DeepTech Coffee morning | Turning Science Into Real-World Impact
A session on the DeepTech Accelerator for scientists, founders and research teams
In short
DeepTech Startup Network is hosting a morning session for scientists, research teams, deeptech founders and aspiring entrepreneurs. It presents the new DeepTech Accelerator and its application call, with an overview of the programme, university support and pre-accelerator options.
Tanel Mahlakõiv will share experience from research and business, including how scientific expertise can become a startup and how to commercialise biotechnology and deep-tech solutions. The programme also includes a Q&A and networking for people exploring how to build a scalable business from advanced technology.
Summary by Eventeeka from the organizer’s announcement. The original text follows below.
8 October 2026, Thursday · 09:30–12:00 · Free · EN
DeepTech Startup Network invites scientists, research teams, deeptech founders and aspiring entrepreneurs to learn more about the new DeepTech Accelerator and its open call for applications, running from 1 October to 8 November. The event is especially valuable for those considering applying to the programme, offering a chance to learn more about the accelerator before submitting an application.
Tanel Mahlakõiv, Director of Translational Research at Icosagen Cell Factory and an experienced scientist working at the intersection of research and business, will share insights from his academic and entrepreneurial journey, including how scientific expertise can be turned into a startup with global potential and why international collaboration matters along the way.
Date: 8 October 2026
Time: 09:30–12:30
Location: Tehnopol, A building, 3rd floor, Mäealuse 2/4
Agenda:09:30-10:00 Gathering
10:00 -10:15 Opening words and DeepTech Accelerator overview | Kristiina Libe, DeepTech Project Manager, Tehnopol
10:15 -10:30 University support and pre-accelerator | Rasmus Kalep, Start-up Manager, Startup Centre: Technology Transfer Office
10:30 – 11:10 Turning Science Into Real-World Impact | Tanel Mahlakõiv, Director of Translational Research, Icosagen Cell Factory
Practical and action-oriented tips for a scientist navigating the business world, from understanding the differences between science and business and recognising how scientific knowledge can be transferred, to building broad teams and approaching entrepreneurship as a skill rather than an identity.
The session will also cover the key steps in commercialising biotechnology and deep-tech solutions, including identifying the right problem, developing the solution, navigating regulations, understanding IP and freedom to operate, validating the technology, and building international collaboration.
11:10 – 11:25 Q&A
11:25 – 12:00 Networking
Who should join? We are inviting deeptech startups, research teams, scientists, spin-offs, aspiring founders and anyone exploring how to turn advanced technology into a scalable business. The session is especially useful for teams considering applying to the DeepTech Accelerator and looking to understand the programme, selection criteria, support available and what makes a strong application.
It is also a good opportunity to ask questions directly from the accelerator oragnizers and connect with others from the deeptech ecosystem.
The event will be held in English and is free of charge. Registration is required to secure your spot!
This activity is part of the DeepTech Startup Network. The network was created to bring together and strengthen existing initiatives through which the state invests more than €12 million in deep technology to support the growth of science-based companies.
The aim is to connect scientists and entrepreneurs in order to accelerate the transfer of research-based solutions into business, grow strong deep tech startups, and create high-tech and sustainable jobs. Through public investment, the network also creates the conditions for greater private capital involvement in later development stages, strengthening the overall development of Estonia’s deep tech startup ecosystem.
The Deep Tech Startup Network is funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Communications.
Coming up
-
Festival Pass @ Tallinn Design Festival 2026
Festival pass for Disainiöö’s main events, including talks, awards, design performance and conference
28 September 2026 – 4 October 2026 · Põhjala tehas, Marati tänav 5, 10151 Tallinn, Harju maakond
Conferences
-
Mindfulness praktikate grupp Eleriga
A mindfulness group for people who feel stressed, tired, anxious or overwhelmed
28 September 2026 · Šveitsi maja (I korruse saal), Roosikrantsi tänav 11, 10119 Tallinn, Harju maakond
Conferences
-
Inspiratsiooniõhtu
Live discussion on investing, real estate opportunities and future investments
28 September 2026 · Avala Ärimajad, Veskiposti tänav 2, 10132 Tallinn, Harju maakond
Conferences
-
Auto: Kuidas valida, osta, müüa ja mitte raha kaotada
Discussion and practical meeting on choosing, buying, selling and maintaining a car
28 September 2026 · JabPoint Self Service, Plaasi tänav 2, 13816 Tallinn, Harju maakond
Conferences
-
Мастермайнд: как предпринимателю сохранять баланс между бизнесом, семьёй и собой
A small mastermind for entrepreneurs to discuss balance, priorities and practical experience
29 September 2026 · Veerenni Söökla, Veerenni tänav 56, 11313 Tallinn, Harju maakond
Conferences
-
Mindfulness praktikate grupp Eleriga (RU)
A mindfulness group for people with stress, fatigue, anxiety or burnout
29 September 2026 · Šveitsi maja (1.korruse saal), Roosikrantsi tänav 11, 10119 Tallinn, Harju maakond
Conferences