Kick-start your startup
Ready. Set. Startup. Your Helsinki business adventure awaits.
Set up your business in Finland and enter the European market through the Nordics – the easy way. Helsinki is bursting with entrepreneurial energy, offering everything from expert Business Advisors to a vibrant network of investors, accelerators, and peers who share your passion for innovation. Whether you’re searching for the right connections or hands-on support, we’ll help you navigate this city’s buzzing startup ecosystem and introduce you to key players who can turn your big idea into a global success story.
Helsinki startup facts
€204M VC investment raised in H1 2023 YTD
Helsinki startups have raised €204M in 2023 so far.
30% Of VC investment since 2022 was raised by deep tech startups
Deep tech startups also make up 26% of local jobs.
23K Jobs abroad created by Helsinki startups
Helsinki startups create another 23K jobs globally.
€48B Helsinki startups worth
Helsinki startups are worth €48B, up 2.9x since 2018. Helsinki ranks third by value of Nordic
ecosystems.
7 Steps to soft-land in Helsinki
1. Book a free counselling session with Business Helsinki
They’ll walk you through the Finnish business environment, legal requirements, and help refine your business plan for local conditions.
2. Sort Out Immigration (If Non-EU/EEA)
Finnish Startup Permit (via Business Finland + Migri) if you’re founding a high-growth startup. Alternatively, Work Permit (Specialist or Entrepreneur) if you don’t qualify for the Startup Permit.
3. Choose Your Legal Form
Limited Liability Company (Oy) is most common for startups. Branch Office if you already have a legal entity outside Finland. Sole Trader (toiminimi) typically for freelancers/consultants. Business Helsinki can help identify what suits you best.
4. Open a bank account
Common banks: Nordea, OP, Danske Bank. You’ll need your company’s registration documents, ID, and often a business plan or pitch deck.
5. Arrange Tax & Payroll
Register for VAT and any employer obligations at Vero. If hiring employees, you must manage Finnish pension (TyEL) and insurance contributions.
7. Find Office or Co-working Space
In Helsinki, check:Maria 01 – major startup hub. Epicenter – coworking & innovation community. Or ask Business Helsinki for a directory of options.
Bonus: Build Your Network
Startup events & meet-ups: Slush, Arctic15, local gatherings at Maria 01. Join local communities: Look for Finnish startup Slack groups, LinkedIn groups, or meet-ups focusing on your industry.
