DeepTech Coffee Morning | Turning Science Into Real-World Impact
How do you turn scientific expertise and advanced technology into a business with real-world impact?
Join us on 8 October for a morning bringing together scientists, research teams, deeptech founders and aspiring entrepreneurs who want to better understand the path from research to business.
Tanel Mahlakõiv, Director of Translational Research at Icosagen Cell Factory, will share practical insights from his experience working at the intersection of science and business. The session will explore what changes when you move from research towards entrepreneurship, how scientific knowledge can be translated into commercial opportunities, and what it takes to build a strong deeptech company with international potential.
You will also get an introduction to the DeepTech Accelerator, with applications open from 1 October to 8 November. If you are considering applying, the event is a good opportunity to learn more about the programme, its support and expectations before submitting your application.
Date: 8 October 2026
Time: 09:30–12:00
Location: Tehnopol, A building, 3rd floor, Mäealuse 2/4
Agenda:
09:30-10:00 Gathering and morning coffee
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 at Taltech
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 organizers 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!
More information about the event: kristiina.libe@tehnopol.ee
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.