Latvian company SIA “DMV Practice Test” is developing the mobile app “Luma”, which uses artificial intelligence and gamification elements to help users prepare for the driving theory test. The product has already been successfully developed in the UK and US markets, and the company plans to expand into other European countries in the future. To accelerate product development and strengthen its team, the company is using support from the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) to attract highly qualified employees.
The company’s CEO, Germans Gedgauds, acknowledges that people are the key resource for the growth of a technology company. However, attracting specialists in the IT sector requires significant investment:
“IT salaries are relatively high, so this kind of support makes a significant difference to our development. It allows us to focus more effectively on improving the product and developing artificial intelligence solutions, which is one of our key priorities.”
Several of the company’s specialists working on the development of AI functionality are involved in the support programme. The company acknowledges that the support received has already made a tangible contribution to strengthening its team within the first few months.
The company learned about the opportunity to apply for the programme from its cooperation partners, who also helped prepare the necessary documentation. Although the administrative process initially appeared complicated, in practice cooperation with LIAA proved much easier than expected.
“It is rare to encounter such a proactive approach! If there were any shortcomings in our applications, LIAA specialists not only pointed them out but also explained in detail how to address them. This makes the process much easier, especially for companies using such support programmes for the first time,” says Germans Gedgauds.
He acknowledges that after this initial experience, the administrative burden no longer seems as significant as it did at first, and the company would be happy to consider using other business development support instruments in the future.
“Attracting investment in Latvia is not always easy, so any support that helps companies grow and develop their products is extremely valuable. Our experience with LIAA has been very positive,” emphasises Germans Gedgauds.
The programme is financed under Specific Objective 1.2.1 “Strengthening Research and Innovation Capacities and Introducing Advanced Technologies in Enterprises”, Measure 1.2.1.4 “Support for Improving the Technology Transfer System”, of the European Union Cohesion Policy Programme 2021–2027.
