Deadline: 31-May-23
Startup Call Turku invites international startups to develop their businesses in Southwest Finland! Teams participate in an intensive 3-month programme highlighting the advantages provided by Turku startup ecosystem.
It includes participation in the BusinessUp accelerator programme (including pitching to investors), participation in startup and networking events, use of co-working space with access to Wi-Fi, and support for arranging accommodation in Turku, all free of charge.
The programme provides an opportunity to try out ground-breaking ideas that might be difficult, or even impossible, to implement without a strong support network.
About the Programme 2023
- Welcome Event
- The programme starts with a Welcome Event at the Turku City Hall. They equip you with info on integration services that are offered by the International House Turku and introduce you to the lovely City of Turku and its surroundings. The event offers a splendid opportunity for networking and starting new friendships!
- Werstas and SparkUp Tour
- During the Werstas and SparkUp Tour they help you get settled into your new favourite co-working space at the Werstas premises and get you acquainted with the SparkUp community.
- Establishing a Company in Finland Workshop
- During the workshop they help you with the practicalities on how to establish a company in Finland. They also offer digital tools on how to start a business in Finland
- After founding your company in Finland you can benefit from the versatile services of the Finnish startup ecosystem. You can, for example, apply for Business Finland’s Tempo funding.
- Accelerator Programmes and Mentoring
- During the Startup Call Turku programme you participate in the BusinessUp accelerator programme. During the programme, you have a dedicated mentor. At the end of the accelerator programme you pitch to a group of investors.
- Participation in the SLUSH Startup Event
- SLUSH is the world’s leading startup and tech event held annually in Helsinki, Finland. SLUSH facilitates meetings between the founders of startups and investors such as venture capitalists, accomplished with events such as matchmaking and pitching competitions. For Startup Call participants, participation is free at the event.
BusinessUp
- BusinessUp is an intensive program that offers the mentorship, education, and networking necessary to jump-start growth. The program is open to startup companies, teams, and applicants with a viable business idea. You will get the best mentors, training, and guidance you need to start and grow your business. The program period is from September 23rd to November 22nd and will be in English. Startup Call winner teams will participate in the program together with the local Finnish/international teams.
The BusinessUp program will coach you in developing the following:
- Market analysis to know your customers and competitors
- Lean Canvas and Value Proposition Canvas to crystallize your idea
- Financial calculations to verify your business plan
- Elevator Pitches to convince customers, partners, and/or investors
Benefits
- What costs are covered by them?
- Startup Call program, including participation in the BusinessUp program
- Use of a co-working space with Wi-Fi
- Startup and networking events (e.g. SLUSH Startup Event)
- Support for arranging accommodation in Turku
- What you’ll get:
- Systematic coaching to build your business idea further
- Coaches’ and mentors’ support, plus peer support and new networks
- Possibility to make international contacts, find new connections and recruit talents to your team
- Group Meetings twice a week from 4 PM to 7 PM
Eligibility Criteria
- They are looking for startup teams consisting of 1–3 founders with versatile expertise, who are planning to move to Finland.
- The team should have:
- An intention of founding a growth company in Finland
- An innovative business plan
- Commitment to complete the BusinessUp accelerator program (23rd Sep.- 22nd Nov. 2023)
- Secure financial means for your own living expenses
For more information, visit Turku Business Region.