Startup Summit Kuopio
Speakers & Jury
Practical perspectives from people building, funding and supporting startups. Meet the first confirmed speakers and host for Startup Summit Kuopio 2026.
What to expect
No empty theory. Real startup experience.
Startup Summit Kuopio brings together people who work hands-on with science, startups, investment, communications and business growth.
The focus is on practical experience, honest perspectives and conversations that are useful for early-stage teams, researchers and ecosystem builders.
Speakers & host
Confirmed for 2026
More speakers and jury members will be added as the programme develops.
Saara Närä
Speaker, social media professional, founder & CEO of Kupla Social
The host of the event is Saara Närä, a Kuopio-based speaker, social media professional, and founder & CEO of Kupla Social. With over 10 years of experience in communications, content creation, and live events, she is known for her energetic stage presence, engaging interviewing style, and modern approach to digital communication.
Vilma Torstila
Partner and Investment Director, Bocap
Vilma Torstila is an experienced entrepreneur and investor, serving as Partner and Investment Director at Bocap, one of Finland’s leading private equity companies focused on SMEs. She has over 10 years of experience in Bocap’s growth, fund establishment and fundraising, and has worked closely with growth companies as an advisor, investor and board professional.
Minna Hendolin
Director of Impact, University of Eastern Finland
Minna Hendolin works at the intersection of science, innovation and scalable business growth. With over 25 years of experience across academia, industry and innovation, she helps turn top science into real-world impact.
Pitch competition
Jury for 2026 coming soon
The pitch competition jury will be announced closer to the event.
Want to pitch at Startup Summit Kuopio?
Selected startups will pitch on stage in front of the audience, jury, investors and ecosystem partners.
Sponsors & partners
Startup Summit Kuopio is organized in collaboration with regional ecosystem partners.
