Thistle (EE)

Thistle is building a modular, AI-powered counter-UAS system designed to detect and neutralize hostile drones quickly and affordably. Their lightweight and mobile solution helps defence and security forces protect critical infrastructure against the growing threat of low-cost drones.

LifeGlue Technologies (FI)

LifeGlue develops clinically compatible bioink that enables researchers to build functional human tissues and organs. Their hydrogel platform is designed for real medical use, supporting better tissue growth and helping bridge the gap between lab research and clinical application.

EsaDres (EE)

EsaDres creates personalised wound dressings for chronic wounds using on-site compounding technology in clinics. By tailoring treatments to each patient’s needs, they aim to significantly improve healing outcomes while reducing long-term healthcare costs.

ImpactPCB (EE)

ImpactPCB turns electronic waste into a valuable resource by recovering precious and critical metals through advanced dry mechanical processing. Their technology supports Europe’s recycling economy while improving resource security and reducing dependency on raw material imports.

BabAI Orbital (EE)

BabAI Orbital develops onboard AI software that helps satellites detect and avoid collisions in real time. By enabling autonomous decision-making directly in orbit, their solution increases satellite safety even when ground communication is delayed or unavailable.

Tonight, these five teams will pitch live on the sTARTUp Day main stage as the jury decides who will take home the top awards. One thing is certain: the future looks bold, ambitious, and deeply innovative.

Here is the list of the TOP 30 startups.

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sTARTUp Day is organized by the city of Tartu, the University of Tartu, Tartu Science Park, Tartu Biotechnology Park, Tartu Business Advisory Services, Tartu Centre for Creative Industries, and Swedbank.

The international activities of sTARTUp Day 2026, introducing Tartu and Estonia as attractive tourism destinations for business and networking, are co-funded by the European Union (30 000 euros for 1 event)