Lithuania’s startup ecosystem has made headlines this week with two major international rankings—Dealroom’s Global Tech Ecosystem Index 2025 and StartupBlink’s Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025—placing it firmly on the global innovation map. Vilnius has been named the 13th fastest-growing startup ecosystem in the world and the leading tech city in the European Union. According to Karolina Urbonaitė, Head of Startup Lithuania at the Innovation Agency, despite a slight drop in one of the rankings, Vilnius continues to stand out as one of the world’s most favorable environments for startups. 

“The fact that two global rankings highlight Lithuania almost simultaneously shows that our efforts are being recognized,” says Urbonaitė. “Today, Lithuania is no longer just a fast-growing market—we are becoming a trusted exporter of innovation, a reliable partner for investors, and a hub for talent. These accolades are both encouraging and a call to action—we must seize this moment, strengthen our international presence, and support the development of globally relevant technologies.” 

Dealroom: Vilnius Tops the EU for Tech Ecosystem Growth 

The newly released Dealroom 2025 Global Tech Ecosystem Index compares the momentum of global startup hubs based on factors like business value growth, unicorn creation, funding levels, GDP per capita, and cost of living. 

The standout finding? Vilnius ranks as the No. 1 fastest-growing tech city in the EU, outpaced in the wider European region only by Kyiv and Istanbul. On a global scale, it holds 13th place overall and 51st in startup density, a strong showing for a city of its size. 

StartupBlink: Vilnius Climbs, Lithuania Holds Ground 

Meanwhile, the StartupBlink 2025 Global Startup Ecosystem Index ranks Lithuania 19th globally, down a few places from last year. The slip, Urbonaitė explains, comes down to slower annual growth—7.5% compared to at least 10% growth in other top 20 countries. 

Still, Vilnius bucks the trend, growing 22% year-on-year and rising two positions in the global city ranking, from 71st to 69th. It remains the only Lithuanian city in the global top 100, thanks to its growing activity, positive business climate, and startup outcomes. 

A Cybersecurity and Commercialisation Stronghold 

Lithuania is also staking a claim as a leader in specific verticals. It now ranks 3rd globally—and 1st in Europe—for cybersecurity, thanks to long-term investment and policy focus. 

The country also ranks 15th worldwide in marketing and sales capabilities, reflecting rising maturity in commercialising technology and building globally appealing products. 

“Lithuania is now being mentioned alongside some of the most influential tech centres globally,” says Urbonaitė. “We’re building a stronger ecosystem with the help of international accelerators and a thriving community. This autumn, we’ll welcome global investors and founders to Startup Fair, now in its 14th edition.” 

Fintech Dominance and a Life Sciences Push 

Lithuania’s strong showing isn’t just about rankings. Founders benefit from favourable regulation, lower operational costs, and a deep pool of IT talent. 

In fintech, the country still leads the EU in the number of licensed electronic money and payment institutions. Its 2023–2028 national fintech strategy outlines long-term growth priorities designed to cement global competitiveness. 

Meanwhile, life sciences are becoming one of the most dynamic sectors in the country, supported by institutions like Vilnius University’s Life Sciences Centre, Santara Valley, and a progressive R&D ecosystem. The government is also actively backing biotech startup acceleration and incubation. 

More on the rankings: 
StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2025 
Dealroom Global Tech Ecosystem Index 2025