Ventspils' Thriving Electronics and Electrical Engineering Cluster

Radioastronomy Centre in Irbene | Ventspils photo archive

Ventspils, traditionally celebrated for its historical port, has embarked on an ambitious journey, redefining itself as a burgeoning force in the global technology arena. This transformation underscores the city's unwavering commitment to innovation and technological advancement.

​1.Introduction: Ventspils - A New Beacon in the Global Tech Landscape
In 2014, a significant pit occurred. The Ventspils City Council unveiled a strategic ICT development plan, not just as a vision but as a blueprint for the city's future. The plan was bold: to catapult the city’s tech sector to new heights with a projected turnover of 92 million Euros and fostering an academic environment supporting 786 ICT students by 2020.

Ventspils Vocational School photo archive

​Educational Cornerstone: The Role of Ventspils Vocational School and VeA

In Ventspils, a robust educational framework forms the backbone of the city’s growing reputation as a tech hub. The Ventspils University of Applied Sciences and Ventspils Vocational School are central to this educational excellence, each playing a crucial role in developing industry-ready professionals.
The University of Applied Sciences offers a comprehensive Professional Bachelor's degree in Electronics through its Electronics and Electrical Engineering program, meticulously designed to prepare students for global career opportunities. The curriculum, spanning four years, covers a breadth of subjects from digital and analog electronics to microcontroller programming and industrial automation, concluding with practical training and a bachelor's thesis. The Faculty of Information Technology, known for its modern laboratories and industry-focused study programs, continually enhances the curriculum with insights from international experts, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for roles in renowned companies worldwide.
Parallel to the university’s offerings, Ventspils Vocational School provides a dynamic professional education environment, particularly excelling in STEM fields. With a diverse array of programs in ICT, metalworking, machine building, and networks, Ventspils Vocational School align with both regional and EU labor market demands. It stands out for its state-of-the-art facilities, including a pioneering virtual reality classroom, and emphasizes personal growth and professional development through initiatives like the Erasmus+ program and robust local and international collaborations.
Together, these institutions form an educational powerhouse in Ventspils, seamlessly integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience, and underpinning the city’s technological and industrial advancement with a continuous flow of skilled professionals.

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TestDevLab photo archive

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​Today, Ventspils stands as a vibrant tech hub, hosting over 60 dynamic tech companies and employing more than 600 professionals. The transformation of Pils Street 45/47 into a state-of-the-art tech facility symbolizes this growth. Companies like Accenture, Asya.AI, and Azeron, TestDevLab are now integral to Ventspils’ tech ecosystem.

​The city's strategy extends beyond infrastructure; it inlves nurturing a thriving tech community. Initiatives like the Ventspils IT Challenge and regular ICT Cluster Meetups are pital in fostering collaboration, essential for continuous innovation and growth.
As Ventspils progresses on its path of technological excellence, it serves as a model for other emerging tech hubs in Europe. This narrative delves into how Ventspils is not only adapting to but actively shaping the technological era.

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Azeron photo archive

​2. The Heart of Innovation: The Electronics and Electrical Engineering Cluster

Central to Ventspils' tech ascent is the electronics and electrical engineering cluster, a cornerstone of innovation and industrial growth in Latvia. Formed in 2011, this cluster has established a network that fosters collaboration between industry leaders, academic institutions, and research bodies, driving forward the sector’s global competitiveness.
A critical moment was the 2016 Business Promotion Commission meeting at the Ventspils City Council, which highlighted the region's dedication to these industries. The construction of the Electronics Center at the Ventspils Freeport is a testament to this commitment, offering comprehensive services for manufacturing and logistics development.

Radioastronomy Centre in Irbene | Ventspils photo archive

​The Ventspils International Radio Astronomy Center (VIRAC) and its spin-off, VIRATEC, represent significant strides in integrating Latvia into the European Space Industry. These initiatives showcase a model of infrastructure adaptation and resource sharing, setting a benchmark for future developments in the sector.

While specific statistics on the cluster's impact are beyond this overview, its influence on the region's tech landscape is undeniable. The collaboration among stakeholders has accelerated innovation and strengthened the economic framework, making Ventspils an increasingly attractive destination for tech investments.

Looking forward, the cluster is poised for continued elution, adapting to emerging technological trends and market demands. This ongoing commitment to collaboration and innovation ensures that the electronics and electrical engineering sector in Ventspils remains a leader in regional development.

HansaMatrix photo archive

​3. & 4. Key Contributors and Players in the Electronics and Electrical Engineering Cluster
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The strength of Ventspils' electronics and electrical engineering cluster is amplified by several key companies, each contributing significantly to the region's tech growth. These companies, diverse in their specializations and known for their innovation, are pital to the cluster's success.

HansaMatrix photo archive

HansaMatrix 
Specialization: HansaMatrix Ventspils is a leading manufacturer in Northern Europe, specializing in electronic systems and components across various sectors like transportation, telecommunications, energy management, IoT, medical, and defense technologies.
Facility and Operations: The company operates from an expansive 11,000 m² facility in the Ventspils Freeport area, boasting over 200 employees. They utilize cutting-edge technologies, ensuring a comprehensive production cycle from manufacturing electronics to assembling finished products.
Recent Growth:
2022 Revenue: EUR 5,791,814
2021 Revenue: EUR 5,411,215
Employee Count (2022): 85
Employee Count (2021): 83
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EuroLCDs photo archive

EUROLCDS
Specialization: EUROLCDS, a pan-European entity, focuses on manufacturing innovative liquid crystal displays. The company is renowned for prototyping novel display products and niche production of light shutters, diffusers, and other photonic elements.
Facility and Operations: Their advanced clean-room production environment in Ventspils spans 1800 m², equipped with state-of-the-art production lines, specializing in bi-stable and fast shutter liquid crystal display and smart glass technologies.
Recent Growth:
2022 Revenue: EUR 620,691
2021 Revenue: EUR 539,123
Employee Count (2022): 25
Employee Count (2021): 25

Quality Jobs photo archive

Quality Jobs
Specialization: Engaged in the production of communication equipment and electronic broads, Quality Jobs SIA also excels in manufacturing computer and peripheral equipment, demonstrating the technological prowess of Ventspils.
Recent Growth:
2022 Revenue: EUR 4,423,629
2021 Revenue: EUR 4,604,083
Employee Count (2022): 293
Employee Count (2021): 330

Ultraplast EU photo archive

ULTRAPLAST EU
Specialization: As a prominent Latvian supplier, ULTRAPLAST EU is known for its high-quality extruded thermoplastic sheets, crucial for electronic product manufacturing. Their range includes polycarbonate, acrylic (PMMA), PETG, GPPS sheets, and various modular systems and profiles.
Facility and Operations: They utilize new extrusion equipment combined with modern European developments, adhering to high European standards.
Recent Growth:
2022 Revenue: EUR 23,108,018
2021 Revenue: EUR 24,101,228
Employee Count (2022): 59
Employee Count (2021): 34

5. The Ventspils Special Economic Zone: Catalyzing Growth

The Ventspils Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a major factor in the region's economic vitality, offering attractive tax benefits that lure investors and businesses, especially in manufacturing, IT, and electronics.

The SEZ is distinguished by its strategic location and robust infrastructure, designed to enhance industrial and commercial growth. Its tax regime is among the most competitive in OECD countries, creating a fertile ground for both local and international investments.

Key tax incentives include significant rebates on corporate income and real estate taxes, along with reduced profit tax on dividends and incentives on VAT, excise, and customs duties.

These fiscal advantages have been instrumental in attracting a wide range of industries, driving job creation, and fostering technological innovation.

Ventspils Special Economic Zone offers a compelling mix of benefits, solidifying its position as an attractive destination for businesses. Its impact on the regional economy and its role in drawing diverse industries highlight its significance as a key driver of economic growth in Latvia.