Vilnius has been awarded the top international recognition for its foreign direct investment (FDI) strategy, securing the prestigious Best FDI Strategy Award at MIPIM 2025, one of the world’s largest real estate exhibitions.
The Lithuanian capital was honoured in the fDi European Cities and Regions of the Future 2025 rankings for mid-sized cities, an initiative by fDi Intelligence, a division of the Financial Times. This recognition underscores Vilnius’ long-term commitment to attracting global investment, fostering a business-friendly environment, and driving innovation.
According to Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas, the award reflects the city’s continuous efforts to create favourable conditions for international businesses:
“Vilnius successfully integrates innovation, strategic partnerships, and a dynamic business ecosystem. Lithuania’s capital is not only a leading European fintech hub but also ranks first among EU cities for cybersecurity. Moreover, our commitment to sustainability has been well received by the awards jury, reinforcing Vilnius’ attractiveness for international investors.”
A Leader Among European Cities of the Future
Each year, fDi Intelligence evaluates European cities based on various criteria, including economic potential, human capital, cost-effectiveness, business-friendliness, and connectivity. In the latest 2025 rankings, Vilnius achieved outstanding results:
- 1st place for Best Foreign Direct Investment Strategy
- 4th place in Economic Potential
- 2nd place in Human Capital and Quality of Life
- 4th place in Business-Friendliness
- 3rd overall among mid-sized European cities of the future
These rankings highlight Vilnius’ competitive advantages in attracting international businesses and investments, positioning it as one of the most promising mid-sized cities in Europe.
Creating a Stronger Investment Climate
Vilnius’ ability to attract international investors is driven by its business-friendly environment, strong institutional support, and rapidly growing economy.
According to Dovilė Aleksandravičienė, Head of Go Vilnius, the city’s business and tourism development agency, these factors play a crucial role in drawing high-tech companies to Lithuania’s capital:
“Vilnius offers an attractive environment for international businesses, with seamless integration for foreign professionals, a highly skilled workforce, and significant economic growth. By focusing on innovation, digitalisation, and sustainability, we continue to attract global technology leaders to establish operations in the city.”
A History of Success in Attracting Investment
Vilnius’ international recognition for FDI is not a new achievement. The city has consistently ranked among the top destinations for investment in fDi Intelligence’s previous evaluations:
- 2019 – Ranked 1st in FDI attraction for technology companies
- 2022 – Placed 2nd among mid-sized European cities of the future
- 2023 – Won Best FDI Strategy in Europe
This continued success highlights Vilnius’ ability to maintain and strengthen its position as a leading investment hub in Europe.
Vilnius’ Growing Influence in Technology and Life Sciences
The Lithuanian capital is rapidly emerging as a key player in the technology and life sciences sectors, attracting internationally renowned companies such as Johnson Matthey, Guidehouse, and Norian.
With a strong focus on innovation and digital transformation, Vilnius is well-positioned to become a major centre for high-tech industries, including fintech, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence.
A Promising Future for Investment in Vilnius
As Vilnius continues to strengthen its global reputation as an investment-friendly city, its success in attracting foreign direct investment is expected to grow further. By fostering an environment that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and international partnerships, the city is well on its way to becoming one of Europe’s leading business destinations.
