Kick-Off Event in Riga for the EU Interreg Central Baltic Project "Succeed in Business"

Group of people standing on a stage.
Succeed in Business project gathered together students from Tamk, Tartu region in Estonia and Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies.

On November 11th and 12th, 2024, the EU Interreg Central Baltic project Succeed in Business started with a dynamic two-day event in Riga, Latvia. The Succeed in Business project aims to encourage young people to become entrepreneurs by providing them with practical skills, international networks, and continuous mentorship. This project offers a platform for students to turn their business ideas into reality, supported by coaches, mentors, and an engaged network of peers from across the Baltic region.

From TAMK, 15 students participated. The other participants were from Tartu region in Estonia, and students from the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies. Representing TAMK, project coaches Päivi Heimonen, Sanna Tahlo, Sven Rassl and Yulia Seergeva, TAMK’s project coordinator accompanied students during the trip.

Project Structure and Goals

The Succeed in Business project is planned for two years and two annual cycles. It is designed to encourage participants to become entrepreneurs. Each cycle offers a year-long journey that combines face-to-face workshops, lectures, and online learning activities. The kick-off in Riga was the start of the first cycle.  The meeting created a comprehensive framework for students to gain entrepreneurial skills and motivation to pursue their own business ideas.

Street view in Riga.
An atmospheric picture of an alley in Riga.

International Teamwork and Networking

During the Riga event, students were given the opportunity to work and discuss in mixed international teams. Each team included members from Estonia, Finland, and Latvia. This setup provided an environment for cross-cultural learning and collaboration. The arrangement improved students’ teamwork and communication skills while also creating valuable international connections for future entrepreneurial ventures. Working in diverse teams gave students firsthand experience in the collaborative nature of business. It also exposed them to different perspectives and problem-solving approaches.

People sitting around tables and looking at a stage.
During the event the students worked in international teams.

 

“The workshops and lectures during the Riga event were engaging and practical. Working with the other participants from Estonia and Latvia broadened my perspective and taught me the value of diverse viewpoints in business and cultures.”

Sebastian Anttila, TAMK Proakatemia student

Sebastian Anttila.
Sebastian Anttila, TAMK Proakatemia student.

Activities and Entrepreneurial Insights

Throughout the two days, students participated in workshops, lectures, and discussions focused on developing an entrepreneurial mindset. From idea generation to strategic planning, they engaged in activities that developed practical business skills. Guest speakers from the entrepreneurial world shared their experiences, giving students insights into the challenges and rewards of starting and managing a business.

Roofs over Riga.
Roofs over Riga.

Looking Ahead

After the kick-off workshop in Riga, the Succeed in Business project will continue with additional sessions in Latvia, Estonia, and Finland. These events will be complemented by several online sessions. The aim is to create a well-rounded platform that supports continuous learning and collaboration. These meetings will further strengthen students’ entrepreneurial skills and increase their connections within the Baltic region.

 

Text: Sven Rassl, Senior Lecturer, Business and Media, Tamk

Pictures: Sven Rassl, Senior Lecturer, Business and Media, Tamk