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BELARUS • INNOVATION
Seedstars Global
FEBRUARY 10, 2025
The numbers tell one story: over the past two years, hundreds of tech companies have moved from Belarus to new homes across Europe. But the more compelling narrative lies in how this migration is transforming both the companies and the regions where they've landed.
This transformation is particularly visible in Poland and Lithuania, where relocated tech companies have helped create thriving new innovation hubs. These companies bring more than just technical expertise; they're introducing new approaches to problem-solving that stem from years of operating in challenging conditions.
Consider how this plays out in practice: Companies that once focused on regional solutions are now building for global markets. Engineering teams that previously specialized in outsourcing are creating their products. This evolution reflects a broader shift in how technology companies from the region approach innovation.
The impact extends beyond individual companies. New tech communities are forming, creating networks that rival established European startup hubs. These communities are robust in Warsaw and Vilnius, where they've attracted not just relocated companies but also international investors and talent.
The latest cohort of startups from the EBRD Star Ventures programme showcases how entrepreneurs with Belarusian roots are creating solutions that transcend traditional industry boundaries, while addressing pressing global challenges.
At the intersection of accessibility and innovation, start-ups of Belarusian origin are reimagining how people access everyday services. Gulas.app is revolutionizing daily life with their instant meal planning and grocery shopping platform, turning the tedious task of meal planning into an efficient, waste-reducing process. This transformation of everyday tasks extends to the creative sphere, where Plain is democratizing interior design through their web-based platform, making professional design services accessible through automated space design and furniture recommendations.
In the energy sector, EnergTech Solutions is helping small and medium-sized businesses tackle rising costs with their "i-analytics" platform. Their solution enables companies to understand energy consumption patterns and manage dynamic tariffs, bringing sophisticated energy management capabilities to enterprises that previously lacked access to such tools.
The cohort's education-focused companies are addressing diverse learning needs through innovative approaches. Govar has developed a groundbreaking solution for the 1.3 billion English learners worldwide, connecting them for immediate video call practice within 30 seconds of opening the app. Their impact is already evident, with users progressing from hesitant speakers to confident presenters within months of using the platform.
Taking a different approach to educational technology, BabyRAIN is developing digital diagnostic and therapeutic games for children with autism spectrum disorders. Their platform aims to enable earlier diagnosis and more equitable access to care, potentially transforming how families access crucial developmental services across diverse communities.
The creative industry is seeing transformation through Filmustage, which is streamlining film and TV production management. Their AI-driven platform automates essential tasks from script breakdowns to shooting schedules and budget management, making professional production tools more accessible to creators of all scales.
In the sports sector, Tennis ComStat is democratizing performance analysis through their AI-based platform. Their technology provides coaches and players with sophisticated video analysis and statistics, bringing professional-level insights to athletes at various stages of development.
Relivent is reshaping the event industry through their AI-powered platform. By creating a digital environment that connects event organizers, ticket buyers, venue owners, and ticket providers, they're streamlining the entire event management process while using artificial intelligence to reduce human error and accelerate development.
Environmental sustainability takes center stage with BANTgo's "Uber for Recycling" platform. Their AI-powered solution connects consumers with recycling points through a global map database, particularly focusing on electronics and special waste types. The platform goes beyond simple location services, offering a chatbot that analyzes photos of recyclable items and provides digital rewards for verified recycling actions.
Fandy is addressing the gap in online charitable giving with an innovative approach to social impact. Their platform connects businesses with local charities through checkout charity tools, creating a donation distribution marketplace that benefits both sides. Early results show their solution increasing average order values by 26% while making charitable giving more accessible and efficient.
This article is part of “Beyond the Valley”, an editorial series exploring how founders in emerging Europe and Central Asia are building the crucial technology their regions need. From digital transformation to innovative solutions, we'll show you how local entrepreneurs are shaping the future of technology. Published by Seedstars, supported by the EBRD's Star Venture programme.
