Deep Tech Atelier 2026 to Drive Innovation in Riga
Riga, Latvia, is set to host the eighth edition of Deep Tech Atelier, Northern Europe’s largest conference on data-intensive entrepreneurship, on May 14-15, 2026. The event will bring together over 2,000 scientists, technology experts, entrepreneurs, investors, and public sector representatives to bolster the deep tech startup ecosystem and foster new collaborations.
Focus on Medical and Defense Technologies
This year’s conference will particularly focus on medical and defense technologies. Within the medical sector, discussions will center on improving access to healthcare, enhancing quality of life, and translating innovative ideas into practical solutions. The defense-focused sessions will concentrate on strengthening security through advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous systems, with an emphasis on the potential for these technologies to be adapted for civilian applications and create new market opportunities.
A Platform for Science and Entrepreneurship
According to Ieva Jāgere, Director of the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA), “Deep Tech Atelier is a place where science meets entrepreneurship and ideas are transformed into real, exportable solutions.” Latvia aims to become a leading deep tech hub in Northern Europe, and the conference is a crucial platform for connecting local talent with international capital, partners, and markets.
Startup Pitch Competition
The Deep Tech Atelier Startup Pitch Competition will showcase high-potential startups. Applications are open until April 6, 2026, with 30 selected teams competing for a place in the finals. The top 10 finalists will present their ventures to an international jury of investors and industry experts.
Supporting Latvia’s Future Economy
Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis emphasizes that “knowledge-intensive technologies are one of the cornerstones of Latvia’s future economy.” He notes that Deep Tech Atelier demonstrates the emergence of globally competitive solutions within Latvia, spanning medical, defense, artificial intelligence, and robotics sectors. The goal is to create an environment where these ideas can scale rapidly, attract investment, and become export-ready businesses.
Event Details
Deep Tech Atelier 2026 will feature over 100 international speakers across three stages – Deep Tech, Deep Frontier, and Growth Stage – alongside an innovation EXPO, investor sessions, and networking opportunities. The event is organized by LIAA and attracted over 2,000 participants from 62 countries in 2025.
More information and registration details are available at https://deeptechatelier.com/.
The conference is supported by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) projects “Support for Technology Transfer System Improvement” and “Development of Innovative Entrepreneurship for SMEs,” as well as co-financing from the European Union Recovery and Resilience Facility (NextGenerationEU).