1. A free education for all

Finland’s school system is among the best in the world. Finland, firmly committed to equality, does not have schools selecting students, conducting formal entrance exams, or organising classes based on students’ abilities. The excellent education is also completely free, covering everything from early childhood to secondary school.

The result of this is children who excel in several areas and young adults who are well-equipped to enter the world of work by the time they graduate school.

2. World-class universities

Helsinki is home to several outstanding schools for higher education including the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, the University of Arts Helsinki, Hanken School of Economics, Haaga-Helia, Metropolia, Diak, Humak, and Arcada. Each offers unique opportunities for students to shine. Tuition is free for students from EU and EEA countries or Switzerland, while international students from other regions pay fees ranging from 8,000 to 20,000 euros depending on the program.

Notable highlights about Helsinki’s universities include the University of Helsinki, which counts several presidents and four Nobel laureates among its alumni. Aalto University, specialising in science, art, technology, and business, has been described by Vogue as the “central St. Martins of the Nordics”. Meanwhile, Hanken School of Economics is one of the oldest business schools in the Nordic region.
What sets Finnish higher education apart is its accessibility: you are able to study in English! All the institutions mentioned offer a wide range of programs entirely in English, and many also provide Finnish language courses.

3. Thriving start-up scene

Finland has started to gain an international reputation for its startups in recent years and unsurprisingly Helsinki is where most of Finland’s startups are based. The city is home to a bunch of organisations and programmes, like Maria 01, a community space for ambitious tech startups, which is currently home to over 180 start-ups. Maria01 is founded on the belief that establishing connections allows tech teams to move faster and avoid making mistakes. But when setbacks happen, the community is there to help pick up the pieces.
Helsinki is also the home to Europe’s biggest startup event, Slush. This annual gathering draws hundreds of industry experts and investors to Finland. In 2024, Slush attracted 13,000 attendees, filling the city with energy and excitement.

4. Space for new ideas

Helsinki is the one to support you if you are ready to turn your business ideas into reality. Business Helsinki offers free, confidential business advice, including one-on-one counselling from industry experts who guide individuals through finalising a business plan. Formerly known as NewCo Helsinki, now a part of Business Helsinki, has led to 20,000 companies being set up.

Additionally, Helsinki Partners offer free services to assist international businesses in expanding to Helsinki, support for international venture capital and limited partner investors looking to establish a presence in the New Nordics, and guidance for congress organisers planning meetings or conventions in the city.

5. Established examples to follow

Some of the world’s most famous companies, such as Nokia and Supercell, originated in the Helsinki Metropolitan area. Another success story from the region is Rovio, the creator of Angry Birds. Rovio’s journey wasn’t without its challenges as they were on the verge of bankruptcy and created a total of 51 games before Angry Birds became an international success. Their persistence ultimately paid off, and today they are shaping the future of gaming with their inclusive gaming playbook.

6. Support to lean back on

The path to success can be bumpy, but Helsinki wants to be there to support when locals are taking risks.

The city provides comprehensive employment services, including advice, guidance and training for anyone seeking work. Additionally, residents have access to free financial and debt counselling services, so when challenges arise, the city is there to help you.

7. Easy living to achieve your dreams

In Helsinki, life runs smoothly. Public transport is reliable, the education is free and everyone is covered by the city’s public healthcare system. These essentials free up time to focus on pursuing your dreams – whether you are starting a business, like Yousician and HEI Schools have done in recent years, or exploring where your creativity takes you.

The important thing is to take the leap of faith and Helsinki does everything it can to make it possible. Here you have freedom to fail and an opportunity to succeed.