Wharton Global Master Class: Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Baltics

Since regaining independence, the technology and innovation industry in the Baltics have blossomed and are among the most digitally advanced and entrepreneurial in the world. The Baltic nations offer a special opportunity for business students with an interest in digital innovation, economic transformation, and entrepreneurship.

Participants in this extensive program will experience the vibrancy of two Baltic nations and will explore more deeply how these nations have transformed their economies and policies by prioritizing digital innovation, entrepreneurship and technology commercialization. Participants will meet with government and business leaders, idea generators and leaders who create a supportive environment for innovation and will gain insight into the startup supporting ecosystems in these nations.

Participants will collaborate with peers at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, University of Tartu Delta Management School and the Stockholm School of Economics in Riga to work directly on projects with Baltic startups. Results of these projects will be presented to businesses and other leaders at the end of the program.
 

Agenda

• Wednesday, May 25 (Riga) / KICKOFF DAY
  Panel discussions, meeting with local Entrepreneurs and VC / Private Equity partners. Networking.
• Thursday, May 26 (Riga) / STARTUP DAY RIGA IN LATVIA
  Visits to local startups. Travel to Tartu, Estonia
• Friday, May 27 (Tartu) / STARTUP DAY TARTU IN ESTONIA
  Site visits to local startups and incubators. Teamwork session.
• Saturday, May 28 (Tartu) / ECOSYSTEMS DAY
  Panels and discussions at the University of Tartu Delta Centre. Networking
• Sunday, May 29 (Tartu) / PRESENTATIONS DAY
  Presentations of startup case studies (projects). Group Discussions and Digital Innovation Live Case
• Monday, May 30 (Tallinn) / VENTURE CAPITAL AND E-GOVERNMENT DAY
  Travel to Tallinn. Seed capital, Venture capital, and Venture Acceleration in Estonia Discussion in E-Estonia Showroom: E-Government and Digital Citizenship, Challenges and Opportunities. US Embassy Visit
• Tuesday, May 31 (Tallinn) / VISIT TO STENBOCK HOUSE (Government Office, TBC.)
  Meeting with government and business leaders. Wrap-up Event and Presentation
   

Participation

• SSE Riga EMBA students: free
• SSE Riga alumni: 625eur
  (Full participation in program, accomodation & travel costs not included)