Openness to innovation

Openness to innovation
International cooperation
Smart city solutions

As a dynamic and nimble nation, Lithuania has been able to build flexible institutions that are hard-wired to respond quickly to the challenges and needs of the local, regional and global economy.  And this flexibility, speed and decisiveness is brought to the way the country is eager to co-create with business to facilitate growth that benefits all. We have learned from the best role models – from Ireland to Singapore – and we are now happy to share our best practices with the global community.

Digital solutions that make life easier for all

Lithuania is fast on its way to becoming a truly digital society. 95 percent of public sector services have been digitised and public uptake is huge, with more than 87 percent of the country’s citizens using e-government services. Meanwhile, for business that penetration is at 96 percent. Of particular note is the country’s online tax registration and payment system, i.MAS, which allows users to submit and pay tax returns with just a few clicks.

According to the EU’s Digital Decade 2024 Eurobarometer, 75% of Lithuanian citizens are satisfied with everyday digital public and business services, believing that digitisation simplifies life.

Forging New Paths with Leading International Accelerators

In 2024, Lithuania welcomed the arrival of the U.S. powerhouse Plug and Play. This collaboration with the renowned Silicon Valley accelerator is set to bolster Lithuania’s global standing in the startup ecosystem. Over the next few years, Plug and Play aims to nurture up to 60 innovative businesses, providing them with crucial opportunities to thrive and expand internationally.

Equally transformative developments are on the horizon for the education and burgeoning gaming sectors. Lithuania is set to host esteemed accelerators like “xEdu” and “GameBCN,” each bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record. Together, they will support the growth of another 60 startups in these dynamic fields, fostering innovation and driving future success.

Where talented people are empowered to improve their country

Create Lithuania is the first-of-its-kind programme for creative, proactive professionals who want to contribute to shaping the modern future of Lithuania. Participants with international experience can use the knowledge and innovative ideas they’ve gained abroad to help improve Lithuania for everybody.

Over the decade of its operation, 309 projects have been implemented, 277 professionals have returned to live and work in Lithuania, and as many as 40% of the participants have remained in the public sector. In total, projects have been implemented in as many as 50 institutions in the country.

Lithuania’s Open Data boosts innovation and economic growth

To make the conditions for innovations easier for businesses, the State is working hard to formalise the open data principles and to simplify the process both for the institutions opening data and for data users.

The Open Data Portal publishes all available data and registers requests for new datasets, streamlining access for data providers and users.

One standout example of open data’s impact is the travel planning and public transport app Trafi, essential for Vilnius residents navigating the city.

Recent accolades reflect Lithuania’s progress: in the 2023 Data Europa report, Lithuania soared to 7th place from 24th in 2019, recognized as a ‘fast tracker’ since 2020. The OECD also ranked Lithuania 10th in its 2023 Open Data Index. Projections suggest open data could boost Lithuania’s GDP by 1.71% by 2026, underscoring its role in societal advancement and economic growth.

Fixing the environment with actions, not slogans

Lithuania is emerging as a frontrunner in sustainability, setting ambitious targets and achieving remarkable progress in renewable energy, waste reduction, and climate action. By 2030, the country aims to expand protected natural areas from 17% to 30%, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, and cut landfilled waste from nearly 25% to just 5%. While these goals are bold, Lithuania is proving that decisive action and innovation can drive real change.


Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, has been named the European Green Capital for 2025, a recognition of its commitment to sustainability. The city has embraced climate-neutral urban planning, smart mobility, and biodiversity protection, making it a model for sustainable city development. Through initiatives such as greener transport, expanded green spaces, and energy-efficient infrastructure, Vilnius is leading the way in building cities that are not only environmentally friendly but also healthier and more livable.


Lithuania is at the forefront of Europe’s clean energy transition. In 2023, nearly 70% of the country’s electricity came from renewable sources, significantly reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. With ambitious plans to reach 100% renewable electricity by 2050, Lithuania is investing heavily in wind and solar energy while fostering innovation in energy storage and grid resilience.


Lithuania is also a leader in circular economy practices, making significant strides in plastic recycling and waste reduction. The country operates over 3,000 collection points for single-use beverage containers, with an impressive 90% return rate—one of the highest in Europe. Lithuania’s deposit return system is recognised as a model for other nations, demonstrating how effective policies can drive sustainable behaviour and reduce plastic waste.

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