SOHJO Business Event - Shaping the Luminous Future

March 26–27, 2026
Venue: Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel, Joensuu

Innovation is lighting up Joensuu

SOHJO is Eastern Finland’s biggest business event, bringing together startups, companies, investors and top speakers – along with the creative minds shaping the next wave of growth.

At SOHJO 2026, the iconic Nasdaq Closing Bell will ring in Joensuu — a rare moment in the Nordics.

Why you should be at SOHJO?

Experience SOHJO in Joensuu – a luminous spark you won’t find anywhere else.
Powered by Business Joensuu.

#SOHJO #Susicorn @businessjoensuu

Get your Ticket

SOHJO Business Event 2025 | Business Joensuu

Photos - The Glow of SOHJO 2026

Photos from SOHJO 2026 will be continuously uploaded by our official photographers during the event and after it. Explore the gallery and download your favourite moments.

Image Usage

Images in photographer Harri Säynevirta’s gallery may only be used in social media posts related to the SOHJO 2026 event. If you are interested in purchasing usage rights for Harri Säynevirta’s photos, please contact:
harri@saynevirta.fi

When contacting, please include:

Which image(s) you would like to license
The intended use (e.g. publication, marketing, personal use)
Any additional requests or questions.

Relive the spark and share the experience!

International Festival of Business, Innovation and Creativity

SOHJO 2026 Business Event brings together inspiring keynotes, expert panels, hands-on workshops and cross-sector collaboration from around the world.

SOHJO is Eastern Finland’s boldest stage for startups, innovation, technology and creativity, bringing together companies, investors and experts to spark new business, partnerships and growth - filled with pure business festival spirit.

Reflecting the theme Luminous, discussions explore photonics and light-based technologies, alongside emerging markets such as digital border security and dual-use technologies, AI and robotics, startup growth and capital markets, and the role of creativity in innovation and regional development.

The primary language of the festival will be English.
Dress code: Business Festival

SOHJO Speakers

Stacy K. Vaughn

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Erja Retzén

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Thomas Mathews

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Peter Vesterbacka

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Irene Viinikkala

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Sanna Rautio

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Tiina Laisi-Puheloinen

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Arska & Dolly

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Matti Tikanmäki

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Ronny Eriksson

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Kari Kola

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Jiri Jormakka

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Ina Mikkola

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Taavi Kuisma

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Petri Lauronen

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Kaisa Rönkkö

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Hermanni Hakalisto

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Kaj Hagros

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Minna Hendolin

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Joonas Karvinen

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Tomi Haring

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Susicorn Startup Competition

Susicorn is where bold, future-shaping business ideas and startup innovations compete for the Brightest Susicorn Award, a launchpad for growth from the greater Joensuu region to the world, and the attention of investors and partners.

Companies, startups, spinoffs, students, and innovation- and business-minded individuals and teams from around the world are invited to submit their ideas between January 1 and 31, 2026.

The Susicorn final - Pitch for the Brightest Susicorn - will take place at SOHJO on March 27, 2026, where six finalists will pitch their innovations live on stage to the Susicorn jury and audience.

SOHJO FINAL MOMENT Ticket €170 + VAT 25,5%

From investors and business innovators to public-sector leaders, educators, and curious minds — SOHJO is for everyone shaping the future.

SOHJO’s speakers and full program are now out!

These SOHJO FINAL MOMENT Tickets are your chance to secure your spot at Eastern Finland’s most exciting business event - be quick and join SOHJO in the last minute!

Only a limited number of SOHJO FINAL MOMENT Tickets are available at price of €170 + VAT 25.5%

SOHJO event ticket includes:

Access to the entire SOHJO program on March 26–27, 2026
Early access to the Eventos matchmaking and networking platform – book the best meeting slots with the most interesting SOHJO attendees in advance.
Lunch on SOHJO Friday, March 27
Non-stop coffee & tea throughout both event days