A €10,000 grant will be awarded to the author of the most promising business idea at Icebreakers’26, a business opportunity festival scheduled for March 5th at the University of Latvia’s (UL) House of Science in Torņakalns.
Fostering Entrepreneurial Growth
Icebreakers’26 aims to increase involvement in entrepreneurship among students and other stakeholders through inspiration, knowledge, and practical tools. The festival is designed to connect academia, the business sector, and public institutions, creating opportunities for collaboration and real-world application of ideas.
According to Enno Ence, Vice-Rector for Development at the University of Latvia, the festival’s goal extends beyond idea generation. “Our goal is not only to generate new ideas and knowledge, but to help to turn them into practical solutions that benefit society,” he stated. He further explained that innovation requires a long-term impact and the ability to attract investors and industry partners.
Festival Components
The festival program will include panel discussions with industry leaders and experts, focusing on technology, innovation, and business development. Students will have opportunities to learn team-building skills and access resources through cooperation partners. Entrepreneurs will also gain a platform to discover new talent and ideas.
This year’s festival will specifically focus on information and communication technologies. Attendees can explore companies, organizations, and solutions in an exhibition area, participate in workshops and masterclasses, and utilize a networking point to form new partnerships. Guided tours of UL’s OpenLab will also be available.
Participation in both the festival and the business idea competition is free of charge, but requires prior registration. More information can be found at https://icebreakers.lu.lv/.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where will Icebreakers’26 take place?
Icebreakers’26 will take place on March 5th at the University of Latvia’s House of Science in Torņakalns.
What is the main goal of the festival?
The main goal of Icebreakers’26 is to foster the involvement of students and other stakeholders in entrepreneurship with the help of inspiration, knowledge, and practical tools.
What is the prize for the business idea competition?
The author of the most promising business idea will receive a €10,000 grant to support the development of their entrepreneurial venture.
Will initiatives like Icebreakers’26 prove effective in translating innovative ideas into viable businesses and contributing to economic development?
