TALLINN, Estonia (May 22, 2025) — Estonia’s flagship startup and technology conference, Latitude59, opened Wednesday in Tallinn with a message that innovation, integrity, and bold action are essential for Europe’s future. President Alar Karis officially opened the event, calling on the continent to harness digital tools to build a smarter, more secure society.
“This is not about giving up our privacy,” Karis said. “It is about being smart, secure, and respectful of our rights as we modernize the way we govern. And while we imagine how technology can improve our daily lives, let us also ask: How can digital innovation contribute to a stronger, more resilient Europe?”
Now in its 13th year, Latitude59 has grown into the most international startup and tech gathering in the Baltics and New Nordics. The 2025 edition is hosting more than 3,500 attendees, including over 900 startup representatives, nearly 700 investors, and 20 national delegations from more than 70 countries.
The central themes of this year’s conference are Perspective and Integrity — concepts organizers say are critical as Europe grapples with geopolitical instability and rapid technological change.
“More than ever, we need people who are willing to show up boldly, who walk the walk, and who will not stay silent,” said Latitude59 CEO Liisi Org in her opening remarks. “We also need perspective — the perspective of different viewpoints. It is this diversity of perspectives that makes us rich and allows us to see outside of our own bubble.”
Org added that defense is not just a topic at this year’s event — it’s a “signal.”
“It’s a signal that Europe’s innovation ecosystems are waking up to a new kind of scale,” she said. “Together with our partners, we’re opening the conversation on what it means to fund, build, and scale the technologies that will shape our shared future — with courage, care, and responsibility.”
Among the 179 speakers on stage over the two-day conference are notable founders and thought leaders, including Boyan Slat, CEO of The Ocean Cleanup, and Markus Villig, founder of Estonian ride-hailing giant Bolt. A special fireside chat between the two entrepreneurs will spotlight global impact and innovation.
Also appearing on the Bold Stage is Charles Landry, the British urban strategist known for pioneering the “creative city” concept. He will join Estonian investor Taavet Hinrikus to discuss the intersection of urban innovation and tech-driven growth. The session will also unveil new details about Kasvuhoone, a landmark tech and creativity hub being developed in Tallinn.
Latitude59 is taking place from May 21 to 23 at Kultuurikatel, a former power plant turned creative venue in central Tallinn.
