12 startup events not to miss in Latvia in 2026 / Article

For startup founders and those involved in the tech ecosystem, Latvia is positioning itself as a key hub for innovation and networking in 2026. Labs of Latvia has compiled a calendar of twelve events, ranging from informal meetups to large-scale conferences, designed to foster collaboration and growth within the region’s burgeoning startup community.

A Diverse Calendar of Events

Networking and Community Building

The year begins with recurring Open Coffee Club Riga meetups, starting February 12, 2026, at Startup House in Riga. These informal gatherings prioritize peer-to-peer connections and open conversation, welcoming entrepreneurs, professionals, and students alike. Throughout the year, several events emphasize community, including the Startup BBQ at Startup House Riga in August and the relaxed Summer UnRest networking event organized by TechChill, taking place on Liepāja beach in August.

Major Conferences and Competitions

March 25-27, 2026, will see the 15th annual TechChill conference held at Hanzas Perons in Riga. This flagship event for the Baltics will feature panels, networking opportunities, and a pitch competition with a record €1 million prize pool. April 1-2, 2026, UN:BLOCK will focus on Web3, blockchain, and decentralized technologies at Hanzas Perons, attracting innovators and investors from across Europe. Riga will also host Baltic Fintech Days on May 12-13, 2026, at Hanzas Perons, uniting fintech ecosystems across the three Baltic states.

Specialized Tech and Innovation

Deep Tech Atelier, the largest deep-tech conference in the Baltics, will be held May 14-15, 2026, at Fantadroms in Riga, focusing on AI, MedTech, and other advanced technologies. The “Idea Cup” business idea competition, organized by LIAA, will take place August 1, 2026, providing a platform for early-stage ideas and entrepreneurial growth. Riga Comm, the only annual business technology fair and conference in the Baltics, will be held October 8-9, 2026, at the Kipsala International Exhibition Centre.

Did You Know? The TechChill Founders Battle pitch competition will award a total of €1 million in prizes in 2026, marking the largest prize pool in the event’s history.

Early-Stage Support and Broader Perspectives

StartSchool Demo Day in June 2026, at Startup House in Riga, will showcase the work of first-time founders completing the StartSchool education program. Festival LAMPA, held July 10-11, 2026, at Cēsis Castle Park, offers a broader perspective for startups, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, and creatives. The Latvian Startup Awards, taking place in December 2026 at Spikeri Concert Hall in Riga, will celebrate achievements within the Latvian startup ecosystem.

Expert Insight: The diverse range of events highlights a strategic effort to cultivate a comprehensive startup ecosystem in Latvia, catering to founders at all stages – from initial idea development to scaling and international expansion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of events are included in the 2026 calendar?

The calendar includes a variety of events, from informal networking meetups like Open Coffee Club Riga to large-scale conferences such as TechChill and UN:BLOCK, as well as competitions and festivals.

Where are most of these events located?

The majority of the events are scheduled to take place in Riga, Latvia, with a few exceptions like Festival LAMPA in Cēsis and Summer UnRest in Liepāja.

Are any of these events focused on specific technologies?

Yes, several events focus on specific technologies, including UN:BLOCK (Web3, blockchain), Baltic Fintech Days (fintech), and Deep Tech Atelier (AI, MedTech, and other advanced technologies).

As these events approach, it will be important for founders to stay informed about program updates and exact dates, as some details are still to be announced. How might this concentrated series of events impact the growth and visibility of Latvian startups on the international stage?