Stories, lessons and observations from years of mentoring, investing and building companies across the Nordic and Baltic startup ecosystem.
Engaged Investments is a Central European investor conference in Prague. This time I was on stage with Sparkly HR, talking about what everyone knows but nobody does systematically — how to actually evaluate a startup's team. A story about learning speed, AI's impact on the role of the human, and why valuing a person isn't about nice words but about the right person in the right role.
Read moreTen years of fierce competition, one mature agreement and a new beginning. Reflections from Riga.comm, where the Mailbow and Smaily teams stood together in front of a camera for the first time — and why we should have joined forces years earlier instead of out-competing each other on a small market.
Read moreWhen discussing Europe's emerging startup hubs, Malta is often overlooked—but that is rapidly changing. With its strategic location, investor-friendly regulations, and a thriving ecosystem, Malta is positioning itself as a prime destination for startups and investors alike. And one of the best ways to experience the region's energy is through the EU-Startups Summit…
Read moreSome events make an impression; others change the course of your life. For me, Skinnovation was the latter. It wasn't just another startup conference—it was the moment I made one of the most radical decisions of my career back in 2019. I decided to sell all my companies…
Read moreFor ambitious startups in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and beyond, few accelerators match the impact, structure, and support provided by Econic Accelerator. Designed to take early-stage ventures from validation to market entry, Econic is not just another startup program—it's a launchpad for serious entrepreneurs…
Read moreHow to discover hidden talent using simple HD profilings and why doesn't everyone do it? Talent identification remains a persistent challenge in corporate environments. Organizations often rely on resumes, performance reviews, and psychometric assessments to evaluate employee capabilities. However, these methods frequently fail to recognize unique strengths…
Read moreIn 2017, I first set foot in TechChill, an intimate yet vibrant startup conference nestled in Riga, Latvia. At that time, I was still deeply immersed in the trenches of entrepreneurship, refining my craft, scaling my ventures, and navigating the ever-changing landscape of building and exiting businesses…
Read moreIn 2019, I made a decision that changed the trajectory of my career as an entrepreneur and investor. That year, at sTARTUp Day, I realized it was time to sell my businesses and pivot towards a new chapter—one focused on investing, fostering collaboration, and empowering the next generation of startup founders…
Read moreFor years, I had heard about Slush—the world-renowned startup event in Helsinki, Finland. Known for its scale, energy, and impact, it had been on my radar, yet I had never taken the step to experience it firsthand. That changed in 2024 when my trusted partners at RedBrick Accelerator provided me with the opportunity to join…
Read moreHey there, this is Emily from Red Brick. Welcome to our "Mentor Stories" series, where we celebrate and showcase our mentors who are a big part of how we support startups in Red Brick Accelerator. Mikk Orglaan is an accomplished startup mentor and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in the tech industry…
Read moreNavigating the Changing Landscape of Startup Investments: Insights from Conferences, Mentorship, and a Shifting Economy. The startup ecosystem has always been dynamic, but the past year has proven that agility, adaptability, and deep insights are more essential than ever. With the economic climate shifting and funding becoming more challenging…
Read moreWhat happened in 2022. Techchill happened again – life changing as ever. Over the years I've fallen in love with the structure of Techchill. Small venue, over these few days people start recognizing faces and they remember talks in coffee cue or at Karma Ventures sponsored matchmaking area table…
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