The 20 best start-ups that will continue their journey in the Ajujaht accelerator program have been revealed. The jury selected the finalists in the preliminary rounds in Tallinn and Tartu. What makes this year’s best startups stand out? 

According to Eve Peeterson, head of Startup Estonia, it is gratifying that as the program matures, the level of this year’s newcomers has also increased, and we can most likely witness Estonia’s next startup success story. As usual, many software-based companies are among the best, and compared to the previous season, the fields of mental health and packaging problem also stand out. 

Selecting the best, the jury considered the idea and market potential, as well as the implementation of the idea, the self-confidence and determination of the team, and who could actually benefit the most from Ajujaht. An intensive training program awaits those who made it to the program, the aim of which is to help this year’s best start-ups to investor readiness and scaling. The TV program reflecting the development of start-up companies will be broadcast on the ETV channel in autumn. 

The teams’ pitches were evaluated by Eve Peeterson (Startup Estonia), Andra Altoa (SEB), Kristina Lillo (SEB), Meelis Seer (Elisa), Tanel Erm (Microsoft), Henn Ruukel (Microsoft), Lev Dolgatsjov (EstBan), Krista Kink (City of Tallinn), Raimond Tamm (City of Tartu), Ott Jalakas (Lingvist), Terje Eichelmann (Lightcodephotonics), Peeter Mõtsküla (TRINITI) and Harri Tallinn (Civitta). 

DataVie – Data protection management software for companies that lack the resources and expertise to meet data protection requirements. DataVie offers a complete solution for informed work with personal data, thus optimizing the company’s resources and creating opportunities for business promotion and increasing the company’s credibility. 

MeetnFly – A new dating portal/app that brings together people who are looking for a happy permanent relationship. MeetnFly has more comprehensive profiles than its competitors, and MeetnFly’s compatibility score helps you find a perfect mate. 

Fairmus – A music listening app with global ambitions that allows every artist in the world to connect with their listeners without intermediaries. Fairmus offers competition to large platforms such as Spotify. 

MindSee – A multilingual AI-based empathetic chatbot that supports people with psychological concerns. MindSee offers a 24/7, personal, non-judgmental and confidential chat environment. 

Bildly – SaaS-software for the construction industry, designed to improve project communication, reduce errors, safety risks and improve efficiency on the construction site. 

MAP-U app – A company that develops the fastest parcel delivery service, which allows anyone to become a parcel courier and thereby earn extra money. 

Glassity – AI-powered SaaS-software for cloud management. Glassity provides insight into cloud cost and usage, helps organizations optimize their infrastructure, automate cloud operations, and ensure compliance with security and regulatory requirements. 

VIID – an age detection solution for companies that sell age-restricted products or offer services intended for adults. 

Funki – An environmentally friendly, healthy, nutritious and allergy-free alternative to meat products based on mycoprotein. Funk products have a high protein and fiber content, reminiscent of the texture of fillet meat. 

Low imPACK – A company that offers durable and recycled textile waste packaging material, replacing disposable corrugated cardboard and veneer used in the packaging industry.  

TexPlasts – A startup that transforms waste materials into high value products with a minimal carbon footprint. 

Ray Foil – A compact and lightweight electric hydrofoil (eFoil) that fits into a backpack if needed. 

Paul Berg – A company that makes functional jackets, boots and accessories for Nordic climates for all seasons. 

Mossy – A company that produces air purifiers with environmentally friendly filters to replace HEPA filters that do not degrade in nature. 

Cara Health – A healthcare/technology startup focused on improving the health and well-being of mothers throughout pregnancy and childbirth. The company has created a new type of medical practice that combines preventive traditional medicine with complementary services. 

HopLocal – A platform for companies that helps you quickly and conveniently find suitable team events. 

Willuwalk – An app for parents that makes it easy and convenient to find companions for stroller walks. When going for a walk, the mobile application must be activated, at the same time select a suitable user from among the walkers in the same area and send him an invitation. 

Pakoo Packaging – A reusable and durable transport packaging solution that helps make businesses more sustainable by reducing unnecessary single-use packaging waste. 

Cerebrum Hub – A B2C online learning platform that provides results-oriented retraining programs for working adults.  

Baun – A company that aims to make single-use shopping bags unnecessary by offering reusable and depositable shopping bags made from recycled material. 

The Ajujaht accelerator programme and TV competition is a collaboration between the public and private sectors. It was initiated by the joint agency of Enterprise Estonia and KredEx. The partner of the program is SEB, and the sponsors are Elisa and Microsoft Estonian Development Center. In addition, the program is supported by law firm TRINITI, T1 mall, Tallinn, Tartu and Pärnu. 

Ajujaht is carried out by CIVITTA, Optimist and ERR. Over the years, nearly 5,000 business ideas have been submitted to Ajujaht, and several of them have grown into local and international success stories. The best-known examples include Bolt, Bikeep, Click & Grow, GoWorkaBit, FoodDocs, Groveneer, Timbeter, and many others.