Startup Summit Kuopio
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026
Bringing together founders, investors, researchers and ecosystem builders for an afternoon of pitches, insights and focused networking.
About
A meeting point for the Eastern Finland startup ecosystem.
Startup Summit Kuopio is a regional startup event bringing together early-stage startups, investors, researchers and ecosystem builders.
The event features startup pitching, keynotes, partner insights, investor connections and guided networking in a practical one-day format.
18 Aug 2026
The event takes place on Tuesday 18 August 2026.
Kuopio
Hosted in Kuopio, Finland, as part of Health Insights Week 2026.
12:00-17:30
A focused afternoon programme with pitches, keynotes and networking.
18:30
Informal networking continues at the afterparty.
In collaboration with
Who should attend
Built for people turning ideas into business.
Startup Summit Kuopio is designed for practical conversations between founders, investors, researchers and people supporting new business growth.
Startup founders
Meet investors, partners and other people building new companies.
Investors
Discover early-stage companies, regional deal flow and founder teams.
Researchers
Explore how research can move toward commercial impact and scalable business.
Ecosystem builders
Connect with the people shaping the startup ecosystem in Eastern Finland.
Speakers & host
Confirmed for 2026
The first confirmed names for Startup Summit Kuopio 2026. More speakers and jury members will be announced as the programme develops.
Startup pitching competition
Selected startups will pitch on stage in front of investors, jury members, partners and the regional startup community. The format is designed to give early-stage teams visibility, feedback and relevant connections.
Programme
Programme 2026
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026 brings together keynotes, startup pitches, partner insights, guided networking and a panel discussion on commercialising research.
Doors open, registration and coffee
Arrival, check-in and coffee before the official programme begins.
Welcome and opening words
Opening of Startup Summit Kuopio 2026.
Keynote 1
A 15-minute keynote followed by a short Q&A.
Keynote 2
A 15-minute keynote followed by a short Q&A.
Partner spotlight
A short partner presentation.
Startup pitching competition
Selected startups pitch their ideas on stage in front of the audience, jury and ecosystem partners.
Coffee and guided networking
A facilitated networking session for startups, investors, partners and other participants.
Panel discussion
From research to business: how can research be commercialised?
Partner spotlight and winner announcement
The winner of the startup pitching competition will be announced.
Closing words and open networking
The official programme closes and networking continues.
Official programme ends
Transition to the afterparty.
Afterparty
Informal networking continues at Luoto.
The programme is subject to small changes. Speaker names and final session details will be announced closer to the event.
Venue
Savonia UAS Kampussydän
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026 takes place at Savonia University of Applied Sciences’ Microkatu campus in Savilahti, a key area for education, research, health, technology and business in Kuopio.
Microkatu 1, Kuopio
The main programme takes place in Savonia’s Kampussydän stage and lobby area. Kampussydän is located on the Microkatu campus, with guidance from Savonia’s main entrances.
Open in Google MapsMap location
Accommodation
Partner hotels for Health Insights Week 2026
Three partner hotels are available for visitors attending Health Insights Week 2026 events, including Startup Summit Kuopio. Rooms are subject to availability.
Lapland Hotels Kuopio
Lapland Hotels Kuopio combines northern hospitality with the relaxed charm of the Savo region.
Address:
Puijonkatu 32, 70100 Kuopio
Room rates 18.8.-20.8.2026:
Northern Comfort Single Room: €118/night
Northern Comfort Double Room: €138/night
Booking code:
ALLHEALHTINSIGHTS
Book by:
20.7.2026
More details
Distances:
Kuopio railway station 140 m
Kuopio Travel Center 200 m
Kuopio Market Square 500 m
Kuopio Airport 16.6 km
Includes:
Buffet breakfast, WiFi, evening guest sauna access from 18:00 to 22:00, gym access, and Lapland Hotels Club points and benefits.
Scandic Atlas
Scandic Atlas is located in the centre of Kuopio, close to services and transport connections.
Address:
Haapaniemenkatu 22, 70110 Kuopio
Discount information:
Health Insights Week 2026 participants are entitled to a discounted room rate at Scandic Atlas.
Booking:
Book accommodation
Availability:
Rooms are subject to hotel availability and can be booked up to 10 days before arrival.
More details
Arrival:
The hotel is located in the centre of Kuopio, within walking distance of the railway station and bus station. Parking is available in Toriparkki under Kuopio Market Square.
Booking terms:
Guests may choose their preferred room type. Cancellation terms depend on the selected booking type. A valid credit card is required to confirm the reservation.
Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi
Original Sokos Hotel Puijonsarvi is a lively hotel close to the market square and Kallavesi.
Address:
Minna Canthin katu 16, 70100 Kuopio
Room rates 18.-21.8.2026:
Standard Single Room: €130/night
Standard Double Room: €150/night
Superior Single Room: €155/night
Superior Double Room: €175/night
Booking code:
BHEALTHWEEK
Book by:
21.7.2026
More details
Additional room options:
Superior Single Room with Sauna: €175/night
Superior Double Room with Sauna: €195/night
Includes:
Accommodation, buffet breakfast, guest sauna access and gym access.
Reservations:
Website: Sokos Hotels
Email: puijonsarvi.kuopio@sokoshotels.fi
Phone: +358 (0)10 762 9500
FAQ
Practical information
A few quick answers for participants, pitching teams and partners.
Is pre-registration binding?
No. Pre-registration is free and non-binding. You will receive updates about the programme, ticket sales and event announcements.
Who is the event for?
The event is for startup founders, investors, researchers, students, entrepreneurs, ecosystem operators and partners interested in new business growth.
Can startups from outside Kuopio apply to pitch?
Yes. Startups and teams from outside Kuopio can apply, as long as they are able to attend and pitch in person at the event.
Where should I go when I arrive?
The event takes place in Savonia’s Kampussydän at the Microkatu campus. There will be guidance from the main entrances to the registration area.
What language will the event use?
The event is planned with an international audience in mind. Some sessions may be in English, Finnish or a mix depending on the speakers and participants.
Where does the event take place?
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026 takes place at Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Kampussydän, Microkatu 1, Kuopio.
Want to stay updated?
Pre-registration is free and non-binding. You will get early access to event updates, ticket sales and announcements. You are not committing to attend or pay anything.
Previous event
From Startup Summit Eastern Finland 2025
Photos from Startup Summit Eastern Finland 2025, organized in Microkatu 1, Novapolis. Photography by Paula Turpeinen.
Sponsors & partners
Startup Summit Kuopio is organized in collaboration with regional ecosystem partners.
