Vidzeme Business Forum

Investment and Development Agency of Latvia

Forum

Valmiera is preparing for one of the most significant regional business events – the Vidzeme Business Forum, which will take place on May 22 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The event is organized by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) in cooperation with the Valmiera Municipality, Valmiera Development Agency, and the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The forum is a key part of the "Vidzeme Entrepreneurs' Days," held in Valmiera on May 22–23. Please note that the event will be held in Latvian.

The central theme of this year's forum is export – viewed as a strategic growth direction and a vital engine for national development. The event aims to strengthen the export capacity of regional companies and foster a constructive dialogue between entrepreneurs and public administration.

May 22: Vidzeme Business Forum – The Path to International Markets

The program includes:

Data and Facts: Raimonds Lapiņš, Head of the Central Statistical Bureau, will provide a data-driven outlook on Vidzeme's contribution to the Latvian economy, highlighting the region's strengths and potential.
Policy Dialogue: A panel discussion titled "What should the state/municipality do for companies to become even stronger?" featuring Minister of Economy Viktors Valainis, LIAA Deputy Director Laura Štrovalde, and representatives from major regional companies like "Valpro" and "Avoti."
Practical Experience: Success stories and inspirational journeys shared by "Smiltenes piens" and "Madara Cosmetics." Additionally, Miks Balodis from the Design and Export Alliance will discuss the crucial role of design in international markets.
Expert Advice: Legal nuances in international contracts explained by attorney Edgars Atlācis, and tips on preparing for international exhibitions from the German-Baltic Chamber of Commerce (AHK).

Participants will also have the opportunity to attend expert lectures on available business development support instruments, effective communication in export markets, and principles of cross-cultural communication to build sustainable partnerships.

Support and Consultations

Information stands will be available throughout the event, offering individual consultations from specialists representing LIAA, the European Business Support Network (EEN), the Latvian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the financial institution ALTUM, and the Valmiera Development Agency.

Registration for the forum is open on the liaa.business.gov.lv platform until May 20, 2026, 11:59 PM.

The event is implemented within the framework of the project "SME Development for Innovative Business," co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund and the European Union.

Application is open until 20.05.2026.