026, at 23:59:59.
- Informational Seminar: An online briefing for potential applicants is scheduled for January 20, 2026, at 11:00 via MS Teams.
- Registration Requirement: Prospective participants must register for the informational seminar via the official Microsoft Forms link provided by the agency.
- Notification: Registered participants will receive technical login details via email shortly before the session begins.
Documentation and Regulatory Framework
- Competition Regulations: Comprehensive guidelines and annexes are provided to outline the full scope of the co-financing process.
- Application Form (Annex No. 1): The official document required for formal submission.
- Evaluation Framework: The process includes specific Annexes for administrative and qualitative criteria used by the commission to ensure transparency.
- Binding Regulations: The program operates under the Riga City Council binding regulations No. RD-24-283-sn, adopted on June 12, 2024.
- Reporting: Successful applicants are required to utilize a standardized final report template (Annex No. 5) to document the results of the supported activities.
Contact Information and Administration
- Managing Entity: The program is managed by the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency, located at Ratslaukums 1, Riga.
- Direct Inquiries: Specific questions regarding the program or application process can be directed to Mārtiņš Pakalniņš at +371 27897357 or via email at martins.pakalnins@riga.lv.
This support program represents a significant opportunity for ecosystem drivers to scale their impact through local government partnership. By fostering a collaborative environment, Riga continues to build a sustainable foundation for technological advancement and entrepreneurial success, ensuring that the city remains at the forefront of the regional innovation economy.