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Within the framework of the International Deep Tech Commercialization Forum “Innovation Impact Forum 2026,” parallel “BioPhoT” presentation sessions took place on May 12th at the University of Latvia's House of Science, where research project teams in biomedicine and photonics presented their technological solutions to investors, industry representatives, and innovation experts. 

“The ”Innovation Impact Forum 2026" brought together experts from leading innovation, investment, and technology organizations to strengthen the Baltic region's position in the European innovation space, while promoting knowledge transfer, international cooperation, and the commercialization of high value-added technologies. 

More than 20 “BioPhoT” research projects participated in presentation sessions within two thematic categories: “Photonics, Smart Materials, and Advanced Engineering Systems” and “Biomedicine, Medical Technologies, and Pharmacy.” A panel of international experts evaluated the presentations from research groups at leading Latvian higher education and research institutions, providing teams with professional feedback on the commercialization potential, market readiness, and development opportunities of their technologies.

The project “ received first place and a prize of 1000 EUR from the BioPhoT platform.”Detection and Monitoring of Clinically Significant Biomarkers Using Sweat Tests (SwyCad)”(RTU, Project Manager Kristaps Kļaviņš).

Another winner of an 800 EUR prize in the category “Biomedicine, Medical Technologies, and Pharmacy” was the project “BIOmaterials for infection control and rapid bone regeneration (BioCore)”(RTU, Project Manager Dagnija Loča), but in the category “Photonics, Smart Materials and Advanced Engineering Systems” - “Smart Inks for Printed Chromogenic Windows”(DU, Project Manager Vyacheslavs Gerbreders).

The third-place prize of 600 EUR in the “Biomedicine, Medical Technologies, and Pharmacy” category was awarded to “Field Diagnostics: Aptamer-Based Device for Rapid Malaria Detection (Rapid-M)”(LU, project manager Līga Kunrade), but in the category “Photonics, Smart Materials and Advanced Engineering Systems” received “High-efficiency contactless heating system based on permanent magnets for metallurgical applications (PM-Heat)”(LU, Project Manager Toms Beinerts).

Special thanks to the Latvian Composites Association and its director, Gunārs Kosojš, for the awarded 1,000 EUR Audience's Choice Award in the “Photonics, Smart Materials, and Advanced Engineering Systems” category, emphasizing the importance of advanced technologies in the development of future industries. This award was received by the project “Fast Laser Speckle Based Evaluation of Antibacterial Resistance Evaluation (FLARE)”(LU, Project Manager Aleksey Likhachev).

In addition, the project “Real-Time Drug Efficacy and Integrated Cytotoxicity Testing Platform in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma (PREDICT-PDAC)”(LU, Project Manager Karīna Goluba), who received the sponsor Plug and Play Tech Center award – three hours of mentoring training.

The presentations in both categories were evaluated by an international jury of industry-leading experts. The evaluation committee for the “Biomedicine, Medical Technologies, and Pharmacy” category consisted of four representatives: Ilona Gulchak, Andrea Basso, Antons Adamovičs, and Povilas Žinys, ensuring that projects were assessed from an investment and commercialization perspective. The jury for the second category, “Photonics, Smart Materials, and Advanced Engineering Systems,” included Matīss Neimanis, Ali Jazairy, Raj Mendhir, and Gunārs Kosojs, representing the fields of intellectual property, deep tech investment, and industrial innovation. We thank the jury for their participation and contribution to the sessions.

“The ”Innovation Impact Forum 2026" provided an opportunity to explore the deep technology development process from patent to market, discuss with policymakers, patent office representatives, technology transfer offices, venture capital funds, and industry partners, as well as build professional connections with international investors, industry experts, and startup representatives. 

Photo: Toms Norde

On May 12, 2026, from 8:30 AM, the international deep tech commercialization forum “Innovation Impact Forum 2026,” organized by the University of Latvia Innovation and Acceleration Center, will take place at the University of Latvia's House of Science, Jelgavas iela 3, Riga, in the “Alfa” auditorium. The event will bring together representatives of the Baltic innovation ecosystem, European investors, policymakers, and industry experts, creating a strategic platform for cooperation, knowledge exchange, and investment development.

The forum is envisioned as a high-level discussion and networking space that will analyze the key factors driving the transition of deep technology innovation from scientific discoveries to commercially viable solutions in global markets. The event's content covers intellectual property management, technology transfer mechanisms, investment structures, and international cooperation models.

Event participants will have the opportunity to understand the development process of deep technology innovation from patent to market, meet with policymakers, patent office representatives, technology transfer offices, venture capital funds, and industry partners, gain in-depth insights into intellectual property strategies and investment architecture, and build professional connections with international investors, industry experts, and startup representatives.

The forum program is structured into four thematic blocks. The first block is dedicated to intellectual property issues, analyzing the importance of patents in the commercialization of innovation. The second block focuses on technology transfer and cooperation models between academia and industry. The third block will examine international success stories, highlighting innovation development in cross-border contexts. Finally, the fourth block features parallel “BioPhoT” pitch sessions, where deep tech teams will present their solutions to potential investors.

Within the forum, internationally recognized experts from leading institutions and industries will be presenting. Among the speakers are Ali Jazairy from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Andrea Basso from MITO Tech Ventures, Cyrus Gunalan Veloo from Caetan, Michael Norton from Wolven Industries, and Raj Mendhir from Wippd. Panel discussions will feature representatives from WIPO, Kaunas University of Technology, TALTEC, the University of Latvia, and other international and regional innovation ecosystem players, providing a multidimensional perspective on intellectual property management, technology transfer, and investment strategies.

The day also includes thematic discussions, networking breaks, and a lunch break, which will foster informal contacts among representatives from various sectors. At the end of the forum, there will be an awards ceremony for the best “BioPhoT” pitch presentations and a networking event with investors, industry representatives, and the research community, thereby promoting the development of new partnerships and investment opportunities.

“The ”Innovation Impact Forum 2026" aims to strengthen the Baltic region's position in the European innovation space, while promoting knowledge transfer, international cooperation, and the commercialization of high value-added technologies. The event will be held in English. More information about the event program and registration is available here.

The “BioPhoT” Biomedical and Photonics platform invites interested parties to an open day, which will take place on May 13th as part of the international conference “Deep Tech Atelier 2026”. During the open day, you will be able to visit the University of Latvia, the Institute of Solid State Physics of the University of Latvia, and the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, exploring their infrastructure, research, and innovation development.

The event will provide an opportunity for students, young researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and other interested parties to better understand how scientific ideas are developed into practical, market-ready solutions in Latvia. Participation in the events requires pre-registration and is free of charge. More information and registration – “On the ”BioPhoT” website.

At the event, visitors will also be able to explore projects implemented within the “BioPhoT” platform, gaining hands-on insight into research in biomedicine, photonics, and other high-tech fields. The program is designed to foster dialogue between science, industry, and investors, strengthening cooperation and promoting the commercialization of innovation.

Open House Program (May 13):

• University of Latvia
  Jelgavas street 1 and Jelgavas street 3 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  Tours of state-of-the-art laboratories (chemistry, optometry, physics, atomic physics), meetings with technology transfer experts, and insights into innovation and acceleration programs.
• Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia
  Ķengaraga Street 8 | 10:00 AM–12:00 PM
  Tours of modern infrastructure, including cleanrooms and laboratories, as well as insights into research in the fields of photonic microchips, quantum photonics, smart materials, batteries, and microfluidics.
• “POLYCLAY-UV” Project Open Day
  Jelgavas street 3 | 1:30 PM–3:30 PM
  Meeting with the “BioPhot” project team and insight into the development of “POLYCLAY-UV” – an innovative polyphenol-clay composite created from coffee and tea industry by-products, intended as a sustainable, multifunctional UV protection ingredient.
• Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis
  Aizkraukles Street 21 | 4:00 PM–6:00 PM
  An overview of the full drug development cycle, meetings with researchers, and tours of structural biology, drug design, organic synthesis, biotechnology, and pharmacology laboratories.

Open Door Day is an opportunity not only to get acquainted with the innovation process up close, but also to build new contacts and cooperation opportunities.

“The ”Biomedicine and Photonics Research Platform for the Creation of Innovative Products“ (”BioPhoT“) is implemented under the leadership of the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, with the participation of the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science, the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, the University of Latvia, the Institute of Solid State Physics of the University of Latvia, the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, the Food Safety, Animal Health and Environmental Science Institute ”BIOR", Rīga Stradins University, and Riga Technical University. 

Project No. IVPP-EM-Inovācija-2024/1-0002 “Biomedicine and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Product Creation (BioPhoT)” is being implemented within the framework of the long-term national research program “Innovation Fund – Long-term research program,” financed by the Ministry of Economics.

“An intensive business development week was held within the framework of ”BioPhoT," during which more than 25 research teams worked purposefully on advancing their projects to the next stage of development. 

The sessions were led by Dr. Marco Rüedi, an entrepreneur and life sciences business development mentor at the Swiss innovation agency “Innosuisse.” Under his guidance, teams participated in both individual mentoring sessions and thematic workshops, where they received direct, practical, and constructive feedback. This process allowed each team not only to refine their project's value proposition but also to more clearly define an action plan for the next four months.

The program was structured by day, with each day dedicated to a specific theme and group of participants. This approach ensured in-depth and personalized work with each team, while maintaining high intensity and a focus on results. Participants particularly appreciated this format, emphasizing that similar workshops would be valuable to organize regularly and expand into other areas.

Marco Rüedi, in turn, appreciated both the quality of the ideas and the team's engagement in the discussions. He emphasized that the ability to step outside one's comfort zone is often crucial for projects to gain visibility among investors and in the industry.

Within the week, an informal networking event also took place on the evening of April 16th at StartUp House Riga, where Marco Rüedi shared his insights on working with Latvian researchers and innovation potential. Startup founder Andrii Shekhirev also joined the discussion, sparking a conversation about industry development prospects in Latvia. At the end of the event, participants had the opportunity to continue their conversations individually, discussing topics relevant to them in depth and forming new collaborative contacts.

This week once again confirmed that Latvian researchers have both the knowledge and the motivation to develop their projects to the next level. International experience and practical support are particularly important in this process, helping to structure the development path and accelerate the go-to-market progression.

The next meeting with Marco Rüedi is already planned for August of this year, continuing the work started on project development and strengthening international competitiveness.

More about the past week:

The “BioPhoT” Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform, in collaboration with international experts from “Hello Tomorrow,” has selected ten strong “BioPhoT” research teams through a competitive process to represent Latvia at one of the world's most significant deep technology events – “Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2026”This year it will take place on June 11th and 12th in Amsterdam.

“More than 25 research project applications were received for the competition. An international jury, including experts from Hello Tomorrow, evaluated all applications and selected eight “BioPhoT” research and innovation project teams that most strongly demonstrate the global competitiveness of their technologies. Participation in such an event is a strategically important opportunity for Latvian science and innovation to position themselves in the global market,” says Andris Baumanis, head of the project selection and mentoring process.

The delegation includes representatives from leading Latvian research institutions and universities:

• Gunita Paidere, “GENeric EXtraction Module (GENEX )”
• Antons Sizovs, “Masked Oxygen Carriers Based on Hemoglobin (SHOC)”
• Līga Brasliņa, “Liquid biopsy biomarkers for bladder cancer: LiqBio-BC”
• Jānis Baroniņš, “Affordable Sorting Validation for Stem Cell Therapy (DEPCELL)”
• Dagnija Loča, “BIOmaterials for Infection Control and Fast Bone Regeneration (BIOCORE)”
• Liga Kunrade, “Smart diagnostics: an aptamer-based device for rapid malaria detection”
• Mārcis Eimanis, “Multifunctional drone with dual-helical propulsion DURBIS”
• Kaspars Eiduks, “Fast Laser Speckle Based Evaluation of Antibacterial Resistance Evaluation (FLARE)”

The delegation is also supplemented by the January 26th “BioPhoT” Industry Days Winners are Sergejs Gaidukovs's project “Resilient EMI Protection for High-Integrity Cybersecurity Solutions” and Kristaps Kļaviņš's project “Determination and Monitoring of Clinically Significant Biomarkers Using Sweat Analysis (SwyCard).” Both solutions were recognized as the best in their categories among 13 presented innovations and gained the opportunity to join the Latvian delegation.

Participation in the “Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2026” is a clear affirmation that Latvia's research and innovation are capable of competing internationally. It is not only an opportunity to showcase technological achievements but also a strategic step towards transforming targeted research ideas into commercially viable solutions, with a special focus on high value-added areas such as biomedical sciences, medical technologies, photonics, smart materials, and engineering. Participation in the event will allow for the establishment of new strategic partnerships, as well as the identification of investment attraction and export opportunities. International visibility at such events is a crucial tool for transforming Latvian innovations into global successes.

“The ”BioPhoT“ platform will participate in collaboration with the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) and the Riga Investment and Tourism Agency (RITA), jointly achieving the special status of Hello Tomorrow ”Visionary Partner." This provides an opportunity to more extensively position Latvia's deep tech ecosystem, its participants, and its goals. A multifaceted program is planned for the stand, with its main objective being to present Latvia's scientific and technological achievements to an international audience, establish new collaborative contacts, and attract investor interest.

Delegation teams will also have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive Investor Day at an event that will bring together leading deep tech investors and industry leaders. Participation is limited and in this case provided as a result of the partnership between “BioPhoT” and Hello Tomorrow. Alongside the “BioPhoT” teams, the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2026 will also host a broader Latvian research delegation, including representatives from the partner organizations of the “BioPhoT” platform, strengthening the international visibility of Latvia's innovation ecosystem.

On May 13th, as part of Deep Tech Atelier week, “BiophoT” invites you to take advantage of a unique opportunity—to visit leading innovation hubs in Latvia. From fundamental science to early-stage deep tech solutions, this day offers a broad perspective on the development of future technologies.

More information below:

An international investor meeting took place at Riga Technical University's Science and Innovation Center on March 24th. The meeting aimed to introduce foreign investors to Latvia's science-intensive innovation ecosystem, with a particular emphasis on the “BioPhoT” platform's contribution to innovation development and commercialization.

The event focused on fostering collaboration between science, business, and investors. During the meeting, solutions developed in the “BioPhoT” and UniLab Elevate pre-acceleration programs were presented. These demonstrated Latvia's research potential and its ability to create internationally competitive technologies.

“BioPhoT” stands out as a significant platform that supports the development of research ideas into practically applicable solutions, while strengthening collaboration between researchers and industry. A key role was also assigned to collaboration with partners, including LatBAN, which expands opportunities for attracting early-stage funding and promotes the growth of startups in an international environment.

Several “BioPhoT” platform researchers presented their solutions:

• Kristaps Kļaviņš – Detection and Monitoring of Clinically Significant Biomarkers Using Sweat Tests (SwyCad)
• Arita Dubņika – Next-Generation Blood Collection Tube for Bone Regeneration Procedures (Need4Bone)
• Sergejs Gaidukovs – Durable EMI Protection for High-Integrity Cyber Security Applications
• Roman Viters – Increase wind turbine life by early detection of blade erosion (BLADE LIFE)
• Artis Kinēns – Optical sensor development for smart packaging of fresh seafood - FRESHWAVE
• Mārcis Eimanis Multifunctional drone with dual helicoidal propulsion

The presented technologies demonstrate significant potential to develop into science-intensive startups. Some solutions are already approaching practical application, including in the defense sector, confirming a successful transition from research to market.

LU CFI invites you to Scientist Breakfasts, dedicated to the topic “Value Proposition and Business Model in Project Applications and Implementation.” The event will cover essential aspects that help transform research results into practical and market-demanded solutions.

The seminar will be led by Aldis Greitāns, who will share his experience and practical examples from the innovation management and business environment.

Dates April 30, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Vieta University of Latvia, Institute of Solid State Physics, Ķengaraga Street 8, Riga (4th floor meeting room) and remotely via Microsoft Teams
To participate, please register in advance.: https://luma.com/eq2jgknm

Topics

• The Science vs. Market Paradox – Why a Brilliant Discovery Doesn't Always Become a Successful Business
• Problem Awareness Scale – Customer Segmentation by Need Awareness
• Quantifying the Value Proposition – Translating Technical Parameters into Measurable Benefits
• “Death Valley” Communication – Building Collaboration Between Scientists and Investors

About the lecturer

Aldis Greitāns is a leader and lecturer with over 25 years of experience in the fields of financial technologies, digital services, and telecommunications. He is the Chairman of the Board of the Latvian State Radio and Television Center and a lecturer at the Riga Business School of Riga Technical University.

Additional information

Coffee and snacks will be provided during the event.
Participation is possible both in-person and remotely.

On April 1st, Riga Stradinš University hosted a practical seminar titled “Scientists” Breakfast: From Lab to Value." The seminar aimed to strengthen the BioPhoT team and researchers' ability to transform their scientific results into a clear, structured, and compelling value proposition. The event brought together scientists and interested parties from various fields who, alongside experienced mentor Voldemārs Brēdiks, deeply analyzed how to define the significance of their research beyond academia, by addressing funders, collaborators, and end-users.

There was a fundamental difference between the science and innovation perspectives at the seminar. While in academia, value is traditionally measured by publications, citations, and methodological rigor, in the innovation ecosystem, what is crucial is what problem a specific solution addresses, who needs it, and what its practical impact is. During the seminar, the mentor explained how to successfully transition from thinking “What am I researching?” to “Why should anyone care?”.

Participants learned about the principles of creating a value proposition, paying special attention to the ability to distinguish a technology's functionality from user benefits and the actual “pain points” that the solution addresses. The importance of problem definition was also emphasized, analyzing the frequency, severity, and lack of existing solutions for a problem, as well as the ability to substantiate the scale of the problem with specific data and examples.

In the practical workshop session, participants worked on formulating the value proposition of their projects and developing a short idea outline, also known as an elevator pitch. During this process, special attention was paid to different target audiences – users, decision-makers, and payers – emphasizing that each of these groups requires a distinct message.

Given that the event took place on Shadow Day, students – shadows who had come along with industry professionals – also actively participated in the seminar. They not only observed the process but also engaged in discussions, participated in value generation, and presented their ideas, demonstrating a high level of interest and understanding of innovation creation principles.

The workshop served as an important preparatory step for the next steps in research and innovation development, in particular with a view to the upcoming BioPhoT call for research and innovation projects, where a clearly defined socio-economic impact and a solid value proposition are essential.

We invite “BioPhoT” research projects to apply. Deep Tech Atelier 2026 For startup competitions and the Demo zone!

Deep Tech Atelier 2026 will take place from May 14th to 15th at Fantadroms in Rīga. It is one of the leading deep tech events in Europe, bringing together over 2,000 startup founders, investors, companies, and ecosystem leaders, focusing on breakthrough technologies.

Startup bankruptcy – present your solution.

The startup competition offers an opportunity to present your solution to an international jury in a 3-minute pitch format, followed by a 2-minute Q&A session.

Selected projects will have the opportunity:

• Present your solution leading European deep tech investors
• Gain visibility In the European and Nordic deep tech ecosystem
• Build contacts with potential industry partners
• Demonstrate your technology over 2,000 conference attendees
• Access the selected bonus fund, which combines financial and practical support
• Participate in bootcamp sessions, to improve your pitch presentation

Application deadline: April 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM
Sign up here

Demo Zone – showcase your prototype

Research projects with a physical prototype or a demonstrable product are also invited to participate in the Demo Zone, at a special “BioPhoT” stand.

• The number of spots is limited (16 PIP demo spots), and in case of a large number of applications, the organizers reserve the right to select based on the submission date.

The demo zone provides the opportunity to:

• Gain visibility among investors, companies, and peer teams
• Get direct feedback for technology
• Identify potential pilot project collaboration opportunities

Application deadline:  April 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM
Sign up here

Don't miss the opportunity to present and showcase your research project at one of Europe's leading deep tech events!

In order to ensure a common understanding of the key stages, terminology and cooperation mechanisms of technology transfer and to strengthen institutional competences in this field, technology transfer and intellectual property experts, researchers and other interested parties are invited to participate in the webinar series “Technology Transfer Fundamentals: From Idea to Innovation”.

​Researchers and other interested parties are invited to an online seminar on April 23 at 10:00 AM about collaboration with companies and market validation of ideas – we will share experiences, examples, and practical advice.

​M.Sc. Chemistry, M.Sc. Nutrition Līga Žūka, leading innovation expert at the University of Latvia's Innovation and Acceleration Center, will present the most effective cooperation models between universities, scientific institutions, and companies. Special attention will be given to the experiences of various countries, analyzing how academic-industry cooperation is organized in different innovation ecosystems. The Swiss academic-industry cooperation model, where universities, companies, and the public sector form a close innovation partnership, will also be discussed.

We will also analyze in more detail the barriers and opportunities for collaboration with industry, looking at them from the perspectives of various stakeholders—researchers, companies, and investors.

​M.Sc. Eng., MBA Egils Bēriņš, an expert in the commercialization of innovative solutions at the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI), will present the experience of the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI) in transforming research results into commercial value and strengthening partnerships with companies.

Norris Zoom platform

Working language: Latvian

Registration: https://luma.com/g3larw2k

Participants have the opportunity to submit questions of interest to them by April 20th by sending them to the email address: alise.ose@osi.lv.

We inform you that the webinar will be recorded.

What is the current state of Latvia's life sciences ecosystem - and how does it look from an international perspective?

We invite you to an informal networking evening with Marco Rüedi, to continue the discussion on the life sciences ecosystem in Latvia, gain fresh insights into its strengths and development opportunities, as well as participate in an open conversation with other researchers, startup representatives and industry professionals.

🕐 16 April, 17:30-20:00
📍 StartUp House, Lastādijas iela 12 k-3
🎟 Registration: https://luma.com/604x42fz

After several days working with local research teams, Swiss life sciences expert Marco Rüedi will share a fresh, independent perspective on our ecosystem - what's working well, where the challenges lie and where the opportunities for development lie.

This is not a formal conference event, but rather an informal networking evening for discussions and idea exchange. It will bring together researchers, startup representatives, and other industry participants to collectively look at familiar things from a different perspective, ask uncomfortable but important questions, and build new collaborations.

It is also an opportunity to gain an external perspective that can help you understand your project direction more clearly, see new opportunities for collaboration and better position yourself in the life sciences ecosystem.

The event will be an opportunity to continue discussions with Marco Rüedi in an informal setting, to discuss the next steps for development and to outline potential opportunities for cooperation.

How to turn research into a clear and convincing proposal? Not all ideas are equally strong – those that can convince win. In the world of science, excellence is measured by publications, while in the world of innovation, it is measured by the value it brings to the user, investor, or society.

We invite you to a practical seminar where, together with experienced mentors Voldemārs Brēdiks and Jānis Zaltāns, we will learn to articulate the essence of research in a way that is understandable not only to industry experts but also to funders and collaboration partners.

The registration form is available here.

Why participate?

The seminar is a strategic preparatory phase for two important events:

• BioPhoT for the tender (planned for August 2026);
• for FLPP project applications (to be announced within the next month), where socioeconomic impact and value definition are critical points.

Seminar programme

The event will be held in Latvian.

Since April 1st will be Shadow Day, we especially invite you to bring your eels, to introduce them to the scientific environment and the development of scientific projects.

​From lab to market – a week that could be a turning point for your project.

​A practical and intensive program for Latvian life sciences teams who want to take the next step – from research to a real, fundable solution. The program is led by one of Switzerland's most experienced Life Science startup mentors.

Research has already been initiated. You have data and results. But is it clear how to turn them into a project that interests investors or financiers? It is at this stage that many research teams stop. This program is designed to help bridge this gap.

You will work closely with Marco Rüedi – doctors, entrepreneurs, and business coaches – in a practical, discussion-based format. There will be no excess of lectures and theory. Instead, there will be work on your own project and specific, honest feedback.

Until April 7th, we invite you to apply for participation in the program, which will take place from April 13th to 17th – each team will participate in one thematic day according to their project's direction. The number of spots is limited, and teams will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply: https://luma.com/5n88bue8

​What will you get:

• Clarity on your current location
  Together, we will identify what else is missing for your solution to be ready for clinical or market development.

• Specific development path
  Create a clear and well-founded plan – based on the data up to market entry (preclinical, regulatory and clinical development)

• Understand the fundraising process
  You will understand what investors and funding programs actually want to see to make a decision.

• Learning from others
  You will work with other teams, share experiences, and gain an outside perspective.

​Programme:

• Day 1 (13.04.) - Assistive Technologies
  (e.g., lab-on-chip, materials, sensors, AI and data solutions)
  Riga Technical University
• Day 2 (14.04.) - Biotechnology and Pharmacy
  (including synthetic molecules and nutraceutical products)
  Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis
• Day 3 (04.16) – Diagnostics
  (biomarkers, in vitro diagnostics, screening, and molecular diagnostics solutions)
  Riga Stradiņš University

This will be Marco's first time working with Latvian teams, and he will offer an approach he has developed over 10 years in the Swiss biotech and medtech environment. You will receive direct, constructive feedback and leave with a clear action plan for the next four months.

​A follow-up meeting in Riga is scheduled for August to discuss your progress.

By mentor:

Marco Rüedi, MD, eMBA

​Doctor, entrepreneur, and Life Science business coach (Innosuisse), founder of Startup-Doc

Over 30 years of experience at the intersection of medicine, science, and business.
For the last 10 years, he has been working with startups in Switzerland. – helping researchers turn ideas into developable and investable projects.

Her approach combines clinical precision with a practical business perspective.

​From lab idea to spin-off, startup, and company.

Startin.LV, EIT Community Latvia, and Iron Wolf Capital invite science-intensive technology enthusiasts, researchers, and investors to “DeepTech Breakfast,” which will take place on March 26th at Startup House Riga. This is an official TechChill side event, but a TechChill ticket is not required for participation.

The event will gather investors and stakeholders from the deep tech industry, and it's a great opportunity to network in an informal atmosphere, learn about the latest trends, and make connections before the conference buzz.

A Special Opportunity for BioPhoT Teams: Targeted Investor Conversations

As part of the event, BioPhoT project teams will be organized for targeted matchmaking with deeptech investors. Participation in such discussions, regardless of the project's stage of readiness, is valuable for understanding in a timely manner what investors expect from the team, the technology, and its development plans.

Event Program (March 26):

• 08:30 – 09:00 | Arrival, coffee, and informal networking

• 09:00 – 09:20 | Iron Wolf Capital “Baltic Deep Tech Report 2026” presentation

• 09:20 – 09:30 | FINEST SCALEUP Key Takeaways for Deeptech Teams

• 09:30 – 09:40 | Venture Capital Perspective – How Early-Stage Teams Should Think About Fundraising

• 09:40 – 09:50 | EIT Community Latvia News

• 09:50 – 10:00 | Announcements (Open Mic)

• 10:05 AM – 10:30 AM | Organized Networking and Matchmaking

How to participate?

1. Register for the event: here

2. Apply for investor talks: BioPhoT teams wishing to participate in the matchmaking session are invited to write to biophot@rtu.lv by March 23rd. We will identify investors and select 1-2 investors for each team whose interests align with the industry your team represents.

Location Location: Startup House Riga (Lastādijas iela 12-k-3, Riga). Note: Photography will take place at the event, and materials may be used on social media.

“BioPhoT in collaboration with the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) invites PIP research teams to apply for one of the world's most important deep-tech events - Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2026, which will take place in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on 11-12 June.

Apply at by 20 March 2026, by completing the application form and attaching a project presentation (pitch deck): https://forms.gle/44B8LdvcnBhMvSib7

Eight BioPhoT research teams will be selected through a competitive process to represent Latvia at the event and present their technology to an international audience.

Teams will get the chance to:

• Participate in the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit 2026 in Amsterdam;
• receive travel and accommodation expenses per team member;
• present your technology at the BioPhoT stand in the International Exhibition Area;
• build direct contacts with investors and industry partners.

In addition, teams approved by Hello Tomorrow experts will also have the opportunity to participate in Investor Day (10 June) - an exclusive investor event bringing together leading deep-tech investors and technology leaders.

“Hello Tomorrow is a global innovation network that has become one of the most influential supporters of the deep-tech ecosystem in the world over more than a decade. Each year, the Hello Tomorrow Global Summit brings together more than 3,000 industry experts, investors and technology companies from around the world, creating a unique environment for developing new deep-tech solutions, building partnerships and attracting investment.

To promote the involvement of Latvian researchers and start-ups in international innovation networks, a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Hello Tomorrow was signed at the BioPhoT Industry Day on 26 January, ensuring closer collaboration with the global innovation ecosystem.

Teams are advised to contact their project mentor before submitting their application to discuss the usefulness of participating and the team's readiness for an international event.

Further information about participation is available from the project mentors or by contacting the BioPhoT platform coordinator Aigars Lazdiņš (e-mail: Aigars.Lazdins@osi.lv; phone: +371 26401099).

On 5 March, the satellite event “Young Millionaires and Technologies’ of the research platform ”BioPhoT“ took place at the University of Latvia (UL) House of Sciences as part of the festival ”Icebreakers“26”. Participants of the event not only got to know the latest innovations of Latvian scientists and students, but also predicted their commercial future in an interactive format.

The main aim of the event was to break down the barrier between science and business. During the event, five authors of innovations supported by the BioPhoT platform and potentially emerging innovations presented their ideas in short and concise presentations. Each presentation was followed by a unique element: a business forecasting game, where the audience together with experts assessed the viability of the ideas and predicted their development over a five-year period.

The projects presented covered a wide range of technologies, from high tech medicine to innovative energy solutions:

• Ilva Trapiņa: “Early, accurate, personalised: an MI-based biomarker panel for prognostication of multiple sclerosis progression PRECISE-MS”.
• Artūrs Brēķis: “Innovative power generation technologies at the Institute of Physics, University of Latvia, Salaspils”.
• Zane Šmite: “Neuromuscular workload assessment for personalisation of the training process”.
• Alexander Dutov: “Optical biosensors for tumour detection”.
• RTU student project: “VR glasses for children who experience anxiety from a medical environment”.

Alongside the evaluation of new ideas, leaders of the innovation industry shared their experience: co-founder of SIA “Alternative plants” Mārtiņš Borodušķis, founder of spin-off company SIA EPM Riga Toms Beinerts, CEO of SIA Fluffy Unlimited and SIA Sepsiscan Didzis Rūtītis, sustainable business strategist and Point2Hectare co-founder Diāna Šmite. The experts defined a number of essential prerequisites for the successful development of start-ups. The most important factors were a strong and united team, a willingness to experiment and persevere even after mistakes, as well as a genuine passion for your product, service or project.

These values were illustrated in practical action by a special guest: the Latvian toy brand KNOP KNOP. Rodion Zenevich, a representative of the company, demonstrated how the combination of design and sustainability can create a product with high global potential.

One of the most striking conclusions of the event was that “when you think a billion, millions will come”. This serves as a call to Latvian researchers and start-ups not to be afraid of big ambitions at the very beginning of a project. The event ended with a networking session, giving participants the opportunity to speak personally to experts in the field and forge new partnerships to commercialise innovations.

Project No IVPP-EM-Innovation-2024/1-0002 “Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products (BioPhot)” is implemented under the long-term national research programme “Innovation Fund - Long-Term Research Programme”, funded by the Ministry of Economics.

Photo by Dmitrijs Sulžics, BioPhoT“

From 15 to 18 June 2026, the 16th International Conference on Functional Materials and Nanotechnologies (FM&NT 2026) will take place in Riga, bringing together researchers, engineers, industry representatives, and policy makers from around the world. The conference will be held at the House of Science of the University of Latvia. 

FM&NT is a leading regional forum for advances in functional materials and nanotechnologies, featuring topics such as energy materials, photonics, ferroelectrics, microfluidics, and biomedical technologies, theoretical modelling, device technologies, and large-scale research infrastructures.

Representatives of EIT RawMaterials will provide insights into current EU priorities, sector needs, and funding opportunities for commercialisation and innovation projects. A dedicated session will introduce EIT RawMaterials innovation instruments, including KAVA Call, designed to accelerate validated technologies towards market readiness.

The FM&NT 2026 programme will feature plenary and invited lectures, oral and poster sessions, as well as thematic workshops and a DEMO exhibition area - opportunity to showcase your prototype and explore new collaborations, offering plenty of room for discussion and new connections.

Important dates 

• 6 March 2026 – Abstract submission deadline 
• 15 April 2026 – Early-bird registration deadline 
• 15–18 June 2026 – FM&NT 2026 Conference 
• 18-19 June 2026 - SWEB Summer School on Functional Coatings and X-Chromic Materials 

Since its launch in 2006 by the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, the FM&NT has developed into a key Baltic–Nordic forum for presenting cutting-edge research and discussing emerging trends in functional materials and nanotechnologies. 

The conference is organized by the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, together with the University of Tartu, Vilnius University, and the University of Latvia. 

More information about the conference, programme, and registration is available at: fmnt.lv 

On 5 March, the ’BioPhoT“ satellite event ”Young Millionaires and Technology“ will take place as part of the Icebreakers”26 Business Opportunities Festival. From 15.40 to 16.40, researchers, innovation experts and future investors will gather in Room 105 of the University of Latvia House of Sciences to discuss the development of scientific ideas and their potential in the market.

Current and potential BioPhoT participants from the University of Latvia will present their research and innovation ideas at the event. In short, concise presentations, the researchers will reveal the nature of the ideas, the stages of development and the next steps towards commercialisation, as well as explain why these ideas are worth millions.

An interactive business forecast game will add a special dynamic to the event - after each presentation, the audience will take on the role of investors, assessing the growth opportunities of projects and forecasting their development over the next five years. This format promotes an active dialogue between science and business, allowing ideas to be seen from a market perspective and giving researchers immediate feedback.

The event will be complemented by experienced innovation experts who will share practical insights on the challenges of commercialisation and the key success factors for start-ups.

“BioPhoT's satellite event ”Young Millionaires and Technology“ invites everyone to become part of a place where scientific ideas are transformed into business opportunities and the next success stories are born.

The Icebreakers’26 Business Opportunities Festival is a platform that brings together students, researchers and entrepreneurs, promoting the exchange of ideas, innovation and collaboration between the academic, public and private sectors. The festival will take place on 5 March at the University of Latvia, House of Sciences, Jelgavas iela 3, from 10.00 to 18.00. Participation - free of charge, in advance by registering at.

Project No IVPP-EM-Innovation-2024/1-0002 “Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products (BioPhot)” is implemented under the long-term national research programme “Innovation Fund - Long-Term Research Programme”, funded by the Ministry of Economics.

Join us for a webinar on the European Union framework for medical devices and in vitro diagnostics. The requirements for MDR and IVDR have changed significantly in recent years and an early understanding of the regulatory conditions is crucial for innovation projects moving from the research environment to the market.

The webinar will take place on 6 March at 10.00.

The webinar will be moderated by Stefan Bolleininger, CEO of Consultys Medical and Senior Regulatory Advisor, who specialises in supporting early stage innovation projects and helping to navigate the EU regulatory environment when preparing products for CE marking.

Topics covered in the webinar:

• EU regulatory framework for MDR and IVDR, role of notified bodies and CE marking requirements
• Classification of medical devices and IVDs and its role in the choice of regulatory pathway
• Conformity assessment procedures and required documentation
• Harmonised standards, common specifications and guidelines
• Integrating regulatory planning at an early stage

Norise: Zoom platform

Working language: english

Registration: https://luma.com/48rvig6y

Participants are invited to send their questions by 9 February by e-mail: alise.ose@osi.lv

Please note that the webinar will be recorded.

Join us for a webinar on the regulation of software and artificial intelligence in medical technology. MDR, IVDR and the EU Artificial Intelligence Act are placing increasingly detailed requirements on developers of digital health solutions, so a clear understanding of qualifications, classification and compliance is essential early in development.

The webinar will take place on 17 March at 10.00.

The webinar will be moderated by Stefan Bolleininger, CEO of Consultys Medical and Senior Regulatory Affairs Advisor, specialising in early-stage innovation project support and CE marking strategy.

​Topics covered in the webinar:

• How to determine whether software qualifies as a medical device or in vitro diagnostic under the MDR/IVDR
• Classification of software and in vitro diagnostic software and its impact on regulatory requirements
• Conformity assessment requirements, including technical documentation, cybersecurity and clinical or performance evidence
• Standards applicable to software and AI, including IEC 62304, ISO 14971 and IEC 82304-1
• Requirements for artificial intelligence and machine learning systems, including data management, transparency and validation
• The interplay between the EU AI Act and MDR/IVDR and the role of double compliance in practice

Norise: Zoom platform

Working language: english

Registration: https://luma.com/dki2q09z

Participants are invited to send their questions by 13 March by e-mail: inovacija@rsu.lv

Please note that the webinar will be recorded.

BioPhoT invites you to an analytical webinar on the results of the second call's industry expert panel, project performance evaluation and key insights on the path to market for research ideas. The seminar will take place on 24 February at 14.00 at the Science and Innovation Centre of Riga Technical University (RTU), Moon Hall. The panel will include industry experts Tamar Raz and Daniel Carew. Registration for the event is open until 23 February.

The workshop is expected to provide an in-depth look back at the BioPhoT Call 2 Industry Panel, where teams of scientists received direct, market-oriented feedback from international experts.

The aim of the event is to analyse the performance of applications, identify common strengths and weaknesses, and provide practical advice for researchers working on the further development and commercialisation of their ideas.

The workshop is especially aimed at BioPhoT Call 2 applicants, project mentors and researchers planning to participate in future calls, as well as anyone interested in the commercialisation of science and collaboration with industry.

Working language - English. Registration for the event is open until 23 February: https://luma.com/9nio1zds

Seminar programme

13.45-14.00 Arrival and registration of participants

14.00-14.10 Introductory remarks (Osvalds Pugovičs, CEO of BioPhoT)

14.10-15.00 Analysis of results - strengths and weaknesses of reports, lessons learned, recommendations for the next call (Andris Baumanis, BioPhoT mentor, Tamar Raz and Daniel Carew, experts in Indian studies)

15.00-15.30 Q&A session, discussion

About the Industry Panel Experts

Dr Tamar Raz is a life sciences and medical innovation expert with more than 20 years of experience in technology transfer, business development and commercialisation of medical innovations. She has previously led Hadasit - Hadassah Medical Organisation Technology Transfer Company, worked at Tel Aviv University Technology Transfer Company Ramot and founded a biomedical start-up. Dr Raz's day-to-day work includes early-stage biomedical project development, academia-industry partnerships and investor attraction.

Dr Daniel Carew Ph.D. in Nanotechnology and Materials Chemistry; B.Sc. in Applied Science and Engineering; early stage investor and board member in deep tech and defence start-ups. He has over 10 years of experience in investing in breakthrough technologies critical to defence and national security and several of his investments have become “unicorns”. He has helped turn breakthroughs into products and visions for the future.

Please join us for a webinar hosted by Zaz Ventures, a leading strategic fundraising advisor for deep-tech companies. Based on years of experience, Zaz Ventures will offer insights into the 2026 funding landscape. The webinar will not only explain the “rules” - Zaz Ventures will also share practical insights gained from supporting more than 420 successful projects.

The webinar will take place on 25 February at 13.00.

In the webinar you will learn how to:

• Plan and structure the preparation of the EIC application and identify the key “must have” elements;
• Interpret funding trends (2021-2025) in Cleantech, Health and Quantum to better position your project;
• Adopt best practices from real deep-tech projects that have successfully used EIC tools;
• avoiding and correcting common mistakes that lead to failures in the Excellence or Impact criteria.

Norise: Zoom platform

Working language: english

Registration: https://luma.com/y8zixfw1

Participants have until 20 February to send their questions to alise.ose@osi.lv.

Please note that the webinar will be recorded.

On 26 January, the University of Latvia (UL) Academic Centre Science House in Riga will host the Industry Day of the long-term national research programme “BioPhoT”. During the event, you will have the opportunity to get acquainted with current BioPhoT-funded research, innovations and prototypes, their practical applications, as well as to develop new cooperation projects. 

The aim of Industry Day is to strengthen the dialogue between science and industry, promote knowledge transfer and support the development of new research and innovation projects. The event will bring together representatives from the fields of biomedicine, medical technology, pharmaceuticals, photonics, smart materials, technology and engineering systems to foster targeted collaboration between academia, industry and investors.

The language of the Industry Day is English and participation is free of charge. Registration: https://luma.com/i81hmsl0

Programme

The event will be of particular interest to researchers and academics who want to broaden the visibility of their research, better understand industry needs and develop collaborations with companies and investors.

The Industry Day programme will include presentations by foreign and Latvian experts on successful models of cooperation between science and industry, knowledge transfer and research commercialisation, including Hello Tomorrow Partnerships Coordinator Alexander Saivz (Alexander Cywes), Jakub Jasiczak, President of the Polish Association of University Knowledge Transfer Companies (Jakub Jasiczak), professor at the University of Tartu and Alliance4Life Toivo Maimets, president of the consortium, and EIT Health Director of Education Selina Karera (Céline Carrera). 

The programme will be complemented by a panel discussion “What hinders successful cooperation between industry and academia?”, which will be attended by Raivis Bremšmits, State Secretary of the Ministry of Economics, representatives of industry and academia, including Prof. Prof. Māris Turks, representatives of Alternative Plants co-founder and Executive Director Anna Ramata-Stunda, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Chemical and Pharmaceutical Entrepreneurs Association (LACCEA) Vitālijs Skrīvelis and other experts.

In thematic parallel sessions, companies and organisations such as Labrains, Olpha, Kinetics Science Foundation, LMT and the Latvian Federation of Security and Defence Industries will share their technological and research challenges. 

Several BioPhoT platform project teams will present their innovations to a panel of investors and industry representatives for advice on how to further develop their ideas and take them to market. The Biomedicine, Medical Technologies and Pharmaceuticals section will showcase a sink-integrated disinfection device to control antibiotic-resistant micro-organisms in healthcare facilities, a compact and robust laser system for high-precision optical sensors and medical devices, and a next-generation blood collection barrel to improve the safety of bone regeneration procedures. Also on show will be a solution for safe cleaning and reuse of dental drills, an aptamer-based device for faster and more accurate diagnosis of malaria, and a non-invasive sweat analysis platform for the detection of clinically relevant biomarkers, which is particularly important in neonatal health monitoring.

The photonics, smart materials, technology and engineering systems project teams will receive feedback on solutions for sustainability and industrial applications. These include a technology that converts worn tyre rubber into a smart additive for asphalt concrete, robust EMI protection coatings for cyber security systems, and a highly efficient non-contact heating system for metallurgy that reduces energy consumption and CO₂ emissions. Projects will also be presented on the development of next-generation photonics chips, luminescent coatings for early detection of wind turbine blade damage, precision optical sensors for structural monitoring and smart packaging solutions for real-time quality monitoring of fresh seafood.

To strengthen long-term partnerships, the event will see the signing of two MoUs between the BioPhoT platform and leading international innovation and health organisations - with the global deep tech innovation ecosystem Hello Tomorrow and with EIT Health - Europe's largest network of health innovators. “The Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products (BioPhoT) is a long-term interdisciplinary research and innovation platform that brings together leading Latvian research institutions and universities with the aim of facilitating the translation of scientific results into competitive and marketable solutions.

On 19 and 20 January, the BioPhoT platform community participated in an intensive training course on technology commercialisation led by internationally renowned knowledge and technology transfer expert Jeff Skinner (Jeff Skinner). 

The aim of the training was to improve researchers' practical skills in the stages of technology commercialisation: determining the relevance of a technology to market requirements, planning a structured commercialisation pathway, facilitating collaboration with university technology transfer offices (TTOs) and communicating confidently with potential partners and investors.

A course on creating and developing new business ideas based on research, designed and delivered by Jeff Skinner, one of the most experienced technology transfer specialists in Europe, former UK and European Knowledge Transfer Associations (Knowledge Transfer Associations) and active lecturer in academic knowledge transfer professional training throughout Europe. The content of the training programme is based on his extensive practical experience, project portfolio, research results and published data.

During the two-day programme, participants learnt how to engage more actively and purposefully with business partners and investors, and how to become commercialisers of their own technologies. Participants followed a step-by-step path from identifying the potential of a new technology to successful negotiations with investors and partners. The course focused on providing participants with practical, proven methods, models and tips that can be used immediately after the training to avoid common mistakes in the commercialisation process.

Kaija Kurme-Jansone, BioPhoT Platform Project Mentor and training participant, says: “I think Jeff Skinner is an excellent trainer and has a really deep understanding of his field. His willingness to share real examples and personal experiences in the field of technology transfer was particularly valuable and helped me to better understand the practical side of the topic. He listened attentively to participants” questions and situations, providing concrete, actionable advice, especially in terms of communication with the various stakeholders. I believe that this training was particularly relevant for scientists as it helped to shift the thinking towards the needs of the client and consumer - how to reach them, how to speak their language and why this is important from the early phases of a project. This shift in perspective provided a lot of clarity and inspiration for future work."

The training programme is delivered by ASTP - a non-profit membership organisation of university and industry knowledge and technology transfer professionals since 2000. ASTP aims to improve the impact of public research on the economy and society, provide excellent quality training and professional practice support, represent the profession internationally and promote professional networking.

The project "Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products" or "BioPhoT" is implemented under the long-term national research programme "Innovation Fund - Long-term Research Programme" funded by the Ministry of Economics. Project number: IVPP-EM-Innovation-2024/1-0002.

In order to ensure a common understanding of the key stages, terminology and cooperation mechanisms of technology transfer and to strengthen institutional competences in this field, technology transfer and intellectual property experts, researchers and other interested parties are invited to participate in the webinar series “Technology Transfer Fundamentals: From Idea to Innovation”.

On 12 February at 10.00, Dr. sc. ing. will share his knowledge and practical experience in the webinar “Invention Discovery, Valuation and Protection”. Artis Kromanis, European Patent Attorney.

The webinar will cover:

• discovering (fixing) inventions during research and development;
• Initial assessment of the disclosed (fixed) invention - patent search and discretion analysis;
• steps, timelines and life cycle for protecting an invention;
• methods for determining the value of an invention.

Working language: latvian

Norise: Zoom platform

Registration: https://luma.com/7qi5gqw8

Participants have until 9 February to send their questions to alise.ose@osi.lv.

Please note that the webinar will be recorded.

On 26 January 2026, the BioPhoT Industry Day will take place at the Science House of the Academic Centre of the University of Latvia (UL) in Riga, Jelgavas iela 3. It will be an opportunity to meet professionals in the field and to learn about current BioPhoT research, solutions and collaboration opportunities. To participate in the event, industry companies are invited to submit their challenges by 30 December in a special section of the BioPhoT website - Industry Challenge.

“The aim of the BioPhoT Industry Day is to foster closer cooperation between science and industry, strengthening the biomedical, medical technology, pharmaceutical, photonics, smart materials, technologies and engineering systems sectors, creating a favourable environment for the development of new collaborative projects, technological solutions and innovative ideas.

The event will bring together companies, scientific institutions and public sector experts to foster closer collaboration between science and industry, to present current BioPhoT projects and new ideas that may be eligible for BioPhoT funding, and to discuss practical models for collaboration. Thematic working sessions will highlight current challenges and research opportunities in the sectors.

Programme

The event is free for everyone, registration is free: https://luma.com/i81hmsl0

For industry partners, this is an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into BioPhoT's research and innovation portfolio and identify areas of highest added value for collaboration:

“BioPhoT” Industry Challenge is an initiative that invites companies to submit specific industry-related technological challenges requiring specialised research, laboratory infrastructure or high-level scientific expertise. Selected challenges will be presented in thematic working sessions on Industry Day, allowing companies to present their needs directly to researchers and build targeted collaborations. 

Deadline for applications for company participation Industry Challenge Industry Day initiative is 30 December. 

“The BioPhoT community is invited to a special webinar on 12 January at 15.00-16.00 to get to know deep-tech Hello Tomorrow network and explore how each research organisation and commercialisable project can benefit from its science-intensive technology advice and global innovation network.

“Hello Tomorrow is the world's largest deep tech network, connecting researchers, start-ups, corporations, investors and institutions around the world. The network includes research centres, incubators, corporations and investors. The organisation helps to identify future-ready research opportunities, translate scientific advances into market-ready solutions and develop new collaborative or entrepreneurial initiatives.

The webinar will be particularly useful for research group leaders, principal investigators, technology transfer offices, R&D directors, and other innovation professionals in the academic and research sectors who wish to expand their research ambitions, strengthen collaboration with industry or explore commercialisation opportunities.

Please register - https://app.livestorm.co/p/f8be95a1-df85-4ef4-9e60-43ee9f9a01f6?s=6549d492-5fdb-4189-a0df-49a303c09a6f6

“The BioPhoT Round 1 Industry Panel presentations will take place on 2-3 and 9-10 December at the Riga Technical University Science and Innovation Centre (RTU ZIC), Moon Hall, Ķīpsalas iela 6A, Riga.

You can find the date and time of your presentation by the PIP registration number assigned by NZDIS, which was specified in the decision on the assessment of the administrative criteria. Please make a note of this and arrive at the RTU ZIC 5-10 minutes before your specified presentation time.

The individual presentation date and time can no longer be changed. For technical questions related to the Industry Expert Panel and presentations, please contact biophot@rtu.lv.

On 24 November, the first BioPhoT - Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products conference “BioPhoT - Latvia's Innovation Launchpad” will bring together representatives from the biomedical and photonics industry, science policy makers, researchers and entrepreneurs. The aim of the event is to present the first 40 innovation projects funded by the platform, demonstrate their international potential and create a dialogue on the importance of collaboration between science and business.

“The BioPhoT platform aims to create an environment where science and industry work side by side to create new products with high added value. BioPhoT is not just a project - it is a reform that helps Latvia's scientific ideas become products with a real impact on people's lives and the country's economy. We are creating an environment where researchers and entrepreneurs come together to create exportable innovations with sustainable value. The BioPhoT - Latvian Innovation Launchpad conference is one of the first steps towards Latvian innovation becoming part of global technology and healthcare solutions,” says Osvalds Pugovičs, Platform Manager.

The conference will be an opportunity to learn about the first 40 research and innovation projects that have received funding from the BioPhoT platform. These include diagnostics for sepsis, cancer and infections, new sensors and medical devices, fibre-optic solutions, luminescent coatings, infrared spectroscopy technologies, innovative biomaterials and composites, environmental and energy innovations and more. 

The conference will take place at the Science Innovation Centre of Riga Technical University, Moon Hall, from 9:00 to 13.:30. Registration:

• in person: https://luma.com/nekvft5h
• online on Zoom: https://ej.uz/biophotinovacijutramplins2025

The conference will be held in English and is free to attend. 

Program

The event will be opened by the Rector of Riga Technical University Prof. Tālis Juhna, Director of the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis Dace Kārkle, as well as Senior Expert of the Entrepreneurship Competitiveness Department of the Ministry of Economics Egija Aurēlija Liepiņa. Signing of the cooperation agreement between Latvenergo AS and RTU on the implementation of the industrial professor project will be followed by a report by the BioPhoT platform manager O. Pugovičs on the platform's activities so far and future plans.

The special guest of the conference will beDr Scott L. Dax, former Chief Scientific Officer of CerSci Therapeutics, who will talk about the role of innovation Build-to-Buy strategy in biotechnology and the company's successful market entry. 

Latvian companies will also share their experience: success stories from Groglass, one of the world's leading museum glass manufacturers, represented by Head of Research and Development, researcher Guntis Mārciņš, and Cellbox Labs, a start-up developing microfluidics-based solutions for cell biotechnology, will be presented at the conference. It will be represented by its founder and CEO Gatis Mozoļevskis. 

Participants will have the opportunity to listen to a presentation by Raimonds Lapiņš, Director General of the Central Statistical Office (CSO), entitled “CSO - a source of valuable data - opportunities and challenges”, which will show how data can become a resource for the development of new products and services. Normunds Bergs, President of the Latvian Electrical Engineering and Electronics Industry Association (LETERA), will report on “how an eel can talk to a vacuum cleaner”. Vitālijs Skrīvelis, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Chemical and Pharmaceutical Entrepreneurs Association (LACCEA), will stimulate a conversation on the interaction between industry and academia in biomedicine.

The panel discussion “From academia to commercial value - highlights and pitfalls, role of smartly selected support support instruments” will be attended by Normunds Bergs, President of LETERA, Vitālijs Skrīvelis, Chairman of the Board of LAĶĪFA, Egija Aurēlija Liepiņa, expert of the Ministry of Economics, Lauma Muižniece, Director of the Latvian Science Council, Gatis Mozoļevskis, CEO of Cellbox Labs and Osvalds Pugovičs, CEO of BioPhoT. The discussion will be moderated by Andris Anspoks.

About BioPhoT“

“BioPhoT is implemented by the Latvian Institute of Electronics and Computer Science, the Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, the University of Latvia, the Institute of Solid State Physics, the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, the Scientific Institute of Food Safety, Animal Health and Environment ”BIOR“, Riga Stradins University and Riga Technical University under the leadership of the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis. The project ”Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products“ or ”BioPhoT“ is implemented under the long-term national research programme ”Innovation Fund - Long-term Research Programme“ funded by the Ministry of Economics. Platform number: IVPP-EM-Innovation-2024/1-0002.

Research integrity and inclusiveness are central principles in the research and innovation projects funded by the BioPhoT platform. To strengthen the understanding of these principles, to foster reflection and discussion among researchers, and to build a shared understanding of responsible and inclusive research practices in the context of BioPhoT, interested parties are invited to Workshop on “Research Integrity and Inclusion”, on 28 November at 10.00 live on Zoom.

The seminar will be moderated by RSU lecturers and researchers Dr Uldis Vegners, Laura Bitiniece and Diana Kiščenko.

The seminar will be held in two parts:

Part 1 will include two short presentations on integrity and inclusion:

• Laura Bitiniece will address the topic of research integrity, focusing on issues of collaboration and communication.
• Diana Kishchenko will provide insights on inclusion and diversity.

Part 2 - practical workshop:

Participants will be invited to take part in an ethical reflection and discussion game on dilemmas related to research integrity in order to develop their capacity to make critically considered and ethically sound decisions.

Working language: latvian

Registration: https://luma.com/aoa1mxp2

Please note that Part 1 of the seminar will be recorded.

On 24 November, the first BioPhoT conference “BioPhoT - Latvia's Innovation Launchpad” will take place. It will introduce the biomedical and photonics industry, science policy makers and the scientific community to the innovation projects launched in Latvia and the future plans of the platform, offer insights into a number of international success stories in the sector, and stimulate expert discussions on the importance of developing innovation in a broader context.

“BioPhoT is not just a project - it's a reform to help Latvia's scientific ideas become products with a real impact on people's lives and the country's economy. Our goal is to create an environment where researchers and entrepreneurs come together to create innovations with exportability and sustainable value,“says Osvalds Pugovičs, BioPhoT Platform Manager.

The conference will take place on 24 November from 9.00 to 13.30 at the Science and Innovation Centre of Riga Technical University (RTU), Moon Hall. Working language - English.

Conference programme:

The conference is free to attend in person and online, with advance registration:

• in person: https://luma.com/nekvft5h

• online on Zoom: https://ej.uz/biophotinovacijutramplins2025

Representatives of international and Latvian companies, whose scientific ideas have already been turned into commercialised products or who have helped foreign partners to implement their innovations in collaboration with Latvian researchers, will share their success stories at the conference.

The panel discussion “From academia to commercial value - highlights and pitfalls, role of smartly selected support instruments” will highlight the need for a national platform for the development of science and its translation into practice.

Special guests -Scott L. Dax, former  CerSci Therapeutics Scientific Director, will present on how innovation is driven by “Build-to-Buy” a strategy for biotechnology, one of the world's leadingartglass manufacturers, Latvian company Ltd. Groglass, as well as Ltd. Cellbox Labs - a company developing new solutions in cell biotechnology using innovative microfluidics solutions.

At the conference, everyone will have the opportunity to get to know the first 40 research and innovation projects (RIPs) that have been funded by the BioPhoT platform. These include innovative approaches to sepsis, cancer and infection diagnostics, new devices, sensors and diagnostics, fibre optic sensors, fluorescent coatings and infrared spectroscopy, innovative biomaterials and sustainable composites, as well as PIPs related to environmental and energy topics. The best posters in the categories “Biomedicine” and “Photonics” will be awarded.

Participants will have the opportunity to hear the Central Statistical Office (CSO) report “CSO - a source of valuable data - opportunities and challenges”, which will show how data can become a resource for the development of new products and services. The conference will also include the signing of a cooperation agreement between Latvenergo and RTU on the implementation of the Industrial Professor project. Presentations by Normunds Bergs, President of the Latvian Electrical Engineering and Electronics Industry Association, and Vitālijs Skrīvelis, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian Chemical and Pharmaceutical Entrepreneurs Association, are also expected.

On 30 October, the Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis will host the BioPhoT Research and Innovation Project Call 2 Info Day with the Latvian Council of Science and the Ministry of Defence.

The event will take place from 15.00 to 16.30 in the Institute's Large Conference Hall (Aizkraukles iela 21, 4th floor) and will also be available online.

During the Info Day, participants will be introduced to the current conditions of the 2nd call for BioPhoT Research and Innovation projects and the procedure for preparing applications in the National Scientific Activity Information System (NZDIS). Also, a presentation on dual-use technologies - their nature, development and commercialisation opportunities - will be given by Jānis Erno, Senior Expert of the Innovation and Research Policy Division of the Ministry of Defence.

The programme will start with participants' arrival and lunch coffee at 14.30, followed by informative presentations and concluded by an informal discussion with afternoon coffee.

Participants are invited to register for the event in advance by filling in the application form: https://luma.com/9dmypvvb

To ensure a common understanding of the key stages, terminology and cooperation mechanisms of technology transfer, strengthening institutional competences in this field, technology transfer and intellectual property experts, scientists and other interested parties are invited to participate in the webinar series "The Basics of Technology Transfer: From Idea to Innovation", where experts in intellectual property and technology transfer from the BioPhoT platform will share their knowledge and experience.

Planned webinars:  

13 November 2025

The process and role of technology transfer in research organisations

• Technology transfer process from invention discovery to commercialisation (technology identification, evaluation, protection, commercialisation, transaction, maintenance of commitment)
• The role of the TTO in the research organisation, the role of the innovation ecosystem and typical challenges in communicating with researchers and industry

Lecturers - Dr. Anna Stikāne (Head of the Technology Transfer Centre, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis) and David Stöbel (European Space Agency (ESA) Industrial Coordinator for Latvia)

Registration and more information: https://luma.com/sofueghc

12 February 2026

Invention discovery, evaluation and protection

• The stages of the invention (disclosure), initial assessment criteria, risks and potential
• The value of technology and types of protection (patents, know-how, trade secrets) and strategies for choosing them

Lecturer - Dr.Sc.ing. Dr. Artis Kromanis (Intellectual Property Specialist, Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry)

9 April 2026

Business models and market validation

• Market validation fundamentals to assess the potential demand for an invention

Lecturer - Mg.Sc.ing Egils Bēriņš (Commercialisation expert at the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI))

11 June 2026

Types of technology transfer, licensing, divestment and conflicts of interest

• Types of technology transfer and the strategy for choosing them. 
• Licensing and expropriation, their differences, types of contracts, main conditions, and common mistakes. 
• Conflicts of interest and how to mitigate or eliminate their risks.

Lecturer - Mg.iur. Mgr. Artūrs Žukovs (Intellectual Property Specialist, Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia)

Applications are open until 14 October for the 4th call of Venture Catalysts, a free five-week training programme for students, researchers and budding entrepreneurs to support the translation of science-based ideas into real businesses.

The programme is developed and implemented by UniLab in cooperation with RTU Riga Business School, RISEBA and the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), co-funded by the European Union. Venture Catalysts provides a unique platform for future innovators to gain the industry knowledge, tools and contacts they need to succeed in the fast-growing deep tech in the ecosystem.

"We plan to run six 'Venture Catalysts' training cycles between 2024 and 2026. So far, 120 budding entrepreneurs have graduated from the programme. This shows that there are more and more people in Latvia who want to turn their scientific ideas into businesses. Our challenge is to create the environment and support to turn this potential into real, internationally competitive businesses," says LIAA Director Ieva Jāgere.

The programme runs from 21 October to 20 November.

Why join Venture Catalysts?

Participants will learn how to validate and develop their ideas into sustainable business models, gain practical knowledge on innovation strategy, intellectual property management and startup creation, network with experienced mentors, entrepreneurs and potential co-founders, and become part of a supportive community that fosters collaboration and growth.

Application: https://www.liaa.gov.lv/en/event/training-program-venture-catalysts-0

By deep tech Latvia is becoming a dynamic hub for science-based entrepreneurship. "Venture Catalysts provides participants with the opportunity to engage in this transformation and position their ideas for global impact.

About Venture Catalysts
Venture Catalysts is a national training initiative that supports the development of science-based start-ups in Latvia. It is a joint initiative of LIAA, UniLab, RTU Riga Business School and RISEBA, implemented under the project "SME Innovative Entrepreneurship Development", co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund and the European Union. The programme is designed to accelerate the commercialisation of deep tech innovations and foster a more dynamic and globally competitive start-up ecosystem.