Startup Summit Kuopio

Speakers & Jury

Practical perspectives from people building, funding and supporting startups. The 2026 speaker and jury line-up will be announced as confirmations are finalised.

18 August 2026 Kuopio, Finland Founders Investors Ecosystem builders

What to expect

No empty theory. Real startup experience.

Startup Summit Kuopio brings together people who are actually building companies, funding startups and working hands-on with founders in the region.

The focus is on practical experience, honest perspectives and conversations that are useful for early-stage teams.

Speakers & host

Confirmed for 2026

More speakers and jury members will be added as the programme develops.

Host 2026

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.

Speaker 2026

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.