In Viljandimaa a program aimed at the growth of startups, organized by the business incubator of Central Estonia in cooperation with Startup Estonia. Her objective was to find future unicorns in Järvamaa, Jõgeva and Viljandimaa counties.A total of 18 teams participated in the program, each of which prepared a detailed business plan with an in-depth financial analysis. Three teams already have created their own startups, and the remaining plan to do this in the nearest time. The program was initiated by the business incubator
Central Estonia, and in the words of project leader Greete Paskivi, the program helped participants in developing their ideas and improving the existing business model. “Feedback from participants
showed that the program has supported beginning entrepreneurs: it increased their confidence in themselves, helped develop entrepreneurial thinking and opened new opportunities for business. All this contributes to strengthening the regional business environment and stimulates the economic development of the community, ” noted Paskiwi. She added that participants especially highly appreciated the practical training and
mentor support. Unicorn or unicorn company is a startup company that has received a market valuation of over one billion dollars. The program, first conducted in
Central Estonia, began with the Idekas Idea Competition. The best ideas and teams participating in the incubation program were determined exactly in this competition. Four months in a total of eight training modules took place in Williandi, covering such topics as strategic planning, marketing andsales, financial management, leadership and presentation of business plans. In addition, each team received individual mentoring. Principal Project Manager of regional Startup Startup Estonia Elina Dubova
noted the positive response of the local community. “Since 2024 year Startup Estonia has been paying more attention to regional programs, to develop startup communities outside such large centers as Tallinn and Tartu. I am glad that the entrepreneurs from Central Estonia actively participated in the program, gaining valuable knowledge, experience and contacts. “All of this, I hope, will be the foundation for the appearance of new superstars of Estonia’s startup sector,” said Dubova. In the future the business incubator of
Central Estonia plans to expand the marketing activities and attract more participants. For example, in Viljandimaa the plan is to launch a local training program with participating vendors of technological solutions and services. Also Extended Capabilities of mentor support for a more individualized approach. The Incubator will offer companies assistance in the creation of prototypes, the
next round of applications will
open on 1 April. The Startup Sector in Viljandimaa is growing Viljandi is the home of some world-renowned Estonian startups such as Cleveron, InToRingy and Solarstone. According to Startup Estonia, there are currently 14 startups operating in Viljandimaa , the total turnover of the first three quarters of the year increased by 11%, reaching a record 27.9 million euros. The leader in turnover was Cleveron with a result of 23.4 million euros. InToRingy with turnover 1.7 million euros and
Solarstonewithturnover1.3млневро.
