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Startup Moldova Summit 2025: A Milestone Event for Innovation and Investment

3 Mar 2025

Startup Moldova Summit 2025

The Startup Moldova Summit 2025, held on April 16th in Chișinău, marked a significant milestone for the Republic of Moldova. With over 1,100 attendees from 30 countries, the Summit drew a diverse crowd of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders. 60 local and international speakers took the stage, sharing insights and strategies to drive the future of tech and innovation. More than 50 startups had the chance to showcase their solutions, while 50+ business angels and VC funds actively explored investment opportunities in this dynamic ecosystem.

The event featured 460+ curated B2B meetings, 15 standout side events, and the Startup World Cup Moldova Finals, where 10 finalists competed for a spot in the Global Finals in San Francisco, along with a chance to win a $1,000,000 grand prize.

Bringing Together Global Minds for Collaboration and Growth

This year’s Summit saw a diverse group of thought leaders from Netflix, Booking.com, and Atomico, providing valuable insights into scaling startups, navigating market challenges, and embracing new technologies. As the event unfolded, it became clear that the Summit played a crucial role in accelerating Moldova’s emergence as a key player in the global innovation ecosystem.

Two main stages—Main Stage and Community Stage—hosted an action-packed agenda of keynotes, panels, and live pitching sessions, providing attendees with opportunities to learn from top-tier experts. The focus areas spanned across artificial intelligence, fintech, and deeptech, giving participants a closer look at the latest global trends.

Startup Pitching and the Startup World Cup Moldova Finals

A standout feature of the Summit was the Startup World Cup Moldova Finals, where 10 finalist startups competed for a chance to represent Moldova at the Global Finals in San Francisco. The competition proved to be a springboard for future global leaders in tech, with Gleb Babii, founder of Aspect Health, taking the top spot. His healthtech startup, focused on women’s hormonal health through AI and wearable technology, will now compete for the $1,000,000 prize. Gleb also made history as the youngest Moldovan ever nominated for Forbes Under 30 in the HealthTech category, further highlighting Moldova’s growing influence in the global tech scene.

Spotlighting Moldova’s Startup Ecosystem in Startup Avenue

During the Summit, Startup Avenue served as a vibrant space where 50+ Moldovan startups showcased their innovative products and solutions. Visitors had the chance to experience live demos, engage with founders, and explore breakthrough ideas that have the potential to reshape industries. Investors and mentors provided valuable feedback, while the exposure to global media increased the visibility of these startups on the international stage.

Networking and B2B Opportunities

The Summit offered more than just talks and presentations—it also provided countless networking opportunities. With 460+ curated B2B meetings scheduled, startups were able to connect directly with investors, partners, and potential clients. These structured meetings fostered meaningful connections and laid the groundwork for future collaborations. Additionally, the Reverse Pitching sessions gave startups a chance to hear directly from investors about their expectations, allowing for more focused and productive discussions.

Side Events: Engaging Conversations on the Future of Tech

In addition to the main conference, 15 standout side events took place, providing deep dives into topics like diversity in tech, global expansion for startups, and sustainable business growth. Events like Startup Grind, the Future Creatives conference, and Startup Coffee allowed for informal yet impactful conversations, where participants could exchange ideas and strategies to scale their businesses globally.

Key Takeaways from Startup Moldova Summit 2025

The growth of Startup Moldova Summit reflects Moldova’s increasing prominence as a destination for innovation and investment. The Summit attracted over 350 startup founders, each sharing their vision for scaling businesses on the international stage. Beyond the impressive numbers, the event facilitated collaborations, inspired new ideas, and connected Moldovan entrepreneurs with global decision-makers, reinforcing the potential of Moldova’s tech ecosystem.

With its undeniable success in 2025, the Summit has set the stage for an even bigger event in 2026. As Moldova continues to attract more investors, mentors, and partners, it is clear that the country’s startup ecosystem is primed for growth and global recognition.

Key Numbers from Startup Moldova Summit 2025

  • 1,100+ attendees
  • 60 international and local speakers
  • 30 represented countries
  • 50+ startups showcased in Startup Avenue
  • 460+ curated B2B meetings
  • More than 50 Business Angels and VC Funds
  • 15+ standout side events
  • 10 finalists in the Startup World Cup Moldova competition

Looking Ahead to 2026

With its undeniable success in 2025, the Summit has set the stage for an even bigger event in 2026. As Moldova continues to attract more investors, mentors, and partners, it is clear that the country’s startup ecosystem is primed for growth and global recognition.

As Moldova continues to solidify its role in the global innovation landscape, the Startup Moldova Summit 2026 promises to be an even more powerful platform for startups, investors, and industry leaders to collaborate and build the future of technology and entrepreneurship.

About Startup Moldova Summit

With a packed program of interactive sessions and valuable learning and networking opportunities, Startup Moldova Summit is a flagship event for all those interested in business development and innovation.

The event was organized with the financial support of the EU4Innovation East project, funded by the European Union, co-funded by the Government of France and implemented by Expertise France, as well as with support from Sweden, UMAEF, the Government of Switzerland, and Helvetas through the OPTIM Project.

Partners: Inotek, Evolve4GE, UN Women, BeSweet, Pitching Masterclass

Partners: Orange Moldova, maib, Turkish Airlines, Doubles Studio, Be Sweet

Community Partners: MITP, Plug and Play, EBAN, XY, Dreamups, Yep! Moldova, Technovator, Glia, Business Angels Moldova, Mozaic, RoStartUp, Rubik Hub, Launch Romania, How to Web

Media Partners: Clear Story International, Yellow Business Pages, Business Class, Juorno Birds, Independent News, TechDoor, ItKey Media, Finanțare.ro, Simpals

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Serghei Cobuscean

Administrative Director at M Grinder ICT

An experienced project manager in both public and private sectors, with focus on attracting and managing aid and investment. Serghei established strategic partnerships with international donors, raising significant funds (e.g., €7 million for energy efficiency initiatives). Provided strategic consultancy to over 50 public bodies and private companies, leading to improved operational efficiencies. Managed cross-border cooperation projects, coordinating with multiple partners from different countries. Communication language: ENG, RO