© LMT

The ICT skills and expertise Latvia has developed over decades are now passed on to the next generations. Latvian universities put a great focus on offering a wide range of ICT study programs, from robotics and AI to cybersecurity and telecommunications. With over 100 higher education programs available, everyone can find something of interest.

Latvia's ICT history

Solid foundation for a strong ICT industry

  • 1918

  • 1959

  • 1992

  • 2003

  • 2017

  • 2021

1918

State Electrotechnical Factory (VEF) founded

The State Electrotechnical Factory (VEF), founded in a free Latvia, grew to become the largest communication technology producer in the Soviet Union and at some point employed over 4000 people. VEF developed and produced radios, phones, photo cameras, personal computers, and more. In 1936, the world's smallest camera at that time, Minox, was developed at VEF.

1959

Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science established

Initially known as the University of Latvia Computing Centre and focused on scientific research in mathematics, the Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science became one of the key foundations of Latvia's ICT industry. In 1990, the institute was the first to join the international e-mail communication network.

1992

Launch of Latvian Mobile Telephone (LMT)

Founded by former VEF employees, LMT was the first mobile operator in the country. Over the years, LMT has played a crucial role in the development of the country's ICT sector. It was the first to introduce 2G, 3G, and 4G coverage, and currently is one of Latvia's leading innovators in 5G technologies.

2003

Quantum walks algorithm developed

Latvian quantum physicist Andris Ambainis develops the quantum walks algorithm as a method for solving problems. It is currently among the most-used quantum computing algorithms.

2017

5G technology is introduced in Latvia

In 2017, LMT launches the first 5G base station in Latvia, making the country one of the first in Europe to boast 5G capability. A few years later, Latvia launches Europe's first 5G testbeds for cross-border simulations and defense.

2021

Latvia's first startup unicorn

Latvian startup Printful becomes the country's first “unicorn” after raising $130M in funding. Printful is a print-on-demand dropshipping company; its technology helps individuals and small businesses launch and grow their own online stores.

Next generation of ICT talents

The ICT skills and expertise Latvia has developed over decades are now passed on to the next generations. Latvian universities put a great focus on offering a wide range of ICT study programs, from robotics and AI to cybersecurity and telecommunications. With over 100 higher education programs available, everyone can find something of interest.

3rd

in Europe in the number of ICT students per 1M population

5%

of higher education graduates are ICT students

25%

of students choose STEM programmes

© LMT

Startups you should know

  • LMT Drone Park – a B2B and B2G drone fleet management solution that provides information on drone equipment, pilots, mission planning, and more.
  • MikroTik is a globally known router brand, which product, Metal 52 ac outdoor radio, is used on the SpaceX Falcon 9 lifting crane.
  • Mapon – a fleet management and asset tracking platform. It provides GPS tracking, fuel control, and many other fleet management solutions.