Incubators And Accelerators "Finland"
Select a Country
FINLAND
GERMANY
PORTUGAL
Incubators & Accelerators
Finland boasts a vibrant startup ecosystem, providing a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their businesses. With a focus on fostering innovation, Finland has become a hub for incubators and accelerators that offer vital support to early-stage companies.
Here are some of the top incubators and accelerators in Finland:
1. xEdu
xEdu is Europe’s leading edtech startup accelerator, specializing in helping startups develop educational solutions with a significant pedagogical impact. Through two annual programs—Spring (March to June) and Fall (September to December)—xEdu offers extensive support in product development, market entry, and international expansion. For edtech startups at an earlier stage, xEdu provides an incubation pathway, guiding teams as they prepare for full-scale acceleration.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
- Startups creating educational solutions with a focus on innovation and pedagogical value.
- talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Guidance, mentorship, and access to a network of education-focused investors and experts talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
3 months (acceleration program); incubation available for pre-seed startups talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Via xEdu’s official website during open application periods.
2. DEINE Accelerator
DEFINE Accelerator is a 3-month program aimed at startups and SMEs focused on defense, security, and dual-use technologies. Supported by the City of Riihimäki and Redstone, and involving collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces and leading industry companies, DEFINE aims to transform innovative defense products into scalable businesses.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Startups creating educational solutions with a focus on innovation and pedagogical value.
- Applicants need to have at least a prototype and are preferably at the stage where they are seeking feedback for product development and internationalization talk to Susan…
Program Duration:
- Runs for three months, from end of November 2024 to end of February 2025.
- Weekly commitments include group sessions and one-on-one coaching.
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate participants’ availability talk to Susan…
Program Details:
- Start Date: The first batch launches on November 22nd, 2024, during the Slush week.
- Location: Based in Riihimäki, Finland, a hub for defense technology innovation with close ties to major defense institutions and companies.
Program Phases
- Phase 1: Validation & Strategy Development: Refine your business idea and strategy through expert mentorship.
- Phase 2: Technology Development & Prototyping: Utilize cutting-edge facilities for product development and testing.
- Phase 3: Go-to-Market & Investment Readiness: Prepare for market entry and investment attraction from global defense and commercial sectors.
Mentorship and Support
- Expert Guidance: Receive one-on-one coaching from industry experts including Kaj Hagros and Oskari Lehtonen from Redstone Nordics, among others.
- Industry Insight: Gain direct access to defense and technology leaders, and potential customers within the NATO and EU ecosystems.
Application Process
- Eligibility: Open to startups and SMEs from NATO countries with a focus on defense and dual-use technologies.
- How to Apply: Apply through the DEFINE website with no participation fee. Applicants cover their travel and direct costs.
Upcoming Events
- SLUSH Business Growth Event: November 22, 2024
- Defense Innovation Workshop: January 2024
- International Dual-Use Technology Showcase: February 2024
For more information:
- Updates and applications are available on the DEFINE Accelerator’s official website and social media channels.
- For further questions or detailed queries about contact
- Henrietta Hirvonen, Dealflow Manager, Redstone VC, hirvonen@redstone.vc
- Teemu Seppälä, Technology and Innovation Director, City of Riihimäki, seppala@riihimaki.fi
2. Business Finland
Business Finland plays a pivotal role in Finland’s startup ecosystem by supporting innovative companies through funding and internationalization services. Their programs cater to startups at various stages, with a focus on fostering technology-driven innovation and growth. Notable programs include the Young Innovative Company funding and the New Space Economy program, aimed at promoting advancements in space technology.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups, including tech and space innovation companies talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Financial support, market expansion assistance, and connections to international investors talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing, with specific programs announced throughout the year talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply via Business Finland’s online portal.
3. Gorilla Ventures
Gorilla Ventures is a Helsinki-based accelerator and seed fund offering both capital and mentorship to Finnish startups. They specialize in guiding startups through critical growth phases, including product-market fit, go-to-market strategy, and securing additional funding.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Seed-stage startups, primarily in Finland talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Seed funding, mentorship, and guidance in securing growth milestones talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing support; batch-based talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Open year-round through Gorilla Ventures’ platform.
4. Kiuas
Kiuas is one of Finland’s most trusted startup accelerators, offering both the Kiuas Start (a 4-week introductory program) and the Kiuas Accelerator (an 8-week intensive program). Kiuas provides one-on-one mentorship, community support, and personalized guidance to help startups achieve their growth goals.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups ready to accelerate their product development and market presence talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, community engagement, access to perks, and networking opportunities talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
4-week and 8-week programs talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted online for each program.
5. EnergySpin
EnergySpin is a multi-corporate accelerator focusing on energy sector startups. Their 8-week program helps startups refine their business models, prepare for investor meetings, and accelerate their growth in energy, digitalization, IoT, and related sectors.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups in energy and related sectors such as IoT and cybersecurity talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Tailored business model refinement, corporate collaborations, and investor networks talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
8 weeks talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply via the EnergySpin website.
6. Health Incubator Helsinki
Health Incubator Helsinki is a three-year incubation program designed to transform research-based health sector innovations into scalable businesses. The program provides startups with tailored coaching, mentoring, and access to comprehensive services, without taking equity in return.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Research-based health sector startups with two founders and a scalable solution talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, office space, access to networks, and technical guidance talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
3 years talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted via the Health Incubator Helsinki website.
7. Red Brick Accelerator
Red Brick Accelerator offers an intensive 10-week program that helps startups achieve product-market fit and secure investments. Through high-quality mentoring sessions and workshops, teams are guided through key milestones leading up to a Demo Day, where they pitch to potential investors.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups looking to refine their product and enter the market talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, business coaching, and opportunities to secure funding talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
10 weeks; pre-accelerator option available for idea-stage startups talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications can be submitted online.
8. Venture Gym
Venture Gym, located in Kotka, supports startups across various industries, including mobile games, healthcare, and fintech. With a robust business accelerator program, Venture Gym connects startups to industry experts, providing training, financial services, and networking opportunities to foster growth.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups across industries such as healthcare, fintech, and ICT talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Comprehensive support in business development and financial management talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Varies by startup needs talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted via the Venture Gym website.
9. ESA BIC
The ESA Business Incubation Center (ESA BIC) focuses on startups in the space technology sector, providing funding and access to specialized technical and business support. Participants benefit from up to EUR 75K in funding, along with mentoring and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups in space technology talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Up to EUR 75K in funding, technical and business mentoring, and access to advanced facilities talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing, with regular check-ins talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted online.
10. Helsinki XR Center
The Helsinki XR Center incubates startups in the VR/AR sector. With a trial period to assess team capabilities and a 12-month incubation phase, startups benefit from access to cutting-edge VR/AR tools, mentorship, and a collaborative development environment.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups in VR/AR talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, access to XR hardware and co-working spaces, and networking events talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
3 months (trial); up to 12 months (incubation) talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply through the Helsinki XR Center website.
11. Business Oulu
Business Oulu’s one-year incubation program assists startups in developing business models, securing financing, and exploring export opportunities. With mentorship and coaching, participants are prepared to bring their innovations to market and secure long-term success.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups in Oulu’s industrial ecosystem talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, access to business programs, and assistance in securing financing talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
1 year talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted via Business Oulu’s official website.
12. Apelago Accelerator
The Apelago Accelerator focuses on scaling solutions that address some of the most pressing global challenges, with a particular focus on sea and maritime innovation. By offering comprehensive mentorship, expert guidance, and funding opportunities, Apelago supports startups that align with their vision of solving real-world problems, particularly in the context of ocean and sustainability.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups with innovative ideas that can positively impact global challenges, particularly related to the sea and maritime sectors talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Access to a network of industry experts, tailored workshops, and mentorship talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
The program typically runs for several months, providing startups with the support they need to scale and grow talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted via Business Oulu’s official website.
5. More Information:
For additional details, contact info@apelago.fi
13. Aaltoes Ignite
Aaltoes Ignite is a program designed for students interested in entrepreneurship, based in Espoo. The program provides guidance, mentorship, and access to Aalto University’s vibrant startup community, enabling students to explore their entrepreneurial ideas.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
University students interested in entrepreneurship talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, community support, and access to university resources talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted through Aaltoes Ignite’s website.
14. Aalto Startup Center
Located in Espoo, Aalto Startup Center supports research-based startups, particularly those operating out of Aalto University’s Otaniemi campus. The incubator focuses on nurturing innovative ideas with strong research backing.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Research-based startups talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Access to research facilities, mentorship, and investor networks talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply through Aalto Startup Center’s website.
15. Boost Turku
Boost Turku is a startup accelerator and network based in Turku, Finland. It offers various programs and events aimed at early-stage startups, providing mentorship and support to help them scale.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups based in Turku talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, networking events, and growth support talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Varies by program talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications can be submitted through the Boost Turku website.
16. Combient Foundry
Combient Foundry is a Nordic corporation accelerator that focuses on next-generation solutions. The accelerator runs several calls for innovation each year, offering startups the opportunity to collaborate with corporate partners.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups with next-gen solutions talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Corporate partnerships, mentorship, and access to innovation resources talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Application details can be found on the Combient Foundry website.
17. EIT Food & Beyond
EIT Food & Beyond is part of the European EIT FAN network and focuses on the food and related industries. Based in Helsinki and Espoo, the accelerator supports startups working on innovative food solutions.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups in the food and related sectors talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, investor connections, and industry-specific guidance talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply through EIT Food & Beyond’s website.
18. Haaga-Helia Startup School
The Haaga-Helia Startup School is an incubator based at Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences. It offers a platform for students to develop and launch their business ideas with the support of mentors and industry experts.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Students of Haaga-Helia University talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, access to university resources, and community support talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted via Haaga-Helia Startup School’s website.
19. Helsinki Education Hub
The Helsinki Education Hub is a no-cost incubator and network for edtech startups. Supported by the City of Helsinki, the hub offers mentoring, access to industry experts, and opportunities for collaboration within the education sector.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Edtech startups talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, industry partnerships, and access to resources talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications can be submitted through Helsinki Education Hub’s website.
20. Health Incubator Helsinki
Health Incubator Helsinki focuses on nurturing health-related startups, offering them a no-cost incubation program. Participants gain access to mentorship, industry networks, and office facilities, helping them scale their businesses.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Health and medtech startups talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, office space, and access to healthcare experts talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply via Health Incubator Helsinki’s official website.
21. Founder institute Helsinki
Part of the global Founder Institute network, Founder Institute Helsinki offers a structured accelerator program to startups, helping them grow through a combination of mentorship, networking, and educational resources. Their acceleration program runs on a monthly fee basis.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups at various stages, from ideation to growth talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, educational resources, and networking opportunities talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply through Founder Institute Helsinki’s website.
22. Urban Tech Helsinki
Urban Tech Helsinki is a free incubator program focused on clean and sustainable urban solutions. The incubator helps startups scale their ideas into viable businesses that address the challenges of modern urban living, offering a wealth of mentorship and industry expertise.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups with a focus on clean and sustainable urban solutions talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, networking, and access to city resources talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Ongoing talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply through the Urban Tech Helsinki website.
23. Sampo Accelerator
Sampo Accelerator offers a no-equity program that operates three times a year, based in Espoo. Startups only make a contribution to the program if they achieve significant success. The program provides mentorship and resources to help startups scale effectively.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Startups with scalable solutions, operating in various sectors talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, resources, and a no-equity contribution system talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Typically 8 weeks, with 3 programs annually talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted year-round through Sampo Accelerator’s website.
24. Helsinki Think Company – Mutiny
Mutiny is an intensive 6-week accelerator offered by Helsinki Think Company. It focuses on addressing real-world challenges, bringing together participants from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on innovative solutions. The program includes workshops and culminates in a final pitching event.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups or individuals with ideas that address real-world challenges talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Workshops, mentorship, and networking talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
6 weeks talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply via Helsinki Think Company’s website.
25. Venture Development Finland – Central Finland Frowth Accelerator
This accelerator program selects five growth companies and ten startups annually, offering tailored guidance to support their development phase. The program includes sales development, customer acquisition, and international market expansion support.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Growth-stage startups and companies talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Personalized mentorship, sales development, and internationalization support talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
12-24 months talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Apply via Venture Development Finland’s official website.
26. Y4 Works Accelerator
Y4 Works Accelerator is a business incubation program that guides and supports aspiring entrepreneurs in Finland. Through comprehensive workshops, mentorship, and business development tools, the accelerator helps startups achieve product-market fit and prepare for growth.
1. Eligibility Criteria:
Early-stage startups across industries talk to Susan…
2. Funding & Resources:
Mentorship, workshops, and access to resources talk to Susan…
3. Program Duration:
Varies talk to Susan…
4. Application:
Applications are accepted via Y4 Works’ official website.
Each of these incubators and accelerators offers unique opportunities for startups to grow and scale their businesses, providing essential resources, mentoring, and networking opportunities to ensure long-term success.