Please note that the English version of this text has been prepared with the assistance of AI, and in some instances, it may not have been subsequently reviewed or edited by the authors.
On May 14 and 15, four “BioPhoT” projects will represent the Latvian science and innovation ecosystem internationally at the leading deep tech conference in Northern Europe. “Deep Tech Atelier 2026” in the international startup pitch competition “Deep Tech Startup Pitch Competition 2026”.
“The “Deep Tech Startup Pitch Competition” is intended for early-stage deep tech startups from around the world in sectors such as medical technology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, defense technology, energy, materials science, and more. To participate in the competition, teams had to meet specific quality criteria – combining scientific and business expertise, demonstrating high internationalization growth potential for projects, and having at least a laboratory-level prototype developed, ” says “BioPhoT” Innovation Project Selection, Implementation, Monitoring, and Sustainability Manager Andris Baumanis.
He emphasizes that winning a spot in the competition alongside 33 other international projects is crucial for Latvian researchers to enhance their international recognition, as well as a valuable opportunity to present their technological solutions to international investors, industry leaders, and innovation experts, fostering collaborations and attracting implementation partners for projects.
In the project “Sorting validation available for stem cell therapy at an affordable price (DEPCELL)” the team of scientists from Riga Technical University is developing innovative cell therapy technologies using advanced cell selection and artificial intelligence solutions for quality control. In the future, these technologies can provide safer, more effective, and more accessible treatment options for patients with psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn's disease.
University of Latvia team in the project “Thermoelectric generators for self-powered microelectronics and sensors (TEPOWER)” is developing new generation wearable device technology capable of operating using human body heat, thereby reducing dependence on batteries and their associated waste. The project promotes more convenient, longer-lasting, and environmentally friendly health and environmental monitoring devices for public accessibility.
In turn, in the project “Development of an optical sensor for smart packaging of fresh seafood – FRESHWAVE” researchers at the University of Latvia are developing an easy-to-use sensor that allows for quick and accurate determination of seafood freshness without opening the packaging. This will help to detect product spoilage in a timely manner, improve food safety, and reduce the risk of consumers purchasing or consuming substandard products. At the same time, the technology will promote less food waste and more efficient resource utilization throughout the entire food supply chain.
Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry Project “New generation birch wood solution for bone fixation – a sustainable path from forest to functional implants (OsteoWood)” focuses on developing new materials made from birch wood for bone fixation as an alternative to metal implants for patients who experience allergies or inflammation from them. This solution will provide safer and more gentle treatment options while using sustainable and environmentally friendly materials in medicine.
In the semi-finals of the competition, participants will present their solutions in a three-minute presentation, followed by jury questions and a discussion with international experts. In the finals, the most promising deep tech solutions with the highest commercialization and investment attraction potential will be selected and presented on the main “Deep Tech Atelier 2026” stage. In preparation for the competition, participants will have the opportunity to improve their presentation skills through professional pitch training, as well as participate in a special investor bootcamp session.
In addition to the “DEPCELL” project and seven other “BioPhoT” platform projects, and prototypes developed so far, can be explored in the conference exhibition area within “Deep Tech Atelier 2026,” while on May 13th, a special “BioPhoT” side event will also take place – Open Door Day, during which anyone interested can visit the University of Latvia, the University of Latvia Institute of Solid State Physics, and the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, exploring their infrastructure, research, and innovation development.
