The Top 20 Startup Competitions in Finland You Should Enter
The Top 20 Startup Competitions in Finland You Should Enter
Finland’s startup ecosystem is thriving, and its vibrant community of entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators makes it an exciting place to launch and grow a new business. Whether you're looking for funding, networking opportunities, or a platform to showcase your innovation, startup competitions are a great way to gain traction and make valuable connections. Here’s a curated list of the top 20 startup competitions in Finland that you should consider entering.
1. Slush 2024
What it is: One of Europe’s largest startup events, Slush brings together startups, investors, and industry leaders from around the world.
Why enter: Gain international visibility, network with top investors, and potentially secure funding and partnerships.
Website: Slush
2. Helsinki Business Hub Startup Competition
What it is: A competition organized by Helsinki Business Hub, aimed at supporting startups looking to establish a presence in Helsinki.
Why enter: Opportunity to showcase your startup to local investors and industry experts, and receive support for setting up operations in Helsinki.
3. Finlandia Prize for Design
What it is: Although primarily focused on design, this competition is ideal for startups with innovative design solutions.
Why enter: Highlight your design-led innovations, gain national recognition, and connect with the Finnish design community.
4. Startup Saimaa
What it is: A regional startup competition in Eastern Finland aimed at supporting emerging businesses in the Saimaa region.
Why enter: Access regional support, local networks, and opportunities for growth in the Saimaa area.
5. Tekes Startup Grant Competition
What it is: Organized by Business Finland (formerly Tekes), this competition provides grants and support to innovative startups.
Why enter: Secure financial support and expert guidance from Business Finland, helping you scale your startup.
6. The Aalto Venture Garage Startup Challenge
What it is: A competition hosted by Aalto University’s Venture Garage, focusing on early-stage startups and entrepreneurs.
Why enter: Gain access to a network of mentors and investors, and receive support from Aalto University’s entrepreneurial community.
7. Fennia Prize
What it is: A competition that celebrates innovation in design, including product and service design.
Why enter: Showcase your design innovation, receive recognition, and connect with the Finnish design and business community.
8. Venture Cup Finland
What it is: One of Finland’s largest startup competitions, offering multiple categories and significant prizes.
Why enter: Access to a broad network of investors, mentors, and business development resources.
9. The Arctic15 Startup Competition
What it is: A major Nordic startup event featuring a competition that highlights innovative startups from the Arctic region.
Why enter: Gain exposure to a Nordic audience, network with investors and other startups, and participate in a high-profile event.
10. StartUp Now
What it is: A competition aimed at supporting Finnish startups in their early stages.
Why enter: Opportunity to present your startup to a panel of experts and gain support for your next growth phase.
11. Sparklab Helsinki
What it is: A startup accelerator that hosts competitions and pitch events for startups across various stages.
Why enter: Access mentorship, investment opportunities, and resources to accelerate your startup’s growth.
12. The Finnish Startup Award
What it is: An award recognizing outstanding startups across different sectors in Finland.
Why enter: Gain national recognition, connect with industry leaders, and receive valuable feedback on your startup.
13. Healthtech Nordic Startup Competition
What it is: A competition focusing on startups in the healthtech sector within the Nordic region.
Why enter: Showcase your healthtech innovations, connect with industry experts, and explore funding opportunities.
14. EnergyHack
What it is: A competition focused on startups and ideas that address challenges in the energy sector.
Why enter: Gain exposure for your energy innovations, connect with experts and investors, and contribute to sustainable energy solutions.
15. Business Angels Finland Pitch Night
What it is: A pitch competition organized by Business Angels Finland, providing startups with a platform to present to potential investors.
Why enter: Opportunity to pitch to a network of angel investors and receive feedback and potential funding.
16. EIT Digital Challenge
What it is: A competition by EIT Digital focusing on deep tech and digital innovation startups.
Why enter: Access to a European network of investors and industry experts, and opportunities to scale your digital innovations.
Website: EIT Digital Challenge
17. Nordic Startup Awards
What it is: A regional competition recognizing the best startups across the Nordic countries.
Why enter: Gain recognition across the Nordic region, connect with peers and investors, and enhance your startup’s visibility.
Website: Nordic Startup Awards
18. Future of Health Summit
What it is: A summit and competition focusing on startups in the healthcare sector.
Why enter: Opportunity to showcase health innovations, connect with healthcare professionals, and explore new business opportunities.
19. Pioneers Challenge Finland
What it is: A competition within the Pioneers Challenge series, focusing on startups in Finland with groundbreaking technologies.
Why enter: Network with international investors, gain exposure for your technology, and potentially secure partnerships.
20. Startup Festival Helsinki
What it is: A startup festival featuring pitch competitions and networking opportunities for startups in Helsinki.
Why enter: Present your startup to a diverse audience, connect with potential partners and investors, and participate in a dynamic startup event.
Conclusion
Entering startup competitions in Finland is an excellent way to gain exposure, access valuable resources, and connect with key stakeholders in the startup ecosystem. From national awards and regional challenges to sector-specific contests and global platforms, these competitions offer opportunities to showcase your innovation and propel your startup to new heights. So gear up, refine your pitch, and take advantage of these exciting opportunities in 2024. Best of luck on your entrepreneurial journey!
