Held in July along the scenic shores of Lake Sevan, the seventh edition of Sevan Startup Summit welcomed youth, experts, and ecosystem builders to a one-of-a-kind open-air gathering. Over the years, the Summit has evolved into a tradition that celebrates grassroots entrepreneurship, regional collaboration, and human-centered innovation. Beyond pitches and prototypes, it fostered meaningful exchanges — from lakeside sunset reflections to campfire brainstorming — creating a space where innovation felt connected and truly alive.
Recognizing its unique potential, EU4Innovation East leveraged this setting to champion innovation by co-developing and financing the Talent Generation Track — a visionary initiative designed to empower young people to explore entrepreneurship, even before they launch a startup.
The Talent Generation Track welcomed 148 university students and recent graduates from across Armenia, offering them a preincubation experience grounded in curiosity, collaboration, and practical skills.
Across five days, the program delivered:
- Expert-led thematic sessions
- Real-world startup challenges
- Personalized mentorship and peer learning
- A summit atmosphere that encouraged openness and creativity
Participants engaged in hands-on workshops, gained startup literacy, and connected with mentors and peers in an environment unlike any classroom.
The program didn’t just teach entrepreneurship — it invited participants to live it. As affirmed by Maria Yarotska, Talent Generation Co-Lead, Founder, Hackbox: “Talent Generation brought together 145 young people for a fast-paced, hands-on dive into real-world entrepreneurship. One of the most impactful moments was when participants went out into the Summit grounds to observe, interview, and validate their ideas in the field — many said it was the highlight of the program. The track helped them build confidence, test assumptions, and work through challenges in teams, all while staying grounded in their local context. It showed how much growth can happen in just a few days when curiosity meets structure.”
It was a learning experience like no other. In the words of Hasmik Margaryan, student at the French University of Armenia and participant of the Talent Generation Track: “It was an incredible experience to be surrounded by inspiring entrepreneurs, mentors, and innovators from all over Armenia and beyond. The program gave me valuable insights into the startup ecosystem, helped me grow both professionally and personally, and allowed me to build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. Being part of Talent Generation was more than just a learning opportunity — it was a chance to be part of a community that believes in innovation, creativity, and the future of Armenia.”
“My expectations from the programme were exceeded. Because of the mentors, their big international experience and also thanks to the whole team, the members, the students because I believe our Armenian young generation is quite promising. So, our journey altogether was quite interesting and fun.” shares Lilith, another student at the Talent Generation Track.
“Sevan Startup Summit is about networking and working with different groups of people every day was a huge opportunity to make new contacts, new connections. I met many new people who were interesting, with an interesting background. So, I will keep these connections.” mentions Any, another participant at the Talent Generation Track.
Their reflections highlight the transformative nature of the experience: learning, bonding, and building bridges to the future.
The Talent Generation Track has proven that entrepreneurial education can be both informal and transformative. In settings that encourage exploration students gained tools, confidence, and clarity.
EU4Innovation East is a regional project committed to strengthening innovation ecosystems across the Eastern Partnership. Supporting the Sevan Startup Summit — and in particular the Talent Generation Track — aligns perfectly with this mission. EU4Innovation East remains deeply committed to fostering new ideas, connecting ecosystems, and supporting the next generation of changemakers who will lead with purpose.
