Welcome to Baltic EdTech Week!

Baltic EdTech Week is the regional event focused on the cutting-edge trends reshaping education. It brings together top practitioners, investors, and EdTech leaders from around the globe for thought-provoking conversations on pushing the boundaries of teaching and learning.

Any questions? Contact Goda at goda.sivicke@civitta.com!

Thank you for joining the event!

DAY 1 | 19 March

09:30 - 10:00 Doors open

10:00 - 10:10 Welcome to the Baltic EdTech Week

Speakers: Marius Stasiukaitis (Vice-Minister, Ministry of the Economy and Innovation), Jonas Petkevičius (Vice-Minister, Ministry of Education, Science and Sport)

10:10 - 10:30  Catalysts of Change: EdTech startups, investment trends, and future of education in the Baltic States

Speaker: Jurga Mečinskienė (Civitta)

This session will explore how EdTech startups are driving innovation in the Baltic States, reshaping the education landscape through technology. What are the investment trends fueling the sector; key players leading the transformation and emerging opportunities for growth. From AI-driven learning solutions to digital classrooms, we will discuss the future of EdTech in the region and how collaboration between startups, investors and policymakers can accelerate progress.

10:30 - 10:55   Irreplaceable human: the future of human-machine collaboration

Speaker: Robert Szabó (Learnship)

In this talk, Robert will address the fundamental restrictions facing contemporary AI solutions, as well as where these solutions can add significant value in education and training. He will show how human-machine collaboration is the future of products that support both performance improvement and retention of knowledge.

10:55 - 11:15    Keynote session: AI Sandbox – Navigating the EU AI Act for EdTech Innovations

Speaker: Vilius Šlapelis (Innovation Agency Lithuania)

This keynote will explore the impact of the EU AI Act on EdTech innovation, focusing on regulatory challenges and opportunities. Attendees will gain insights into how the AI Sandbox can support EdTech startups, educational institutions, and policymakers in navigating compliance while fostering innovation. The session will provide practical guidance on leveraging AI responsibly in education.

11:15 - 12:00    Panel discussion: AI in EdTech 

Moderator: Alistair Starling (European Diplomats). Speakers: Clara Hawking (Kompass Education), Dr. Dalius Misiūnas (ISM University of Management and Economics) , Kristina Jonkuvienė (EditAI)

This panel discussion will explore the role of AI in EdTech, examining how artificial intelligence is transforming teaching, learning, and educational management. Experts will discuss AI-driven personalization, adaptive learning platforms, ethical considerations, and the future of AI-powered education.

12:45 - 14:00  Lunch break (self-arranged)

12:00 - 12:45    Startup panel: From product to business: how to monetize EdTech solutions

Moderator: Viktoras Jucikas (Iron Wolf Capital). Speakers: Lukas Kaminskis (Turing College, Lithuania), Kelly Lilles (ALPA Kids, Estonia), Voldemars Bredikis (Orbit8, Latvia)

As the education sector continues to embrace digital transformation, the EdTech market is seeing an exponential growth of innovative products and platforms. This panel will bring together thought leaders and entrepreneurs from the sector to discuss how to unlock the success and transform your product to a profitable business: achieving the product-market fit, generating business leads and opportunities, selecting the right business model and effective scaling strategy. Our experts will share their insights and real-world experiences to help you navigate the journey from the concept to commercial success.

14:00 - 14:15  Keynote: Public-private partnership through triple helix

Speaker: Niko Lindholm (Helsinki Education Hub)

This session explores the Triple Helix model, focusing on how private and public sector collaboration drives innovation in the education sector with a real case example from Helsinki, Finland. 

14:15- 15:30  Panel discussion: Public-private partnership: real case scenarios

Moderator: Niko Lindholm (Helsinki Education Hub). Speakers: Indrė Šuolienė (EdTech Center), Liis Siiroja (EdTech Estonia), Donatas Vasiliauskas (Jotvingių gymnasium)

In this session, we will discuss the reality of bringing solutions to the classrooms and how to make the collaborations more effective. Together with EdTech ecosystem representatives, we will discuss the challenges that are often faced along the way and offer approaches that can make this collaboration smoother on user, client, and service provider side. 

14:00 - 16:00  Side session: Startup and investor matchmaking 

Register here: bit.ly/43azICe

This side session offers a unique opportunity for EdTech startups and investors to connect, collaborate, and explore potential partnerships. Designed as a dynamic matchmaking event, it will facilitate meaningful conversations, showcase innovative solutions, and provide insights into investment trends in the education sector. Join us to network and unlock new growth opportunities.


DAY 2 | 20 March

09:30 - 10:00 Doors open

15:30 - 18:00   Networking

10:00 - 10:20    Keynote:  Embracing EdTech to navigate a rapidly changing world 

Speaker: Aape Pohjavirta (Funzi)

The keynote addresses three themes that have a momentous impact on today's education system and it highlights how clever use of technology is a necessity in creating sustainable solutions.

10:20 - 11:00   Investor panel: Hottest trends in EdTech  

Moderator: Antti Korhonen. Speakers: Laura Koponen (Infinit Capital), Kasparas Jurgelionis (Iron Wolf Capital), David Guérin (Brighteye Ventures)

This investor panel will explore the key trends, scalability challenges, and investment opportunities shaping the future of EdTech. Industry experts will discuss what’s next for this fast-evolving sector and when we might see the first EdTech unicorn? 

11:00 - 11:20    Navigating EdTech sales to governments

Speaker: Alistair Starling (European Diplomats)

As Founder of European Diplomats OÜ and a former UK diplomat, he will share actionable strategies for selling educational products and services to ministries of education worldwide. This keynote highlights how to navigate complex procurement systems, build trust with public-sector stakeholders, and create compelling value propositions tailored to government priorities.

Through case studies, including successfully introducing Cambridge English Qualifications to Estonia's Ministry of Education, he’ll reveal how to align commercial goals with public policy needs. Attendees will gain practical insights to craft winning proposals, close deals, and sustain impactful government partnerships in the education sector.

11:20 - 12:00   Panel discussion: EdTech in the classroom – educator’s perspective

Moderator: Šarūnas Dignaitis (EdTech Lithuania). Speakers: Mantas Vičius (BBright), Airina Volungevičienė (EDEN Digital Learning Europe, Vytautas Magnus University), Elchin Jafarov (Datorium AI)

In this panel discussion, we will explore the realities of bringing edtech solutions to the classrooms: what are the key barriers to digitisation, how can edtech startups better meet the needs of educators and what the future of education could look like. 

12:00 - 14:00   Lunch break (self-arranged)

14:00 - 16:00   Edu Challenger Demo Day 

Edu Challenger Demo Day showcases 13 of the most innovative and promising Edu Challenger accelerator startups as they pitch their solutions to investors, educators, and industry leaders. This dynamic event highlights cutting-edge technologies transforming education, offering startups a platform to gain visibility, secure partnerships, and attract investment. Join us to discover the future of EdTech!

16:00 - 18:00   Networking

Meet the Speakers

  • Alistair Starling

    Founder of European Diplomats

    Former UK diplomat turned business development powerhouse, Alistair Starling blends 20 years of private-sector expertise with a decade in government roles. Fluent in four languages, he’s a master at driving innovation and growth across industries—from recruitment to internet design to global education powerhouses like Cambridge. A dynamic speaker and serial entrepreneur, Alistair brings a unique blend of diplomacy, design, and commercial acumen to the EdTech stage.

  • Robert Szabó

    Commercial product manager at Learnship

    As the driving force behind Learnship Sprint, Robert Szabó merges education and technology to revolutionize B2B language training. With over 15 years of experience in the EdTech space, he's an award-winning product manager, writer, and speaker who has shaped the industry through innovative solutions and thought leadership. A frequent presenter at global conferences and a respected industry judge, Robert’s passion lies in skill development and advancing digital education on a global scale.

  • Jurga Mečinskienė

    Associate partner at Civitta

    Jurga is the creative force behind Civitta's startup ecosystem team. In her role, she designs and brings to life entrepreneurship and startup support programs. She leads Lithuania's first EdTech accelerator, Edu Challenger, drives Civitta's involvement with the European space accelerator, Cassini Business Accelerator. Jurga also advises multiple international accelerators in emerging markets and spearheads local entrepreneurship support initiatives.

  • Clara Hawking

    Co-founder of Kompass Education

    Clara Hawking is a globally recognized leader in AI governance and ethics, specializing in the intersection of artificial intelligence, education, and regulation. As Co-Founder and Executive Director of Kompass Education, she advises governments, schools, and EdTech companies on managing risk and responsible AI deployment.

  • Niko Lindholm

    EdTech Innovation Lead at Helsinki Education Hub

    Pioneer in designing and implementing new models for Edtech development on system level: Built five Edtech innovation programs in four different countries. Currently leading the innovation program (Edtech Incubator) at Helsinki Education Hub. The innovation program is designed to: transfer Learning Science, from Faculty of Educational Sciences at University of Helsinki, to Edtech entrepreneurs, support Edtech entrepreneurs to build a pedagogically solid solution, test and validate the solution in Helsinki Edtech Testbed - and to internationalize after the program.

  • Lukas Kaminskis

    CEO and Co-founder of Turing College

    Lukas Kaminskis is the CEO & Co-Founder of Turing College. Turing College is an AI-driven online tech school backed by Ycombinator. Turing College is one of the biggest edtech startups in the Baltics, and in 2024, Sifted ranked Turing as the #17 fastest-growing startup in Europe

  • Kristina Jonkuvienė

    Co-founder of EditAI

    Kristina is a co-founder of EditAI, an AI-powered assistant that helps teachers create engaging, problem-based learning content. EditAI was awarded AI Solution of the Year in the Education Sector and was nominated for other prestigious educational awards such as BETT and GESA. Kristina is also a member of Women in AI, a nonprofit do-tank working towards inclusive AI that benefits global society. She aims to leverage technology to create impactful educational solutions and is committed to promoting responsible AI adoption in classrooms. goes here

  • Dr. Dalius Misiūnas

    President of ISM University of Management and Economics

    Dr. Misiūnas leadership the ISM University is dedicated to being a one step ahead, recognized for innovation, focus on future competences, and thought leadership.

  • Kelly Lilles

    Co-founder and CEO of ALPA Kids

    Kelly Lilles is the Co-founder and CEO of ALPA Kids, an Estonian edtech startup specializing in early childhood education with the service used by millions of children globally. As a dedicated advocate for digital learning, she is a Founding Member of EdTech Estonia and serves as Estonia’s National Ambassador regarding the Digital Education Action Plan. In addition to her leadership in the edtech sector, Kelly is a knowledge transfer doctoral student and junior researcher with a specialization in linguistics, contributing to the advancement of language education and digital pedagogy.

  • Aape Pohjavirta

    Founder of Funzi

    Aape Pohjavirta is a seasoned entrepreneur and passionate coach, dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through knowledge and innovation. His most recent effort was ideating and founding Funzi, a global mobile learning service that gives mobile users everywhere access to engaging, practical learning tools to develop their skills and build a better tomorrow.  Aape is a recognized global leader with a visionary approach to how science, technology, and innovation can drive progress toward the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In his career Aape has held entrepreneurial and leadership roles in digital innovation since 1988 and in mobile technology since 1998. He’s an expert on education, business and product development, and technology strategies. Aape is an Apple Achiever, an international patent inventor and a published author.

    Life motto: LiG - Life is Great!


  • Airina Volungevičienė

    Co-founder and MB member at EDEN Digital Learning Europe

    Director of Institute for Study Innovations at Vytautas Magnus University

    Established quality online learning and teaching at VMU in 2008, co-founded Lithuanian distance and e-learning association in 2010, was the President of EDEN in the UK, moved, co-founded and developed EDEN in Estonia since 2019, works with the European Commission to shape and implement Digital Education policy, was responsible for Knowledge building activities in the European Digital Education Hub. The mission – to link EdTech and Education for the interest of quality-labelled digital learning and teaching, with digital well-being of all.

  • Liis Siiroja

    CEO and board-member of EdTech Estonia and also a co-founder and CEO of KideoCall

    Liis Siiroja is a CEO and board-member of EdTech Estonia and also a co-founder and CEO of KideoCall, a virtual language learning platform for children. Liis has a strong background in communications, but has always been attracted by education. Prior to founding KideoCall, she served as the communications manager of the educational program Tagasi Kooli (Back to School) and helped to introduce the world of work to students.

  • Vilius Šlapelis

    AI in EdTech R&D and Innovation Coordinator at the Innovation Agency Lithuania

    As the AI R&D and Innovation Coordinator at Innovation Agency Lithuania, I focus on advancing AI integration within the EdTech sector, working with organizations to develop innovative educational solutions that drive growth and competitiveness. Previously, at BitDegree, I contributed to the creation of gamified learning platforms and educational content focused on Web3, enhancing learner engagement and success. With an academic background that includes a dissertation on the gamification features of Duolingo, I am passionate about shaping the future of education through the application of AI, delivering impactful and scalable solutions for modern learners.

  • Viktoras Jucikas

    General Partner at Iron Wolf Capital

    General Partner at Iron Wolf Capital, helping ambitious founders from the Baltics grow their businesses. 



    Partner at Architus, growing engineering talent in the Baltics. Founder at Genus AI, a Growth Marketing Platform, used by Lulus, Prose and The Farmer’s Dog, and Founder at YPlan, an award- winning event ticketing marketplace backed by Ashton Kutcher, Pharrell Williams and General Catalyst

    Executive Director at Goldman Sachs in London focusing on quantitative methods of exotic derivative pricing and risk management

    Masters degree in AI, ML and Robotics from Jacobs University Bremen.

  • Indrė Šuolienė

    CEO of EdTech Center

    Indrė Šuolienė represents the EdTech Center, established within the National Agency for Education, where she leads the search for innovative and value-driven educational solutions for schools. The Center conducts pilot testing of these solutions through collaboration with school communities, researchers, and business sector innovators. Additionally, it focuses on enhancing teachers' digital competencies and advancing the development of digital infrastructure to support modern education.

  • Mantas Vičius

    Co-founder and CEO of BBright

    Mantas Vičius is the visionary co-founder and CEO of BBright, a leading EdTech company revolutionizing personalized education in Lithuania. As a strategic board member of EdTech Lithuania and a passionate economics and entrepreneurship teacher, he is at the forefront of shaping the future of education and empowering the next generation of leaders.

  • Šarūnas Dignaitis

    Educator, technology enthusiast, Radio show host and Board member at EdTech Lithuania

    Experienced in a broad educational field: from an NGO sector, to an EdTech startup, to training for teachers: building bridges from futuristic EdTech startup ideas to reality on ground with schools and teachers.

  • Elchin Jafarov

    Founder of Datorium AI

    Elchin is the founder of Datorium AI, a platform for educators that generates teaching materials aligned with local standards. With a strong EdTech background, he’s developed leading tech solutions for education, used by thousands of students and hundreds of schools. He collaborates with European Commission initiatives on ethical and explainable AI and represents EdTech in AI legislation workgroups. Elchin has received the Platinum Mouse 2024 award for his contributions to educational technology.

  • Laura Kopponen

    Vice Chair Board of Directors at Infinit Capital Ltd

    As a CEO for 8 years Laura grew Spinverse-consulting company from 30-people to the biggest Innovation Funding Consultancy in the Nordics with over 100 professional and successfully managed an exit to a Private Equity investor in 2023.  Today, Laura is an Edtech investor and board professional through her family office Infinit Capital, which has invested in half a dozen educational companies. Her personal interest is in changing world-wide education from primary schools to longer work-life. Her mission in life is to give every child in the world the opportunity to read with a special focus for near feature is on Africa. Laura’s has strong knowledge of most of the emerging technologies and industries from her consulting work for the past 16 years with a special focus on cognitive technology from which she did her Doctoral thesis at Aalto University.

  • David Guerin

    Partner at Brighteye Ventures

    David is Partner at Brighteye and he comes from an operational and consultancy background. Hepreviously ran the marketing efforts at a leading healthcare startup in Mexico, and worked as a management consultant in LATAM.

  • Kasparas Jurgelionis

    Managing partner at Iron Wolf Capital
    Started technology career in 2001 at mediaWays.uk, internet startup sold for 1,6bn EUR to Telefonica. Since 2012 Kasparas has focused on building investment and asset management platforms, including roles as Vice -Chairman and head of strategy of a USD 1,0bn+ private portfolio of investments at Achema Group. In 2018 co-founded Iron Wolf Capital, a leading AI and deeptech VC in the Baltic region. He currently serves as Chairman of Lithuanian private equity and venture capital association. 


  • Donatas Vasiliauskas

    Director of Alytus Jotvingiai Gymnasium

    Donatas Vasiliauskas is the Director of Alytus Jotvingiai Gymnasium and an active advocate for entrepreneurial education. For the past ten years, he has been the key organizer of Junior Achievement regional expos in the Dzūkija region, promoting young entrepreneurship and innovation.

    In addition to his leadership role, he is also a teacher and mentor, actively working with students to create and develop student-run businesses. Through hands-on experience, he helps young people gain real-world entrepreneurial skills, preparing them for future challenges in business and technology.

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