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The international idea pitching competition "Falling Walls Lab Riga"

n a dark room, a brightly illuminated red wall is visible, featuring the English inscription “Which are the next walls to fall?”. Surrounding it are motion-created light trails in shades of pink and violet, creating a dynamic, futuristic atmosphere
Photo: © Falling Walls Foundation

The international idea pitching competition "Falling Walls Lab Riga" will take place on June 30 at 14:00 at the University of Latvia House of Science (Jelgavas Street 3, Riga). The competition will bring together students and early-career researchers from various fields, who will present their ideas in a clear and compelling three-minute pitch—ideas that have the potential to change society, science, and the world as a whole. The winner will gain the opportunity to participate in the global final in Berlin.

Falling Walls Lab is an international initiative held annually in more than 70 cities worldwide. In Latvia, the competition is organized by the DAAD Information Centre in Riga in cooperation with the University of Latvia and the Latvian Association of Young Researchers. “Falling Walls Lab is a celebration of scientific impact, communication, and global thinking, and I am pleased that after a seven-year break we will celebrate it again this year at the University of Latvia,” says the initiative’s coordinator in Latvia, leading researcher Tatjana Pladere.

The winner will be selected by a jury representing academia, industry, and the public sector, based on three criteria:

  • Originality of the idea;
  • Relevance and potential impact of the idea;
  • Quality and structure of the presentation.
     

The winner of "Falling Walls Lab Riga" will participate in the global final on November 6 in Berlin and in the Falling Walls Science Summit 2026, thereby joining an international network of researchers and innovators. Finalists will also take part in an extended program in Berlin, including professional skills development, networking opportunities, and visits to leading research institutions. Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by the DAAD Information Centre in Riga.


Participation in the competition is free of charge. 
Applications are open until May 31, 2026.

Application form.

More information: https://www.daad.lv/en/2026/04/08/falling-walls-lab/
For inquiries, please contact: info.riga@daad.de

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