Latvia will host one of the most significant and representative events in the country's economic life - the 8th International Forum on Humanistic Economics "INNOVATIVE ECONOMY IN TIMES OF GEOPOLITICAL CHANGE", which will take place on 5-7 March 2026 in Riga, at the Latvian Academy of Sciences. This nationally significant event is organized by the Institute of Economics of the Latvian Academy of Sciences in cooperation with the Ministry of Economics of the Republic of Latvia and the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).
For three days, the Latvian Academy of Sciences will become an international center of expertise. The forum will bring together distinguished scientists, leading representatives of economic sectors, investors, entrepreneurs, politicians, diplomats, and public figures. The forum is a platform for in-depth dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of strategic solutions.
The central theme of this year's forum is the development of an innovative economy in times of geopolitical change. Participants will discuss global trends in innovation, achievements in the dual-use economy, innovation in biomedicine and bioeconomics, the green economy, and prospects for sustainable development in a rapidly changing international environment.
The forum will seek answers to the following questions:
How can we discover new sources of growth and new export markets?
How can we better invest in education and human productivity?
How can we implement science-based innovations on a large scale, including in dual-use products?
How can we stimulate the growth of exports and foreign investment in Latvia and Europe?
What are the most effective and competitive investment projects for Latvia in the areas of smart specialization?
Special attention will be paid to discussing investment projects in various fields with a total funding of around €500 million, which have significant potential for bank financing, direct investment, and strategic partnerships. These projects cover key economic sectors, from sustainable energy and technology platforms to high-tech manufacturing and infrastructure initiatives. The projects are supported and promoted by the Ministry of Economics and the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA).
One of the central topics of discussion at the forum will be the development of an export-oriented economy and the conquest of new markets in the context of geopolitical change. In a special session, representatives of the Ministry of Economics, entrepreneurs, investors and the diplomatic corps will discuss current challenges and opportunities for expanding international cooperation. The discussion will be attended by embassy representatives and business representatives from Asia, Europe and America, highlighting Latvia's strategic role as a bridge for cooperation between regions.
International scientific partner - Berkeley Haas University of California
In 2026, the scientific partner of the forum is Berkeley Haas University of California. Today, the University of California, Berkeley ranks among the world's leading universities and occupies the highest positions in international academic rankings.
The university is widely known as one of the strongest centers for training specialists in computer science, information technology, economics, business, law, and natural sciences. More than 110 Nobel Prize winners are associated with the University of California, Berkeley. The university is one of the main sources of Silicon Valley's growth, attracting talent, technology and capital from around the world.
International Women's Award "LIEPA"
One of the most significant events of the forum will be the presentation of the International Women's Award "LIEPA". This prestigious award, established in 2025, is intended to honor outstanding women for their significant contributions to the development of Latvian society and their inspiring work in the fields of innovation, knowledge, and social responsibility.
The award will be presented in five categories:• Excellence in science, research and innovation development;• Achievements in technology, engineering, art, mathematics (STREAM); • Contribution to the development of society and equality, strengthening peace and security;• Leadership in entrepreneurship and job creation;• Achievements in educating the younger generation, youth development and talent growth.
Register for the event at https://economicforum.lv/lv/registration
Additional information: www.economicforum.lv, ei@lza.lv, +371 20207092 (Linda).