„When entrepreneurs at a similar stage of development cross paths—even just in a coffee corner—their chances of success are significantly higher than when working alone in a garage. We teach the fundamentals of entrepreneurship through practice – that’s the essence of Eedu,” explains Mart Habakuk, Chancellor of EBS. In collaboration with the development company Metro (Metro Capital OÜ), a visionary education and business campus will be built on the former parking lot of the Estonian Business School by 2027. The 30-story high-rise will foster synergy between education, culture, and entrepreneurship. The tower will also house a hotel and over a hundred high-end apartments.
“The best way to apply what you’ve learned is to bring together people with complementary competencies and the right chemistry. We want to create more spaces in Estonia where people can meet – whether for work, study, or events. And we take great pride in seeing our students grow into ambitious employers,” says Mart Habakuk, the initiator of Eedu.
Real estate development is just the framework into which new knowledge-intensive and mutually reinforcing businesses will be integrated—from accelerators to investment funds. The third floor of the Eedu campus will feature a flexible incubator space for startups, supporting their next growth leap. “Every year, Eedu can help over a hundred companies take off. The campus will be an open space, welcoming not only EBS students but also learners from other institutions, both from Estonia and beyond,” explains Habakuk.
“For a startup, gaining experience and combining theory with practice is more valuable than just cutting costs. Young entrepreneurs often lack confidence, and most challenges are the same – how to develop a business model, enter major markets, or raise capital. Here, they will get the momentum and support needed to bring ideas to life. Experienced lecturers and seasoned entrepreneurs are ready to share both knowledge and encouragement,” says Madis Brjantsev, partner at Metro and an EBS alumnus, describing the Eedu vision.
“We are entering an era where high-quality education can be accessed anytime, anywhere. AI and global online learning opportunities are transforming universities, including EBS. Students now have more choices and higher expectations than ever. So we approached this challenge with common sense – why should students come to campus when education is just a click away and often free? The answer is simple: a place to meet like-minded entrepreneurial people is the key reason to study, work, or attend events here,” confirms Habakuk. According to him, true value creation happens when entrepreneurs in similar growth phases interact. “Once a business becomes a growth company and employs over ten people, it’s time to spread its wings,” he adds.
Although every major project carries risks, both Habakuk and Brjantsev agree that now is the right time to build Eedu. The ongoing economic downturn of the past two years allows construction to begin under more favorable conditions than during a boom period. “A large-scale investment like this is a crucial boost to the Estonian economy right now,” say the project’s leaders.
Knowledge-intensive entrepreneurship is becoming increasingly important in EBS’s strategy. “We are funding Eedu’s open campus through the sale of high-rise apartments,” explains Habakuk. “Developing real estate to advance education is not just an empty statement.” EBS has long lacked sufficient space for larger community events and innovation teams that require dedicated workspaces and support services.
The lower floors of the Eedu high-rise will be dedicated to education and events. The first floor will feature a 400-seat atrium, a 200-seat auditorium, and a dining area. The second floor will house 50-60 seat lecture halls, a library, and university offices. A green rooftop space will be created on the lower part of the building. Parking will be moved underground.
Located at Lennuki 2/4, the bright balcony apartments on the upper floors of Eedu align with the 15-minute city concept – where everything necessary for daily life is within easy reach. The A-energy class building features expansive windows and aims to achieve the LEED Platinum certification, ensuring both energy efficiency and a modern living environment.
“We are not just building square meters; we are creating a valuable living environment. Fortunately, the real estate sector in Estonia is moving in the same direction,” notes Madis Brjantsev, partner at Metro Capital. “Today’s development must be both sustainable and inspiring.”
Habakuk agrees: “An inspiring environment, ambitious people, and an entrepreneurial lifestyle will make Eedu a hub for growth and experimentation—for individuals and businesses alike. This will be the place where tomorrow’s business leaders and visionaries take their first steps.”
Read more: www.eedu.ee apartemendid.eedu.ee
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