University of Helsinki Fuels Future Growth with Launch of 80+ Innovative Startups

University of Helsinki Fuels Future Growth with Launch of 80+ Innovative Startups

(IN BRIEF) The University of Helsinki has announced that its incubator programs have successfully launched more than 80 startups, highlighting the institution’s dedication to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. These startups, which cover a spectrum of industries such as technology, digital services, life sciences, and sustainable solutions, benefit from extensive support—including expert guidance, state-of-the-art research facilities, and strong industry networking opportunities. This strategic support system enables academic research to be effectively transformed into commercial success, thus contributing significantly to economic growth and job creation. University officials stress that the achievement not only reinforces the importance of academic-industry collaboration but also positions the University of Helsinki as a key driver in developing a vibrant, sustainable innovation ecosystem that addresses global challenges.

(PRESS RELEASE) HELSINKI, 17-Mar-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Over the past little more than three years, the University of Helsinki’s incubators have demonstrated their tremendous potential by fostering a range of promising innovations. Reflecting this success, the City of Helsinki has contributed an additional funding boost of over €2 million to further support these initiatives.

Imagine if we could offer a breakthrough treatment for chronic pain, prevent catastrophic oil spills at sea, or enhance the taste of plant-based foods with a revolutionary mushroom powder – these are just a few examples of the innovations that have emerged from the University’s dynamic business incubators. In this relatively short period, more than 432 teams have honed their ideas within the incubators and pre-incubators, and over 80 startups have successfully stepped into the marketplace. Impressively, half of these ventures have managed to secure funding, cumulatively raising approximately €15 million.

“The results are impressive. We’re happy that the incubator operations launched with the city have got off to a good start,” remarked Jouni Hirvonen, the University of Helsinki’s Vice-Rector for Innovation. These startups have the potential to transform research and education into practical solutions that offer global benefits – creating new jobs, attracting investments, and advancing the commercialization of innovative technologies, while also contributing to improvements in public education and health services.

The University’s new initiative aimed at developing entrepreneurial skills has quickly gained international recognition. Irina Blomqvist, head of the Helsinki Incubators, noted that international visitors often arrive specifically to learn more about these programs. “It’s clear that we’re an interesting player in the European scene,” she affirmed, adding that the incubators have drawn a diverse range of applicants – from students and researchers to seasoned serial entrepreneurs. Initially, many applications came from outside the University, including from international professionals who saw entrepreneurship as a promising career opportunity. Over time, however, more members of the University community have embraced the program, with over 50% of current participants now being affiliated with the institution. “Our reputation has grown considerably,” Blomqvist stated.

One such success story is that of Max Ahonen, a chemistry student who joined the program rather impulsively but quickly found his footing. Today, he is the founder of Dora Health, a startup that manufactures dog health monitoring equipment and is scheduled to launch its first products in early 2026. “We wish to help both pet owners and vets make better decisions,” Ahonen explained. Reflecting on his journey, he encourages anyone considering entrepreneurship, remarking, “There’s no such thing as the perfect time to start.”

The incubators also provide the invaluable support of a network of 140 business professionals who guide participants in connecting with investors and refining their business models. Among these mentors is Aline de Santa Izabel, the City of Helsinki’s Networks and Ecosystems Manager, who has extensive experience as both a researcher and a startup founder. “As a mentor, my goal is to pay forward the incredible support I’ve received in my own journey. I want to empower others to push boundaries, explore new ideas, and grow with the confidence that they have a network of experts behind them,” she said. Specializing in deep-tech startups, Santa Izabel has already advised three University teams, emphasizing that the incubator experience is about growth, resilience, and exploring new possibilities—even if a startup does not ultimately succeed.

Looking ahead, the future for the University’s incubators appears bright. The City of Helsinki has recently allocated an additional €2.4 million for the period 2025–2027, further solidifying its commitment to building a vibrant startup community grounded in excellence. “It’s great that the city wishes to continue collaborating with us in building a vibrant startup community based on excellence,” says Blomqvist. The next phase of the initiative aims to help the participating teams scale their operations globally by forging connections with international innovation ecosystems and potentially tapping into supplementary EU funding. The University also plans to extend support to alumni teams and introduce entrepreneurship MOOCs, reinforcing its confidence that the innovation culture on its campuses will only continue to grow stronger in the coming years.

Media Contact:

Mikael Malmivaara
Specialist
Communications and Community Relations
mikael.malmivaara@helsinki.fi
+358294121204

SOURCE: University of Helsinki