#Finland #Helsinki #Deep Tech #90 Day Finn

Helsinki: A New Epicenter for Deep Tech Innovation

Helsinki is rapidly establishing itself as a standout player in the global deep tech landscape, inviting industry leaders to come and explore unique opportunities in this vibrant ecosystem. Through its innovative 90 Day Finn program, the city is becoming a go-to destination for international tech entrepreneurs and investors looking to immerse themselves in a supportive and collaborative environment.

The firsthand experiences of participants underscore the city’s potential. Take Sagar Tandon, for instance. Upon his arrival in Helsinki, he was pleasantly surprised by the accessible innovation ecosystem, teeming with local talent and quick decision-making opportunities. Tandon, a Singapore-based investor and participant in the 90 Day Finn program, shared, “The Finnish educational system produces a workforce that is highly skilled and capable of transforming research into commercial successes.”

The 90 Day Finn program serves as a three-week test drive for its guests, helping them dive into the business landscape while also offering the chance to enjoy life in what has been dubbed the world’s happiest capital. This immersive experience draws a diverse group of tech leaders to experience Helsinki’s unparalleled innovation culture firsthand.

“Deep tech innovation flourishes when the right blend of research excellence and ecosystem support exists,” stated Clarisse Berggårdh, CEO of Helsinki Partners. The program’s alumni network has rapidly expanded, encompassing connections across four continents, with many participants returning to build businesses in Helsinki after experiencing its unique innovation environment.

Unlike the typical boisterous atmosphere of startup networking events, Helsinki boasts a more intimate and supportive community where members genuinely cheer for each other’s success. Vincent Marsland, a Canadian alumnus of the program, noted, “Here, everyone is approachable, and even junior team members play a vital role in pushing projects forward.” This democratized approach enables individuals to act swiftly, fostering an environment ripe for technological advancements.

Cutting-Edge Infrastructure

Helsinki is not only known for its friendly environment but also for its robust technical infrastructure. The city hosts Europe’s largest private AI laboratory, alongside specialized research facilities that push the boundaries of technology. This includes Aalto University’s Low-Temperature Laboratory, which leads the way in quantum research at near absolute zero temperatures.

What makes Helsinki particularly appealing is how seamlessly these advanced facilities integrate with everyday business operations. Marsland found that where decision-making might take Western firms months, in Finland, it often occurs on the same day. “There’s no drawn-out bureaucracy here—decisions happen rapidly, and that significantly benefits deep tech firms,” he explained, adding that the local mentality promotes innovation as a solution for any challenge.

Quality of Life Meets Professionalism

Perhaps the most surprising aspect for newcomers is how Helsinki’s advanced business environment coexists with an emphasis on quality of life. Many participants find it enriching when their families join them. For instance, Marsland noted that his children quickly adapted to their new surroundings, delighted by the engaging and supportive community. His older kids benefit from educational programs that include yoga and international exchanges, while his toddler thrives amidst a wealth of new friendships.

Finnish life philosophies, with a notable appreciation for nature and simplicity, also shape the innovation perspective, allowing more long-term and purposeful thinking. Tandon remarked, “Finnish companies tend to require less funding while achieving results comparable to their European counterparts; this is indicative of a mindset that values sustainability and efficiency.”

Investment Potential

For investors like Tandon, Helsinki stands out for its reasonable valuations paired with exceptional technical capabilities. The deep tech sector here offers remarkable potential for returns, with Finnish firms often capable of generating 100x returns on investment.

The city’s strengths in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, and cybersecurity align with the heightened demands of the market. The presence of established research institutions fosters abundant opportunities for commercialization and international alliances, ushering in a new era of innovation.

Public investment in Finland also plays a crucial role in creating a stable environment for growth. Tandon explains that the strong public investment framework benefits private investors looking to expand. Marsland encapsulates the dynamic nature of this place by stating, “When you gather creative and open-minded individuals for an intense three-week program, the results are bound to be positive.”

Conclusion

As Helsinki continues to solidify its status as a deep tech hub, opportunities abound for those willing to engage with this thriving ecosystem. The 90 Day Finn program serves not only as an introduction to the Finnish way of innovating but also represents a broader movement towards a more collaborative and impactful approach to deep technology.