Founded last year, From air to form says state support is helping the company develop faster
Founded last year, Latvian start-up From air to form is developing a knitwear design lab that is unique in the Baltics, helping designers and clothing brands from Latvia and abroad turn their ideas into finished samples and collections. In addition to developing physical prototypes, the company also creates specialised knitting machine programmes and technical solutions that, if needed, allow clients to organise further production on an industrial scale elsewhere in Europe. The company already works with clients in several European countries and plans to strengthen its capacity, expand its export markets, and develop its manufacturing capabilities in the coming years.
To accelerate its development, the company is currently actively utilising the support instruments offered by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA). “From air to form” is receiving support to attract highly qualified specialists and has recently joined the business incubation programme run by the LIAA office in Jēkabpils.
“Thanks to the support for attracting highly qualified employees, we will be able to achieve our goals much faster. Of course, it would be possible to grow without it, but it would take significantly more time. Such support is very important in the early stages of a start-up,” says Tatjana Miškine, authorised representative of From air to form.
The company also views its experience working with LIAA specialists so far very positively: “I’ve had previous experience working with LIAA at another company, and I can say that a lot has changed for the better in recent years. The start-up support team consists of very responsive people who are always ready to help and answer questions. It feels like you’re not alone, but have a partner by your side who helps you move forward,” Ms Miškine says.
Although the company just recently joined the business incubation programme set up at the LIAA Jēkabpils, it has already identified several opportunities to utilise the available resources. “We plan to make the most of the opportunities provided by the incubator—including training and services, as well as various events and the chance to meet entrepreneurs from other industries. Such meetings allow us to gather ideas and gain valuable experience from other companies,” Ms Miškine emphasises.
The company emphasises that the support is significant not only in terms of funding. Equally important is the opportunity to develop skills, build contacts, and gain knowledge that helps prepare for the next stage of growth. “We’re still in the early stages of development, so right now it’s important for us not only to grow but also to learn. The opportunities offered by LIAA help us do that with much greater confidence,” Ms Miškine concludes.
Information material prepared with the support of the European Regional Development Fund
