Euclid Network is pleased to welcome EKA University of Applied Sciences as a new member of our community.
Based in Latvia, EKA University brings a distinctive voice to our network through its unique academic offering and active engagement in research and policy, EKA exemplifies how higher education institutions can drive systemic social and environmental change.
A Unique Academic Program in Europe
EKA offers the only master’s level programme in Circular Economy and Social Entrepreneurship in Latvia – and one of the very few of its kind across Europe. While many universities offer isolated courses in these fields, EKA’s programme is a comprehensive, interdisciplinary initiative designed to develop future leaders who can address the challenges of sustainability through entrepreneurship.
This programme is not intended to train traditional economists but to prepare social entrepreneurs who can innovate within and for the circular economy. The programme is deeply integrated into the university’s broader mission and has become a cornerstone of its academic strategy.
Research and Knowledge Leadership
In parallel with its teaching activities, EKA is actively involved in applied research through its Social Impact Research Group. This international group of researchers focuses on generating knowledge in the areas of social entrepreneurship, social innovation, and impact measurement.
EKA has participated in initiatives such as the European Social Enterprise Monitor, contributed to national projects assessing social innovation in collaboration with the Latvian Social Integration Fund, and provided input into policy development. These research efforts position EKA as a national and regional expert in the field.
Connecting Students with Practice
EKA ensures that its students are not only learning theory but are also immersed in practice. Students:
- Develop social enterprise concepts as part of their coursework
- Visit existing social enterprises to gain first-hand insights
- Engage with Latvia’s social entrepreneurship ecosystem, particularly through EKA’s collaboration with New Door, a prominent accelerator
- Participate in national events, including Lampa Festival, Latvia’s largest public ideas and civic engagement event, where EKA regularly leads public discussions on social innovation
Building on a Strong Foundation
EKA’s work in this space began in 2017 through participation in an EU project on circular economy, led by partners from North Macedonia. This marked the start of a sustained institutional interest in sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Following the success of this initial collaboration, EKA launched its master’s programme and deepened its engagement with stakeholders such as the Latvian Social Entrepreneurship Association, with whom it continues to work closely.
In 2025, the university also established the Baltic Circular Ecosystem – a new association focused on advancing circular economy education and research across the region.
Looking Forward
EKA sees the next five years as an opportunity to expand its research agenda, participate in policy development, and enhance its international presence. With increasing recognition as a national expert in social entrepreneurship, the university aims to contribute more actively to both European and global networks.
Why Euclid Network?
EKA’s decision to join Euclid Network was informed by shared values, overlapping areas of work, and the potential for collaboration. Having already engaged with EN through the European Social Enterprise Monitor, the university identified clear synergies and opportunities for mutual support.
“We believe that by joining Euclid Network, we can contribute to and benefit from a community committed to meaningful social change. We bring a strong academic and research base, and we look forward to learning from and collaborating with partners across Europe and beyond.”
EKA University of Applied Sciences is a welcome addition to the Euclid Network, and we look forward to working together to promote social entrepreneurship, strengthen research, and build a more sustainable future.
