Fomo.Observer published an in-depth article by journalist Justin Petrone on Tartu’s deep tech ecosystem, highlighting the University of Tartu, Sparkup Tartu Science Park, and FireSand, an alumnus of our accelerator.
The article highlights that two-thirds of Estonia’s deep tech startups are born in Tartu, a result not just of the university, but of an entire ecosystem that helps researchers and students turn ideas into businesses.
Our head of incubation services, Pille-Riin Meerits, spoke about what makes Tartu such a strong hub for science-based startups. “The biggest challenge is moving from a scientific mindset to a business mindset,” she said, describing the hands-on approach Sparkup takes with teams from their earliest steps through to market entry.
The story also focuses on FireSand, an alumnus of our accelerator, which produces solid fuel tablets for hikers, soldiers, and rescue teams. The product has already been tested on the front lines in Ukraine. FireSand’s founders, Martin Timusk and Martin Kannel, explained how Sparkup mentors have helped them along the way, from product packaging to the business plan.
Founders of FireSand, from left Martin Kannel, Martin Timusk and Raido Rõivas.
Lisaks rõhutab artikkel Tartu eeliseid laiemalt: linna kompaktsus, mille tõttu on kõik olulised kohtumised vaid 15 minuti kaugusel, ning kogukond, kus investoriga kohtumine võib alguse saada lihtsalt kohvikus.
