The European Union-funded WE-RISE initiative supports women-led startups developing solutions in the areas of green and digital transformation. The project is coordinated by Fast Track Ventures (Portugal), in partnership with G-Force (Slovakia), Bpifrance (France), Toro Ventures (Spain) and Saulėtekio Tech Park (Lithuania).

WE-RISE offers tailor-made funding, mentoring and visibility in the European innovation ecosystem. The project is providing a total of €1.2 million in funding, helping startups scale up their innovations and strengthen their role in building a sustainable European future.

The first open call for WE-RISE was launched in March 2025 and attracted a huge response, with 267 applications from 43 countries. This clearly demonstrated the high demand for support for female innovators in GreenTech, AgriTech and ClimateTech. Out of all the applications, 20 startups were selected to join the programme. More than 60% of the selected teams are from developing countries, underlining WE-RISE’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable innovation development in Europe.

During the first phase, startups focused on building a solid foundation for growth through training, workshops, and one-on-one consultations. With the help of assigned mentors, they developed Strategic Action Plans (SAPs) that outlined clear steps for business and market development. Each participant received a starting grant of 5,000 euros for networking, partnerships, and business development activities.

“The mentoring was the most valuable part of the program – it helped improve communication and clarify strategic goals,” says Aygen Savaş Alkan, co-founder and CEO of Kybele’s Garden. María Mateo Iborra, co-founder and CEO of IBISA, adds: “The workshop gave my team new perspectives, especially for those who are just starting out on the path of startups or attracting investment.”

After the first phase, 10 startups entered the second phase of the program. Each of them was awarded a grant of 50,000 euros for further development and growth of their solutions. Over the next four months, the startups will implement their SAP plans, participate in targeted mentoring sessions, search for investors and collaborate with key market players.

Many program participants emphasize that WE-RISE helped them strengthen their structure, self-confidence and formulate a clearer long-term strategy. As Seda Köksal Yeğin, Co-Founder and CTO of Ion Membranes, summarized:

“WE-RISE was a turning point for us – our company’s history can be clearly divided into a pre-WE-RISE and post-WE-RISE period. It was a milestone that changed our direction.”

Building on the success of the first call, WE-RISE launched its second call on December 4, 2025. This is another opportunity for female-led deep tech startups to benefit from mentorship, financial support and international collaboration. Applications are open until February 12, 2026, and those interested in learning more are invited to attend an information seminar on January 29.

More information about the invitation: https://www.we-rise.eu/open-call-2

Source: prepared based on information from Saulėtekis Tech Park
https://ssmtp.lt/news/12-mln-euru-moterims-inovatorems-we-rise-skelbia-antraji-kvietima-giliuju-technologiju-startuoliams/

19–21 January: The Director of Klaipėda Science and Technology Park (KSTP), Roma Stubrienė, is on a working visit to Geneva together with representatives of Lithuanian institutions and industry. Yesterday, Ms Stubrienė took part in the high-level event “Strengthening Lithuania–CERN Partnerships for Europe’s High-Tech Future”, organised by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN).

The event focused on reviewing and assessing the directions of Lithuania’s cooperation with CERN, opportunities for industry involvement, the development of scientific research and innovation, as well as the economic benefits generated by major infrastructure projects.

During the event, a memorandum of intent was signed between CERN and the Lithuanian companies Ostara, Ekspla and Sargasas. This memorandum will create the prerequisites for Lithuanian companies to engage in technological development projects related to the Future Circular Collider (FCC), participate in international supply chains, and strengthen cooperation with CERN scientists and engineers.

The participation of the Director of KSTP in the visit was significant not only in terms of presenting the current challenges faced by the academic community, the innovation ecosystem and business–science synergies, but also as an opportunity to engage in meaningful and constructive dialogue aimed at achieving closer and more effective cooperation with CERN in future international high-tech projects.

“Lithuania has already exceeded the scope of an associate member at CERN. Full membership would open the door for Lithuanian businesses to participate in CERN public procurement calls, thereby ensuring broader partnership opportunities. We expect initiatives and continuity of work from decision-making institutions,” said R. Stubrienė.

On the first day of the visit, the delegation visited the EPFL Institute of Technology and the EPFL Innovation Park, one of the most advanced science and technology parks in Europe, operating under the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL). The park brings together science, business and start-ups, creating favourable conditions for innovation in high technology, artificial intelligence, engineering and the life sciences, as well as for international cooperation.

The delegation also visited the Swiss Plasma Center (SPC), a world-class research centre at EPFL (École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne), dedicated to plasma physics and nuclear fusion energy research.

As the visit continues, discussions are being held with representatives of European institutions, the scientific community and business regarding further strategic steps, priority areas and the strengthening of Lithuania’s participation in international science and technology projects. Meetings with CERN representatives are also taking place.

CERN is one of the largest and most advanced scientific organisations in the world, uniting 24 member states and associate partners. The fundamental research conducted and the technologies developed at CERN have a long-term impact on industry, medicine, information technology and innovation development.

Prepared based on sources:

LMT information | lmt.lrv.lt
https://lmt.lrv.lt/lt/naujienos/zenevoje-stiprinama-lietuvos-partneryste-su-cern-ir-salies-isitraukimas-i-aukstuju-technologiju-projektus-fD7/

EIMIN press release | ELTA.lt
https://www.elta.lt/lt/pranesimai-spaudai/eimin-ministras-e-griksas-lankosi-cern-bustineje-zenevoje-stiprinamas-bendradarbiavimas-aukstuju-technologiju-srityje-260924

In the near future, in planning a new call for spin-off funding, startups, spin-off founders, researchers and teams of science-based businesses are invited to participate in the project “Strengthening scientific management and knowledge commercialization capabilities through the implementation of pre-acceleration and mentoring activities” (No. 10-070-P-0001).

By becoming part of the project, you will be able to:

Strengthen business creation and development competencies – from idea validation to team formation and strategic decisions;
Deepen the knowledge necessary for successful business development – intellectual property, financing, meetings with investors;
Receive individual expert support and mentorship tailored to the maturity level of your company;
Join the project community, exchange experiences with other startups, researchers and experts.

Upcoming trainings, in which we invite you to participate:

1. February 5, Kaunas – Fundamentals of Intellectual Property

• IP protection and strategic importance for a spin-off, startup, researcher;
• Patenting, trade secrets, licensing;
• Trademark registration and practical advice.
• Information about the event.

2. March 5, Kaunas – Fundraising and legal aspects

• Practical advice for attracting investments and negotiations;
• Legal decisions that determine the structure of the company and the obligations of the founders;
• Investor’s perspective: what determines the attractiveness of technology, team and IP;
• Financing opportunities for spin-offs and SMEs.

3. April, Vilnius – Idea generation and implementation

• Idea evaluation in the context of science and business;
• Design Thinking, prototyping, value proposition formation;
• Coaching techniques for decision-making.

4. April, Vilnius – Team and leadership training

• Stages of team growth and maturity;
• The role of a manager in a rapidly growing company;
• Coaching tools, managing complex conversations.

Who is the training intended for:

• Researchers and scientists planning to create a spin-off company;
• Startups and teams of start-ups commercializing or planning to commercialize R&D results;
• Spin-offs and SMEs intending to participate in the upcoming spin-off funding call;
• Representatives of higher education institutions (HEIs).

Benefits of participating in the project:

• Practical benefits in all aspects of business development;
• Small groups and individual attention;
• Mentoring and expert consultations;
• Free services provided on the basis of de minimis aid (applies only to companies);
• The number of places is limited – priority is given to those planning to participate in the funding call.

To register for future trainings and to learn more, please register using the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v64HUggfVdjMTwmQDei73fORQf4zFwr4t8yRcJutop0/edit

Klaipėda Science and Technology Park (KSTP) invites small and medium-sized enterprises to take advantage of a unique opportunity to visit international exhibitions in order to expand their business, increase international visibility and establish long-term cooperation relations.

As part of the Interreg project SMEBeyond partner network, KSTP provides support (in the form of compensation) to cover the costs of SMEs visiting international exhibitions. This is a great opportunity for companies that seek to enter foreign markets, find reliable business partners, investors or customers and strengthen their positions in the international environment.

We invite you to visit the following international exhibitions:

E-world energy & water, February 10-12, Essen (Germany)
(for energy, water and sustainable solutions sectors)

Warsaw Pack, April 14-16, Warsaw (Poland)
(for food, packaging and production solutions sectors)

IFAT Worldwide, May 4-7, Munich (Germany)
(for water, waste and environmental technologies)

* Participation in other international exhibitions is also possible by prior arrangement.

Reasons why you should participate?

If your company is looking to increase its international visibility, strengthen its networking, and establish valuable B2B connections, then this is the opportunity for you!

The SMEBeyond project is an Interreg South Baltic region program designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises expand their activities internationally. The project covers sectors such as renewable energy, sustainable urban development, water and waste management, food packaging, advanced technologies, and maritime businesses, and organizes international networking sessions with partners from Denmark, Sweden, Poland, and Lithuania. The project, which will run from 2024 to 2027, aims to strengthen the competitiveness of the South Baltic region’s business ecosystem and promote cross-border cooperation.

What should those who want to take advantage of the opportunity do?

Companies wishing to join the SMEBeyond partner network and participate in the specified events are invited to contact Giedrius Janusauskas, Head of Development of Klaipėda Science and Technology Park, e-mail: giedrius.janusauskas@kmtp.lt .

Upon receiving your request, we will provide detailed information and assess the possibilities for your business to use the support provided by the project in order to increase its visibility in foreign markets.

Follow the news and the most important events of KMTP on the website kmtp.lt and on the social networks LinkedIn and Facebook.

More about the project SMEBeyond.

Germany, Essen

E-world energy & water

The exhibition for the energy, water and sustainable solutions sectors will take place from February 10-12.

E-world energy & water is one of the most important and largest energy and water sector exhibitions in Europe, held annually in Essen (Germany). It is a B2B (business-to-business) platform where decision-makers, experts, suppliers and innovators who are shaping the future of energy and water supply meet.

The main themes for 2026 include energy transition and decarbonization, renewable energy integration, electricity and heat sector interaction and energy efficiency.

A strong focus is placed on digitalization, including smart grids, data analytics, artificial intelligence in energy, energy trading platforms and IT solutions for energy and water supply companies.

Water resource management issues, sustainable water supply system and infrastructure modernization are also examined. An important part of the exhibition is innovations and startups presenting new business models, technologies in the areas of energy storage, electromobility, hydrogen and digital services.

In addition, human capital is emphasized – training of specialists, career opportunities and development of competencies in the energy sector.

E-world energy & water 2026 is a strategic, international B2B event, attracting ~980 exhibitors and ~33,000 visitors from over 70 countries annually. The event is aimed at those who design, implement and manage energy and water systems, and seek to actively participate in Europe’s energy transformation, innovation development and sustainable solutions.

Poland, Warsaw

Warsaw Pack

April 14-16. Exhibition dedicated to the food, packaging and production solutions sectors

This is the largest international exhibition of packaging technologies and equipment in Central and Eastern Europe, dedicated to the packaging industry sector.

The main theme and concept of the exhibition is comprehensive solutions for the packaging industry – from packaging technologies and materials themselves to machines, labels, marking systems, automation and quality control. The event includes not only an exhibition of products and technologies, but also conferences, seminars and discussions, where market innovations, trends and practical solutions are presented, helping companies improve production and packaging processes and adapt to changing demand.

The exhibition covers packaging and labeling machines, packaging materials and films, marking and coding systems, process automation, testing and quality control solutions, as well as innovative design and CAD/CAM solutions. The exhibition also presents solutions for optimizing logistics and warehousing processes, which are important for the entire supply chain from the manufacturer to the end user.

The event provides a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the latest packaging technologies and innovations, to establish business relationships with potential partners and customers, to gain practical knowledge by participating in trainings and conferences, and to analyze market trends and the competitive environment.

Germany, Munich

 IFAT Worldwide

IFAT Munich 2026 will take place from May 4-7 in Munich, Germany.
It is not only an exhibition, but also a knowledge-based business platform where business, politics and the scientific community meet to achieve sustainable solutions for the future.

The main theme of the exhibition is “Solutions for Water, Recycling and the Circular Economy”. The event focuses on real solutions and technologies that help solve global challenges: efficient water supply and treatment, waste recycling, resource conservation and process optimization. The exhibition focuses not only on theories, but also on practical technological solutions that can be seen in action in a real environment with demonstrations and expert discussions.

The exhibition is aimed at many sectors, including water and wastewater management specialists, waste and recycling industry professionals, circular economy solution developers, municipal infrastructure managers, engineering and technology companies, as well as groups of politicians, scientists and business representatives seeking new solutions for climate adaptation and sustainable development of their activities.

The exhibition covers a wide range of topics: water supply and treatment technologies, wastewater management and energy efficiency, digital transformation in the water sector, waste and raw material management technologies, material flow management and circular economy models, air pollution control and innovative waste sorting and recycling systems.

FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN ATTENDING EXHIBITIONS

Companies wishing to join the SMEBeyond partner network and participate in the specified events,
are invited to contact the Development Manager of Klaipėda Science and Technology Park

Giedrius Janusauskas | giedrius.janusauskas@kmtp.lt

“The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of the author(s) and can under no circumstances be taken to reflect the position of the European Union, the Managing Authority or the Joint Secretariat of the Interreg South Baltic Programme 2021-2027.”

With the rapid growth of the information and communication technology (ICT) sector in Europe and the increasing challenges of sustainability, Klaipėda has taken a significant step towards strengthening the technological potential of the region. On January 12, Klaipėda State College, Klaipėda Science and Technology Park and Klaipėda Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts signed a cooperation agreement, officially launching the activities of the Klaipėda ICT Competence Center.

The cooperation agreement was signed within the framework of the implementation of the international Erasmus+ project “Innovation Vocational Excellence and Sustainability in Tech” (INVESTech), the aim of which is to promote innovation in vocational training, strengthen the links between education and the labor market, develop advanced technological competences and integrate sustainability principles into the development of the ICT sector.

According to the signed agreement, the Klaipėda ICT Competence Centre (CoVE) will operate within the structure of Klaipėda State College as part of the Training and Service Centre. The partners, combining their experience, expert knowledge and practical skills, will cooperate in the areas of the start-up, development and management of the centre.

The agreement aims to ensure the development of high-quality ICT competences, promote the application of innovations, adapt the content of training to the needs of the labour market and strengthen long-term cooperation between education, business and the public sector in the region.

The activities of the Klaipėda ICT Competence Center will cover all levels of learning – from vocational training and higher education to adult education. The center’s operating model is based on the Quintuple Helix principle, ensuring a consistent alignment of the interests of industry, education and research institutions, the public sector, civil society and environmental protection.

Special attention will be paid to the implementation of innovative technologies, sustainable solutions, social inclusion and international cooperation.

Klaipėda ICT Competence Center is open to partnerships – vocational education institutions, colleges, universities, ICT and industrial companies, and public sector organizations are invited to cooperate.

Klaipėda Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Crafts
General Director Viktoras Krolis

This project has been co-financed by the European Commission. This communication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

Project number: ERASMUS-EDU-2023-PEX-COVE-101143958

Dear partners, friends, team and community members,

Every great idea begins with curiosity. Every breakthrough starts with collaboration. And every innovation takes shape when bold thinking meets opportunity.

At Klaipėda Science and Technology Park, science, business, and creative minds come together every day. This is where ideas become prototypes, prototypes become solutions, and solutions create real value for society and the market. We are proud to be a space where startups are born, partnerships grow, and innovations are commercialized.

Thank you for being part of this ecosystem — for creating, experimenting, learning from setbacks, and trying again. Together, we are not just responding to the future — we are shaping it.

May curiosity continue to be our engine, knowledge our compass, and collaboration our strongest technology.

With inspiration and respect,
Klaipėda Science and Technology Park

On December 11, an expert consultation organized by representatives of the Research Council of Lithuania (RCL) took place at the Klaipėda Science and Technology Park. The aim of the event was to familiarize regional research institutions, small and medium-sized enterprises, startups and young scientists with the funding and competence-building opportunities provided by the RCL and to encourage more active involvement in R&D and project activities.

Representatives of startups, universities, SMEs and scientists located in the Klaipėda Science and Technology Park participated in the event. The meeting, organized on the principle of consultations, was relevant both for researchers planning the commercialization of ideas and for teams already conducting R&D activities.

RCL Program Coordinator Lukas Valaitis presented in detail the funding opportunities for spin-off R&D projects. The presentation discussed the stages of establishing a spin-off company, requirements for applicants, R&D qualification levels, documentation features, call statistics, and the most common mistakes made by applicants.a

RCL innovation expert Tomas Nakutis presented the pre-acceleration and mentoring programs implemented by the council, aimed at developing the competencies of researchers and companies. It was mentioned that these programs are flexible and adapted not only to spin-offs, but also to SMEs seeking to commercialize R&D results, as well as to MSI researchers and specialists from technology transfer centers. Pre-acceleration activities are focused on both Lithuanian and international markets, in cooperation with foreign partners and participation in international projects. Other incentive measures applied by RCL were highlighted – the opportunity to participate remotely in international training, in-mentoring programs, individual or group expert consultations.

RCL Program Coordinator Dr. Vita Urbanavičienė presented the opportunities provided by the international network EUREKA – application topics, competition specifics and the benefits of networking. EUREKA R&D instruments were discussed in more detail: Network Projects, Globalstars, Clusters, Eurostars and Innowwide.

The event included an active question-and-answer session, during which participants discussed practical aspects of application submission, international development opportunities, and individual consultation needs. The meeting contributed to closer science and business cooperation in the Western Lithuania region and provided participants with valuable practical knowledge about R&D funding and international development instruments.

“Innovation Dialogue’25” brought together participants of the Lithuanian innovation ecosystem for an inspiring get-together, where networking among community members will undoubtedly bring inspiration for new ideas and insights for further quality work in the coming years.

On December 9, the Klaipėda Science and Technology Park (KSTP) team also participated in the event organized by the Technology and Innovation Business Support Association (TIPVA).

Breaking with tradition, the event was moved from the summer season to the winter season – it was a great opportunity to review not only the results of the past year, but also to hopefully assess the expectations and plans for the coming year in an environment filled with Christmas spirit.

The topics of the presentations covered different areas – agriculture and basketball, business problems and assistance needs. It is obvious that the possibilities, impact and problems of applying technological innovations and artificial intelligence are extremely important and relevant everywhere. And the presented opportunities for the development of innovations on a national and international scale are an indicator that encourages even more active action in creating mutual cooperation, mutual connections and dialogues between the three links – business, science and state institutions.

♻️ BePacMan Newsletter #3

The last months have brought momentum to BePacMan — new events, fresh data, and real progress across the South Baltic Region. In this issue, we’re inviting you to our upcoming webinar, sharing updates from partner activities, and continuing our spotlight on smart cardboard solutions. Change is happening — and together we’re driving it forward.

 Good practices for reusable paper packaging in the South Baltic Region

📢 Join Our Next Webinar!

We’re excited to invite you to BePacMan Webinar #2, where partners from Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden, and Germany will share hands-on experiences with reusable paper-based packaging in logistics and e-commerce.
When: 9 December 2025, 11:00–13:00 (UTC+1)

What to expect:

Real examples of reusable paper packaging from across the region

Key success factors for companies planning reusable systems

Barriers, enablers, and practical tips from ongoing initiatives

Opportunities for collaboration and future pilots

Cardboard Case Files – Real-Life Good Practices
In this edition, we’re highlighting two inspiring examples of how companies across Europe are rethinking paper and cardboard to reduce waste and strengthen circular packaging systems. From smart upcycling to pioneering material innovation, these cases show what’s possible when creativity meets sustainability.

KAROPACK – Upcycling Cardboard into Smart Packaging Material

Instead of discarding used cardboard boxes, KAROPACK transforms them into high-quality padding and filling material using its “Karocycler” machines. This approach keeps cardboard in circulation longer and replaces plastic-based foams and bubble wrap with fibre-based alternatives.

Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e_zp5Smp

Stay tuned for more updates from the BePacMan project!
Follow us on LinkedIn to stay connected and see how we’re
driving circular change across the South Baltic region. ♻️🌍

Klaipeda Science and Technology Park (KSTP), as a partner of the BePacMan project, invites you to join this webinar on good practices for reusable paper packaging in the South Baltic Region. The event is especially valuable for organisations interested in reducing packaging waste, improving circularity, and exploring practical solutions for reusable paper-based packaging.

Join us for the BePacMan Webinar #2: Good practices for reusable paper packaging in the South Baltic Region!

As online commerce continues to grow across the EU, so does the challenge of increasing packaging waste. Reusable paper-based packaging offers an important opportunity for more circular and sustainable logistics.

On 9 December 2025 (11:00–13:00), partners from Denmark, Lithuania, Poland, Sweden and Germany will share practical insights and best practices for implementing reusable paper packaging in logistics and e-commerce.

Who should attend:

• Logistics and delivery companies
• E-commerce and retail businesses
• Packaging, circular economy and sustainability experts
• Public authorities and organisations in the South Baltic Region

What you will learn:

• Practical experiences from partner countries introducing reusable paper packaging
• Key success factors for companies planning to use reusable paper-based solutions
• Best practices and integration points for reuse across the South Baltic Region
• How to overcome barriers and make use of enablers for reusable packaging systems
• Opportunities for future pilots and long-term cross-border cooperation

Registration: via the QR code on the flyer or through the link below:

https://lnkd.in/dZxXBaKe

Let’s work together toward circular and reusable packaging systems for the South Baltic Region.

BePacMan is co-funded by the Interreg South Baltic Programme and brings together stakeholders from academia, business, and public sectors to improve circularity in paper packaging across borders.