Portrait of a happy woman riding the train in the Finland while using her phone and looking through … More the window

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Finland is looking for 10-15 foreign innovators to explore the Finnish deep tech ecosystem. By combining business opportunities with cultural immersion, the 90 Day Finn program offers participants a unique chance to explore Helsinki as a potential base for their ventures or to explore expansion opportunities. As the happiest country in the world, Finland is leading the Nordics in attracting international talent to foster innovation.

The 90 Day Finn Program, organized by Helsinki Partners, provides decision-makers in deep tech companies, startups, and scale-ups with an intensive immersion into Helsinki’s thriving business ecosystem. Over a three-week or optional 90-day period, participants gain access to exclusive networking events, tailored business consultancy, and visits to some of the most innovative companies in the Nordics. The program also introduces participants to Finnish culture, including attending saunas and foraging mushrooms and berries in the forest.

The program’s mission is to equip innovators with in-depth knowledge of Finland’s deep tech ecosystem and culture through tailored experiences. In that way, they have the opportunity to explore market opportunities and expansion strategies in Europe. The program is particularly attractive for companies seeking to establish operations in the region, leveraging Helsinki’s strategic location and deep tech infrastructure.

Why Helsinki?

Helsinki is increasingly recognized as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship. According to Helsinki Partners, the city boasts one of Europe’s most vibrant startup ecosystems, home to over 2,200 startups with a combined enterprise value exceeding $31 billion. It is also a hotspot for deep tech innovation, with startups in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, cybersecurity, and sustainable technologies thriving due to robust public-private partnerships and academic support.

Finland’s Business Advantages
Access to Talent

Nearly 50% of working-age residents in Helsinki hold university degrees. Institutions like the University of Helsinki and Aalto University are at the forefront of deep tech with fully-equipped research facilities and educational programs that foster a highly skilled workforce.

Innovation Infrastructure

Finland is home to Europe’s largest private AI lab, Silo AI, as well as advanced quantum research facilities that house LUMI, a pan-European supercomputer.

Sustainability Leadership

According to the Global Destination Sustainability Index, Finland ranks as the world’s most sustainable travel destination and aims for carbon neutrality by 2030. This focus attracts cleantech startups and sustainability-driven ventures.

90 Day Finn Success Stories

The program has already produced notable success stories. For instance, Leo Capital—a Singaporean venture capital firm—established its European headquarters in Helsinki after participating in the program. The firm also launched a Nordic-focused €25 million fund. Other alumni have founded companies or made significant investments in Finnish startups, underscoring Helsinki’s appeal as a launchpad for international growth.

Participants frequently praise Finland’s egalitarian business culture and efficient decision-making processes. Unlike competitive startup hubs elsewhere, Helsinki fosters collaboration through trust and openness. This approach accelerates innovation cycles while ensuring long-term partnerships are built on reliability.

90 Day Finns business visit at Kone

Helsinki Partners
Why Innovators Consider Finland

Finland offers an unparalleled combination of technical excellence, sustainability leadership, and quality of life. As the happiest country in the world for seven consecutive years, it provides an environment conducive to creativity and productivity. With its emphasis on ethical AI development, quantum breakthroughs, and cleantech solutions, Helsinki stands out as a city where innovation meets impact.

The 90 Day Finn Program provides an opportunity to test-drive life and building a venture in one of one of Europe’s most dynamic ecosystems. For innovators seeking expansion into Europe or looking to collaborate on deep tech technologies, Helsinki offers the perfect blend of ambition and community.

Applications for the 2025 edition are open until March 31, 2025. Selected participants will undergo remote onboarding before arriving in Helsinki for an intensive three-week immersion starting August 18. An optional extension period allows participants to deepen connections and explore further opportunities until November.

The author participated in the 90 Day Finn program in 2023.