The international pitching competition Falling Walls Lab Riga, Latvia will take place on June 30, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the House of Science of the University of Latvia (Jelgavas iela 3, Riga). The competition brings together students, early-career researchers and innovators from all fields who present their innovative ideas in a concise and convincing three-minute pitch – ideas with the potential to change society, science, and the world. “The Falling Walls Lab competition is a celebration of scientific impact, communication, and global thinking. I am glad that, after a seven-year pause, we will celebrate it this year at the University of Latvia,” says Tatjana Pladere, the initiative’s lead in Latvia.
Falling Walls Lab is a global initiative that takes place annually in more than 70 cities worldwide. In Latvia, the competition is organized by the DAAD Information Center Riga in cooperation with the University of Latvia and the Latvian Association of Young Researchers.
The winner will be selected by a jury from academia, industry and the public sector, based on three criteria:
- Breakthrough & Innovation
- Relevance & Impact
- Structure & Performance
The winner of the Falling Walls Lab Riga, Latvia will participate in the global finale on November 6, 2026, in Berlin and the Falling Walls Science Summit 2026, joining an international network of researchers and innovators. Finalists also participate in an extended program in Berlin, which includes professional skills development, networking opportunities and visits to leading research institutions.
Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by the DAAD Information Center in Riga.
Participation in the competition is free. Applications for participation in the pitching competition are accepted until May 31, 2026.
More information: http://www.daad.lv
If you have any questions, please contact: info.riga@daad.de
