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Marili Vihmann
Head Organiser at business festival sTARTUp Day 2021
Professional Background
Marili Vihmann is a dynamic and influential figure in the startup ecosystem of the Baltics, primarily recognized for her instrumental role in organizing the renowned sTARTUp Day, the largest business festival in the region. This vibrant three-day event, held in the picturesque city of Tartu, has become a cornerstone for entrepreneurs, startups, and innovative thinkers, attracting over 4,000 attendees who share a passion for entrepreneurship. Under her leadership as Head Organizer, the festival has grown to become a celebrated gathering that features engaging stage programs, effective matchmaking opportunities, and hands-on seminars focused on innovation and collaboration.
Marili has a rich history of involvement in various positions that showcase her versatility and leadership skills. Before her role at sTARTUp Day, she was pivotal as the Head Organizer of sTARTUp Talks at Contriber, where she facilitated discussions that fostered knowledge sharing and networking among entrepreneurial minds. Her dedication to the startup community is further demonstrated through her various capacities at Contriber, including serving as the head of UX at Tartu 2018 and managing the sTARTUp HUB. These roles allowed her to gain vast experience in program management, volunteer coordination, and organizing speaker logistics, emphasizing her ability to connect with people and bring innovative ideas to fruition.
Marili's commitment to supporting startups goes beyond festival organization; she has engaged with the community through various initiatives, encouraging collaboration and partnership among entrepreneurs and organizations. Her experience positions her as a thought leader in the startup ecosystem, where she passionately advocates for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Education and Achievements
Educationally, Marili Vihmann possesses a strong foundation that combines rigorous academic training with practical skills. She began her educational journey at Nõo Reaalgümnaasium, where she laid the groundwork for her future studies. Subsequently, she pursued her Bachelor's Degree in Economics at the prestigious University of Tartu, where she developed a keen understanding of economic principles and business strategies. This foundation was further strengthened through her international experience at the Universidade de Coimbra in Portugal, where she completed another Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Managerial Economics.
Marili's academic pursuits did not stop at the undergraduate level; she went on to earn a Master’s degree in Entrepreneurship and Entrepreneurial Studies from the University of Tartu. This advanced education has equipped her with the expertise to navigate the intricacies of the startup world and has undoubtedly enhanced her effectiveness as a leader in various entrepreneurial initiatives.
Notable Achievements
Marili’s accomplishments within the startup landscape are impressive and numerous. As the Head Organizer of sTARTUp Day, she has successfully curated a festival that promotes entrepreneurship and innovation, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of Tartu. By blending a marvelous stage program with vibrant side events and meaningful networking opportunities, she has made sTARTUp Day a must-attend event for anyone involved in the startup ecosystem.
Her enthusiasm and energy extend to her belief in continuous learning and knowledge sharing, as evidenced by her prior involvement as a teaching assistant in Business Ethics at the University of Tartu. Through this role, she was able to contribute to the development of future business leaders while staying connected to academic research and theory, complementing her practical experience.
Moreover, her previous positions, including her internships in Human Resources at SEB and her role in customer service at Sangaste Rukki Maja, have further enriched her skill set, allowing her to hone her people management abilities and customer relations approach.
Marili Vihmann is also known for her commitment to fostering community and connections among like-minded individuals. Her passion for the sTARTUp ecosystem, business conferences, and the growth of unicorns and startups highlights her enthusiasm for promoting impactful entrepreneurship.
Marili's Leadership in Startup Festivals and Ecosystems
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