The RTU Development Fund closed the year 2023 with financial resources of EUR 2 502 686. This funding has enabled the RTU to support projects related to science and education, as well as to provide scholarships for achievements in studies, science and research, and for the promotion of practical skills.

Of the funds raised in 2023, €1 131 147 were donations from companies. Mikrotīkls SIA received the largest donation of €1 million. Last year, €38,424 was received in donations from individuals, the largest amount being €15,000. In 2023, private donations reached a record high, reflecting the growing public awareness and willingness to donate to education and science.

The donations raised support projects related to science and education. In 2023, several important projects have received support. For example, the RTU HPC (High-Performance Computing) Centre purchased four powerful servers to help develop the HPC centre to promote the use of digital technologies in research. In collaboration with the RTU Science and Innovation Centre Design Factory, the Inno Health Hub medical technology development programme was organised, where medical and engineering students developed four innovative solutions for using big data or genomic data in cancer diagnostics. In 2023, financial support was also provided to the RTU Curiosity Centre "Futurimo Riga", which offers a variety of interactive and educational opportunities in engineering for pre-school and school-age children. In addition to these projects, donations have also supported many other projects and initiatives that contribute to the development of science and education.

A significant part of the funds raised in 2023 went towards scholarships. EUR 843 212 was paid out in practical skills scholarships to 426 students from Riga Technical University (RTU) and other universities. Scholarships for academic achievements were awarded to 484 students and amounted to EUR 474 752, while scholarships for scientific and research achievements amounted to EUR 15 150 and were awarded to 19 students, scientific staff or other persons involved in science and research.

"We would like to express our gratitude for every donation on behalf of the RTU Development Foundation, RTU and the whole society. The amount of funds raised has increased steadily over the last few years. Regardless of its size, every donation contributes to a positive change in the culture of giving to education and science. Because each one can serve as a source of inspiration for others, an agent of change and support for the growth of Latvia. We are very happy and proud to be part of this process, which gives us so much as a society," says Anita Straujuma, Executive Director of RTU Development Foundation.

In the coming years, the RTU Development Fund will actively continue its efforts in attracting donations, thereby fostering collaboration between higher education institutions, industry, and students/researchers while ensuring ongoing support. To expand its activities and achieve higher results, the following objectives have been set for the upcoming years: establishing new partnerships, including with companies in regional areas, strengthening digitalization, supporting the STEAM field, and enhancing collaboration with Latvians living abroad. 

The RTU Development Fund's 2023 Annual Report can be accessed HERE.