TechChill 2025, a premier startup and technology conference, has officially opened applications for the “Fifty Founders Battle” — its iconic pitch competition. This year’s event is set for February 5-7, 2025, and will exclusively feature participants from the Baltic States (Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia), a departure from the competition's usual global inclusivity.
“The Fifty Founders Battle at TechChill has traditionally attracted applications from startups worldwide,” explains Annija Mežgaile, CEO of TechChill. “However, we believe in prioritizing support for innovative ideas in our own region. This year, only startups with verified Baltic roots will be eligible to compete for the grand prize on our main stage.”
Who Can Apply?
The Fifty Founders Battle welcomes early-stage startups that have raised no more than €700,000 in external investment. Startups with offices outside the Baltics are still eligible, provided they demonstrate a strong connection to the region. Qualifying criteria include at least 50% of their workforce based in one of the Baltic countries, or that a majority of their product development happens there.
What’s at Stake?
This year’s finalists will compete for a chance to secure €300,000 in investments from key players in the venture capital landscape, including Firstpick, Depo Ventures, and the Latvian Business Angel Network (LatBAN). According to Ansis Spridzāns, a board member of LatBAN, “The Fifty Founders Battle is a gateway for investors to discover emerging, high-potential ideas. Our community of angel investors offers both expertise and capital to startups, and we look forward to supporting Baltic innovators.”
Additional prizes include:
TechChill Community Award: A €10,000 cash prize, deposited directly into the winning startup’s bank account with no strings attached.
Draper University Program: An exclusive opportunity for one startup founder to attend an entrepreneurship program at Draper University in California, valued at over $12,000 USD, including all accommodation costs.
