Startup Joensuu
Startup Joensuu is a dynamic startup ecosystem in Eastern Finland connecting founders, investors and companies. The network includes more than 70 startups and growth-oriented organizations, creating a strong environment for building and scaling new businesses.
Startups benefit from mentoring, growth programs and access to regional and international funding networks. Business Joensuu supports startups and investors with tailored advisory, funding guidance, soft landing services and connections to partners, talent and research organisations.
Strong local expertise in ICT, photonics and sustainable technologies together with close cooperation with universities and industry creates real opportunities for innovation and growth.
Whether you are launching a startup, looking for investment opportunities or seeking innovation partnerships, Startup Joensuu offers a supportive environment where ideas turn into scalable companies.
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Susicorn Startup CompetitionSusicorn is an international startup competition held in Joensuu that brings together promising early-stage startups, investors and industry leaders. The event gives founders a platform to present their ideas, gain visibility and build connections that support funding, growth and international expansion.» -
SOHJO Innovation and Business EventSohjo is an annual startup and business event in Joensuu that gathers startups, companies, investors and innovators to explore new technologies, ideas and partnerships. Through inspiring talks and networking opportunities, the event helps create new collaborations and business opportunities.» -
Sohjo HACKS Hackathon for new ideasSohjo HACKS is a fast-paced hackathon where developers, designers and innovators collaborate to solve real-world challenges and build new digital solutions. Participants work in teams to develop prototypes, test ideas and create concepts that can grow into future startups or new business innovations.
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Whether you're nesting a brilliant business idea, mapping funding options, have your eye on international markets or your business is ready to take a big leap of growth, we've got you!
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(Startup Fund Joensuu)
North Karelia Growth Fund II
Startup Fund Joensuu has concluded. North Karelia Growth Fund II is currently being established — more information coming soon. -
RDI connections
Startups Powered by Strong Industry Clusters
Joensuu’s key industries offer startups real opportunities to develop and scale new solutions. Strong sectors such as forest bioeconomy, photonics, digital border security, green transition technologies, mineral economy and advanced manufacturing provide access to research, industry partners and global markets.
Close cooperation with companies and universities helps startups test ideas, build partnerships and grow faster.
City of Joensuu
Startup Joensuu and the City of Joensuu work together to strengthen the region’s startup ecosystem and create new opportunities for growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Through this partnership, startups gain access to networks, expertise, events, and support services that help them develop their businesses, attract talent, and scale internationally. Together, we are building Joensuu into an attractive environment for entrepreneurs, investors, and innovative companies.
Read more: City of Joensuu
Redstone
Startup Joensuu and Redstone work together to support ambitious startups in their growth journey. Through the partnership, startups gain access to investor expertise, funding opportunities, strategic guidance, and valuable networks that help accelerate business development and international growth. Together, Startup Joensuu and Redstone strengthen the connections between innovative companies and the investment community.
Read more: Redstone
Karelia University of Applied Sciences
Startup Joensuu and Karelia University of Applied Sciences work together to strengthen entrepreneurship, innovation, and startup growth in the region. The partnership connects students, researchers, and entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for new business ideas, practical collaboration, talent development, and the commercialization of innovations. Together, we help build a vibrant startup ecosystem that supports sustainable growth and future business success.
Read more: Karelia University of Applied Sciences
University of Eastern Finland (UEF)
Startup Joensuu and the University of Eastern Finland work together to transform research, expertise, and innovation into new business opportunities. The partnership connects students, researchers, and startups, supporting entrepreneurship, commercialization, talent development, and the creation of growth-oriented companies. Together, we strengthen the region’s innovation ecosystem and help build internationally competitive businesses from Joensuu.
Read more: University of Eastern Finland (UEF)
North Karelia Chamber of Commerce
Startup Joensuu and the North Karelia Chamber of Commerce work together to strengthen the region’s startup ecosystem by connecting growth-oriented companies with business networks, expertise and new opportunities. The partnership supports entrepreneurship, innovation and international growth by creating valuable connections between startups, established businesses and industry leaders. Through joint events, networking opportunities and knowledge sharing, the collaboration helps startups build relationships, gain visibility and accelerate their growth.
The partnership combines Startup Joensuu’s entrepreneurial community with the Chamber’s extensive business network, creating stronger opportunities for companies to grow and succeed in North Karelia and beyond.
Read more: North Karelia Chamber of Commerce
North Karelia Entrepreneurs Association
Startup Joensuu and North Karelia Entrepreneurs work together to support entrepreneurship, startup growth and business development across the region. The partnership connects startups with experienced entrepreneurs, peer networks, events and practical business expertise that help companies grow and succeed. Together, we strengthen the entrepreneurial community in North Karelia and create new opportunities for innovation, collaboration and sustainable business growth.
Read more: North Karelia Entrepreneurs Association
Joensuu Entrepreneurship Society (JoES)
Startup Joensuu and Joensuu Entrepreneurship Society (Joensuu ES) work together to inspire entrepreneurship, support startup creation and strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial community. The partnership connects students, aspiring entrepreneurs and startups with events, networks, mentoring and opportunities to develop new ideas into successful businesses. Together, we foster an entrepreneurial mindset and help build the next generation of growth companies in Joensuu.
Read more: Joensuu Entrepreneurship Society (JoES)
Related articles
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Is Eastern Finland like Texas in the United States – a frontier region where strong industry, the energy sector and rapidly growing technology meet? This is a place where globally significant... -
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Mikko Järvilehto Senior Business Advisor, R&D and Start-Ups
Services for investing and relocating companies
Kari Pulkkinen Fund Manager & Growth Coach
Start-up Fund Joensuu, corporate financing, business development, development of board work
Pinja Konttinen Business Specialist (Joensuu)
Services for startups and new entrepreneurs

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