Following a business mission from Korea to Estonia, Chosun Biz interviewed entrepreneurs working across the country’s technology sector. Among them was AdoptoMedia CEO Alexei Kuznetsov, who shared his experience building an AI company in Estonia and discussed the factors that have helped transform it into a major innovation hub.
Estonia – the Silicon Valley of Eastern Europe
The article highlights Estonia’s long-term investment in digital transformation, including AI-based education programs, automated digital public services, and AI-powered healthcare technologies. Combined with strong digital infrastructure and a startup-friendly regulatory environment, these efforts have made the country one of the leading AI and startup hubs in Europe.
Despite its relatively small population, Estonia has produced multiple globally recognized technology companies, including Skype, Wise, and Bolt. The country also has the highest number of unicorn startups per capita in Europe.
In the interview, Alexei Kuznetsov discussed how Estonia’s digital infrastructure, startup culture, and government support played an important role in AdoptoMedia’s establishment and growth.
AdoptoMedia’s case
Founded in 2017, AdoptoMedia develops AI-driven marketing analytics and forecasting solutions designed to help companies optimize campaign performance and automate budget allocation across large-scale marketing portfolios.
Alexei Kuznetsov explained that Estonia’s highly digitalized business environment and startup-friendly environment were the main reasons AdoptoMedia chose to build the company there.
“The biggest advantage is Estonia’s e-Residency system. It allows entrepreneurs to establish a company online from anywhere in the world in just 15 minutes.”
Having worked in startup ecosystems across Israel, France, Austria, and the United Kingdom, he said Estonia stood out for its innovation and flexibility. The location also makes it easier for companies to scale and operate across Europe.
Another important advantage is government support for startups. Through Enterprise Estonia (EIS), companies can join international expansion programs, receive export strategy guidance, and connect with local industry experts. Once a startup defines its target clients and business goals, EIS connects companies to potential local partners and supports collaboration opportunities.
According to Alexei Kuznetsov, this support played an important role in helping AdoptoMedia build partnerships across Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.
Estonia’s strong networking culture is another key part of its startup ecosystem. Events such as Latitude59, organized with the support of EIS, bring together founders, investors, and innovators to exchange ideas, and explore new partnerships. Our company took part in Latitude 59 Kenya Edition as partners of the event and provided prize packages to outstanding participants.
AdoptoMedia’s experience in Estonia shows how the right digital environment can give startups the foundation needed for international growth and collaboration.
