Interreg Europe webinar shares international startup good practices – expert from STRIA also participated in the meeting.
On April 8, 2025, a thematic webinar organized by the Interreg Europe Policy Learning Platform took place, presenting international good practices aimed at strengthening the startup ecosystem and increasing investment readiness. Mónika AlízMészáros, STRIA – GRANDIS project expert, participated in the event, primarily interested in sharing knowledge and experience between regions and supporting women-owned businesses.
Three European examples were presented during the webinar from Riga (Latvia), Kaunas (Lithuania) and the Western Region of Ireland.
The city of Riga supports startup ecosystem-building events with special attention to inclusivity: female founders/entrepreneurs, climate technologies and AI-based solutions are among the many supported areas, if they are proven to bring progress and advancement to the local community and city.
In Kaunas, the Startup Awards have been celebrating innovation and start-ups since 2005. More than 15 startups get the opportunity to present themselves every year, including an increasing number of spin-off companies founded by female university researchers. A separate category is awarded to Startup Ecosystem Heroes, meaning those who are particularly supportive of female founders and inclusive community building.
In Ireland, the 12-week acceleration programme called Prep for Seed aims to prepare high-growth startups for negotiations with investors. 66 companies have participated so far. The programmepays special attention to supporting, mentoring and facilitating the internationalisation of female entrepreneurs.
The webinar illustrated how the Interreg Europe Platformcontributes to the sharing of practical knowledge and the development of the startup ecosystem, with a particular focus on strengthening the role of women in technological innovation and entrepreneurship.
