Is Helsinki a Good Place to Launch a Startup?

Where you start your company still matters – but sticking too closely to one location might limit what you’re able to build. In today’s startup landscape, geography shapes your path – but it doesn’t have to define your potential.

Helsinki has emerged as a strong hub for entrepreneurship, offering access to funding, talent, and infrastructure. But with growing competition, rigid local programmes, and support often reserved for the most polished startups, relying solely on what’s nearby can slow you down – or hold you back.

In this article, we’ll explore what Helsinki gets right – and where founders often run into friction. We’ll also show how EWOR offers an alternative: a global, remote-first platform that gives you access to funding, mentorship, and community – no matter where you’re based.

1. Access to Funding in Helsinki

Funding is one of the most critical ingredients in building a successful startup – and Helsinki offers a growing ecosystem of support. From venture capital firms to government grants and angel investors, founders in this region have several pathways to raise capital and gain early traction.

Helsinki's early-stage funding scene is active, supported by a mix of players. Notable VC firms with a focus on early-stage investments include Maki.vc, Icebreaker.vc, and Lifeline Ventures. Government support is available through Business Finland, which offers grants like the Young Innovative Company funding and Tempo funding aimed at helping startups develop and internationalize. Angel investors are also seeking opportunities, with the Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN) being a key network. Despite this, challenges exist. While early-stage funding is present, there's a recognized gap in growth-stage funding, often leading companies to seek later-stage investment from abroad. Some reports in early 2025 indicated temporary suspensions or shortening of government startup grants in certain municipal areas due to budget shortages, though this was viewed as an early transition issue. Overall, while the ecosystem is resilient and attracting foreign capital, particularly in deep tech, securing larger follow-on rounds domestically remains a hurdle.

A More Flexible Path Forward

In the wake of these challenges, founders don’t have to rely solely on local funding options. EWOR offers a more flexible path – providing up to €500,000 in early-stage capital But EWOR is more than a cheque. Our capital comes bundled with personalised support, investor-ready storytelling, and access to a network of over 400 active European investors – many of whom regularly participate in our Grand Pitch events. On average, EWOR fellows who complete the programme and pitch go on to raise €2 million in follow-on funding – over 10x more than founders from comparable European initiatives.

2. Innovation and Startup Culture  

Helsinki has become a centre of innovation, with numerous tech hubs, coworking spaces, and accelerators that foster creativity and new ideas. The local startup culture is vibrant, with a growing community of entrepreneurs working together to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Helsinki boasts a dynamic startup and innovation culture with a strong emphasis on technology and design. The city is home to numerous coworking spaces like Maria 01, Epicenter, and Helsinki Think Company, fostering a collaborative environment. A variety of tech events and meetups occur regularly, including major events like Slush, attracting global attention and investment. Entrepreneurial activity is high, supported by a network of accelerators and incubators such as Kiuas, Health Incubator Helsinki, and Business Helsinki Accelerator. While there are competitive programs, early-stage founders can receive personalised support through initiatives like Business Helsinki Accelerator's one-on-one coaching and tailored development programs, and incubators offering mentoring and workshops. The ecosystem supports ventures from idea stage through various programs and access to investors.

For many entrepreneurs, the energy and resources available in Helsinki can provide the ideal environment to test new ideas and gain early traction. The collaborative atmosphere allows founders to connect with fellow innovators and build networks that can help their startups grow.

While the local startup culture is vibrant, the support founders actually receive can be hit or miss. VCs might offer funding but little time. Angel investors often give advice, but it’s scattered and inconsistent. What’s more, many accelerators rely on a one-size-fits-all model that doesn’t reflect the needs of exceptional founders. In fast-moving, competitive ecosystems like Helsinki, standing out is hard enough – getting the right kind of support shouldn’t be.

The Alternative to Cookie-Cutter Programmes

Finding a programme that truly adapts to your journey, not the other way around, is rare. However, EWOR offers the kind of depth and flexibility that many local programmes simply can’t match. Instead of following a fixed curriculum, our fellowships are modular and tailored – giving you the right support at the right time, based on where you are in your journey.

But the real strength of EWOR goes beyond structure. Fellows often describe the community as the most unexpected – and valuable – part of the experience. As some have put it: “The real magic lies in the community: the kind of conversations, insights, and connections that lead not only to breakthroughs – but to lasting friendships with some of the most fascinating people they’ve ever met”.

3. Talent and Workforce Availability

One of the greatest assets of launching a startup in Helsinki is access to a skilled and diverse talent pool. With universities producing top-tier graduates in technology, business, and other fields, startups can tap into a wealth of expertise to help grow their teams.

Helsinki offers a strong talent pool for startups, supported by key educational institutions like Aalto University and the University of Helsinki, which contribute significantly to the tech talent base. The city has a high density of professionals with STEM degrees. Specific industry strengths include graphics & gaming development, DevOps engineering, software development, AI, and clean technology. This talent is crucial for Helsinki's vibrant startup ecosystem, which features numerous startups, accelerators, and attracts significant venture capital. Local talent supports entrepreneurial growth through a skilled workforce and a collaborative community.

Like funding, competition for talent can be fierce, especially for highly specialised roles in fields like software development or AI. For startups looking to scale quickly, hiring the right people at the right time can be a challenge, leading some founders to look outside the region for remote talent solutions.

Get Global While Local

While hiring locally in Helsinki can be competitive and slow, EWOR gives you instant access to a global network of exceptional talent. Built by founders for founders, the EWOR team has launched and exited companies worth over €12 billion – and they bring that experience directly into your venture. It's not just about funding or surface-level advice; it's akin to having a co-founder from day one. 

The team collaborates closely with you to refine your idea, challenge your thinking, and support you through real-world decisions – just like a hands-on partner would. Moreover, with EWOR’s exclusive co-founder pool, you can find the right person to build with, regardless of their location.

4. Infrastructure and Support Systems

Helsinki boasts a strong infrastructure that supports the growth of new businesses. From modern office spaces to high-speed internet, entrepreneurs have access to everything they need to run their startups smoothly. Government policies may also provide tax breaks, legal support, and other incentives that make starting a business more attractive in this region.

Helsinki offers a robust ecosystem for startups, featuring numerous co-working spaces, incubators like Maria 01 and Health Incubator Helsinki, and accelerators such as Kiuas and Startup Sauna. These provide essential infrastructure, mentorship, networking, and access to funding opportunities. Government initiatives significantly bolster the ecosystem. Business Finland is a key player, offering funding for research, development, and international growth, including specific programs for deep tech startups. The Finnish government also supports entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Startup Permit program, attracting international founders. This comprehensive support system, coupled with strong collaboration between universities, research institutions, and the public sector, helps startups innovate and scale globally.

But what looks good on paper often proves more complicated in practice. Bureaucracy can be time-consuming and opaque, especially for first-time founders unfamiliar with local laws. Incorporation takes longer than expected. Accessing public funding often means navigating slow processes, strict requirements, or hard-to-reach advisors. And operational costs – from accounting to regulatory compliance – can quickly eat into early budgets. 

A System That Moves With You

With access to expert guidance, practical legal resources, and a network of experienced entrepreneurs who’ve built across a range of regulatory systems, EWOR is well positioned to help founders navigate the bureaucratic and legal complexities that often come with building in Helsinki. Instead of wasting time figuring things out alone, you’ll have the tools and support to stay focused on what matters most – growing your venture.

And while we’re remote-first, our support is anything but distant. Through in-person gatherings like the EWOR House, city-based meetups, and our twice-yearly Grand Pitch event, you’ll still build meaningful relationships with investors, peers, and mentors. It’s a system that helps you focus on building – not just dealing with paperwork.

Can Helsinki Be Considered the Best Place to Launch a Startup?

There’s no doubt that Helsinki provides a vibrant environment for startups, with access to funding, innovation, talent, and infrastructure that can help entrepreneurs build successful businesses. For many, it’s a strong contender for the best place to launch a startup, thanks to its growing entrepreneurial ecosystem and support systems.

Entrepreneurs launching a startup in Helsinki may face several challenges. Competition exists, particularly within the city's strong tech and gaming sectors. While some sources suggest Helsinki has a lower cost of living compared to other major startup hubs, others indicate rising costs, especially concerning housing, which could impact founders and employees. Regulatory issues can also pose hurdles. Challenges include bureaucracy, particularly in recruiting non-EEA workers, and the need for regulatory reform to enhance competitiveness and attract foreign investment. Additionally, navigating public procurement processes can be complex and burdensome for startups.

However, it’s important to remember that the location of a startup is no longer the be-all and end-all. In today’s digital age, location-independent options like EWOR allow entrepreneurs to access world-class mentorship, funding, and resources from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re based in Helsinki or elsewhere, EWOR’s remote programmes are designed to support founders no matter where they are located.

So, while Helsinki offers significant advantages, it’s worth considering options like EWOR that enable you to launch and scale your startup with global support – whether you’re in the heart of a bustling startup hub or working from a quiet corner of the world.

Image credits: by Andreas Brücker on Unsplash