The GAEA Challenge landed in Latvia, continuing its European journey of innovation and sustainability. The competition took place online via MS Teams, with thirty-four participants divided into thirteen teams.
Each team pitched bold solutions, aiming to secure a spot in the Interregional Innovation Competition. Creativity, feasibility, and impact were at the center of the challenge.
Event Highlights
- Dynamic pitching session showcasing regional talent
- Focus on sustainable entrepreneurship and innovative technologies
- Opportunity to join the next phase of the GAEA Challenge
34 participants – 13 teams
Meet the Jury
The competition featured a panel of distinguished experts:
- Angelos Vasileiou – Tech Lead, Mantis Beyond Innovation
- Haris Stamatopoulos – Innovation and Strategic Collaboration Lead, Uppsala University; Director, Sustainability InnoCenter
- Ronalds Strauhs – Associate Partner, CIVITTA
The jury evaluated pitches based on innovation, feasibility, and potential impact.
Winning Teams
The top three teams in Latvia were:
| 1st | Tandeems Recycle |
| 2nd | Mycelium Acoustic Panels |
| 3rd | Sensifies |
Latvia’s Innovation Ecosystem
Latvia is increasingly recognized as a growing hub for green technology and start-ups. The country’s universities, incubators, and research centers are developing projects in:
- Renewable energy
- Circular economy solutions
- Smart environmental technologies
Tip: Competitions like GAEA Challenge connect Latvian innovators with European networks, opening doors for collaboration and scaling solutions internationally.
Next Steps
The teams advance to Phase 2 – the Interregional Innovation Competition, where they will join other top projects from across Europe.
- Goal: Encourage cross-border collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Outcome: Refined solutions with wider impact potential
Why the GAEA Challenge Matters
The GAEA Challenge is more than a competition. It is a platform for European innovators to address pressing challenges in natural resource management and sustainable technologies. By connecting local talent with a European network, it helps create solutions that matter locally and continent-wide.
