The Powering the Baltic Bioeconomy: Estonia–Latvia–Lithuania Pitching Event held on May 12 in Tartu was won by Estonian startup ConceptEasy, which is developing a microalgae-based technology for precision modulation of the gut microbiome in livestock. The solution reduces antibiotic use and improves animal health and productivity.
The pitching event was organised under the BIOEAST Initiative and the BOOST4BIOEAST project by the Estonian BIOEAST Hub at the Estonian University of Life Sciences and brought together teams from across the Baltic region. Participants received pitching training, met investors and presented solutions supporting the regional development of biobased materials and circular bioeconomy solutions. Seven teams reached the finals, presenting their ideas in two pitching rounds to a jury and investors.
According to the winning team, their idea is based on using microalgae to deliver bioactive signals to targeted areas. “Our idea is to harness the power of nature by using microalgae and the tiny signals they release to replace antibiotics,” said a representative of ConceptEasy. The team plans to further develop the technology and prepare for the next stage.
The jury highlighted the strong overall quality of ideas, noting that execution made the difference. Mart Maasik, from Nordic Science Investments, emphasised that all teams show market potential. He commented, “All of them have strong potential to reach the market. The timelines differ, but there is no question about the ideas.”
Karl Peebo, from Metrosert AS, pointed out that some solutions are closer to market readiness, including one that converts brewery waste into food products. “They already have a product, understand their customers and could be market-ready quite soon,” he noted, adding that the winning idea will require more time to develop into a business.
Andrus Kurvits, from Sparkup Tartu Science Park, highlighted practical solutions for living environments. “The flat wall living concept stood out as a smart way to make small living spaces more functional,” he said, adding that while most ideas are still at an early stage, they have strong future potential.
The jury also stressed the importance of scalability and partnerships in bringing solutions to market.
Several special awards were also presented:
- Bold Ambition Award – Waste Streams for Materials (Estonia)
- Presentation Award – Green Biorefinery of Spent Coffee Grounds (Latvia)
- Novelty Award – Seed cleaning technology for intermediate wheatgrass and small-seeded meadow species (Estonia)
- Market Potential Award – Flat Wall Living – Turning Walls into Functional Living Space (Estonia)
- Future-Ready Strategy Award – Advancing Sustainable Bioproducts for Agriculture and Forestry (Lithuania)
- Sustainability recognition – Öseen (Estonia)
The jury included Andrus Kurvits (Sparkup Tartu Science Park), Karl Peebo (Metrosert AS), Mart Maasik (Nordic Science Investments), Silja Kana (Estonian University of Life Sciences) and Piia Pääso (Estonian University of Life Sciences).
