Life after Kickstart?
Did you participate in Kickstart competition and now have a flame within you to continue developing your business idea? Good, because co-operation doesn´t have to end here. You can continue working on your idea in Oulu’s startup ecosystem functions and events.
StartupOulu brings together all events, communities, and support services in one place. You can explore and register for activities within Oulu’s startup ecosystem at https://www.startupoulu.com. Find us on social media @startupoulu (Instagram and LinkedIn).
Below are some examples of how you can start turning your idea into a business.
Examples of startup programs and incubators
OSAO Business Lighthouse – A Pre-incubator for Secondary-level Students Based on the “All on Board” Principle
OSAO Business Lighthouse offers coaching and guidance for anyone interested in entrepreneurship. Get inspired by your own skills, dare to explore and experiment, and take steps toward your dreams through entrepreneurship.
OSAO Bisnesmajakka is being developed as part of the Small Business Hub project, co-funded by the European Union.
You're warmly welcome to explore our services and have a chat — whether you're a current OSAO student, a recent graduate, someone seeking feedback for a business idea, or a jobseeker dreaming about entrepreneurship. Read more
Startup Express
Turn your idea into a startup in 100 days!
Would you like to start your own startup in Oulu but don’t know where to begin? Startup Express is a pre-incubator program that gives you the skills, confidence, and networks to get started and turn your idea into reality. The program is in English. Read more
OYSTER Incubator
Do you have a business idea related to promoting health and well-being? Our program equips early-stage health and life science startups with the tools, resources, and connections they need to thrive:
Business & Market Readiness
Funding & Regulation
Product Development
Mentorship & Networks. Read more
Examples of ecosystem events:
Startup Weekend Oulu
At Startup Weekend, you’ll develop your entrepreneurial skills together with your team, supported by experienced mentors. Meet potential co-founders and turn your business idea into reality in just 54 hours! Your ticket includes the full weekend program, 7 delicious meals, and an after party! Read more
Polar Bear Pitching
Oulu’s most famous pitching competition has no time limit. Entrepreneurs have to pitch in an ice-cold water in the ice hole, and the best ideas will thrive. Read more
Examples of start-up community actors:
OuluES
Oulu Entrepreneurship Society brings together active students who are interested in entrepreneurship. The aim of the association is to create an enthusiastic atmosphere, help students and bring entrepreneurial people together to acquire new skills and networks. Join now!
Business Oulu
The city of Oulu Business Services will help you get started by sparring the most critical issues related to your business idea. BusinessOulu also implements coaching programs for people interested in entrepreneurship. Read more
Oulu University Innovation Centre
Oulu University Innovation Centre is a joint service by Universities of Oulu area that aids student entrepreneurship and businesses in utilising research. Read more
Examples of comfortable working spaces:
Business Corner
Business Corner serves as an entrepreneurial community in Linnanmaa, and is a meeting place for entrepreneurial students and people. Come and enjoy a cup of coffee at Business Corner Co-work while connecting with like-minded people.
Co-work is open to everyone on weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and entrepreneurship coaches are available in the space on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Read more
Njetwork Inn
A guesthouse, an all-inclusive work space and a shared work area where the entrepreneurs enjoys being. You can focus on your business while Njetwork Inn takes care that you have everything you need around you and interesting company during your breaks. Read more
Kielo Growth
Business Incubator for garage startups who work hands on. Kielo Growth provides you the facilities and services so that you can concentrate on your expertise. Read more