Startup Summit Kuopio
For Visitors
Join Startup Summit Kuopio to see what is happening in the regional startup ecosystem and meet the people building it.
Who this is for
A practical startup event for curious people.
Startup Summit Kuopio is open to people who want to understand what is happening in the regional startup ecosystem and meet the people building it.
You do not need to pitch, invest or represent an organisation to attend. A visitor ticket gives you access to the event programme, pitch competition and networking.
Good fit
This event is for you if you are
The event is designed for people who want a clearer view of startups, innovation and growth in Eastern Finland.
Student or young professional
Useful if you are interested in startups, entrepreneurship, innovation or future career opportunities.
Founder or freelancer
Meet other builders, hear practical lessons and get a better understanding of the local startup ecosystem.
Expert or service provider
Relevant if you work with business development, marketing, finance, legal, technology or other growth-related services.
Research, education or public sector
A good fit for people working with commercialisation, entrepreneurship education and regional development.
Why attend
What you get from the day
What you can expect
- Keynotes and practical insights from people building real companies.
- A startup pitch competition with feedback from experienced judges.
- Opportunities to meet founders, investors and ecosystem actors.
- A focused event with substance, not just generic networking.
Why attend as a visitor
- See what kinds of startups are being built in Eastern Finland.
- Get a realistic view of early-stage entrepreneurship.
- Build useful new connections in a natural setting.
- Learn from conversations that are grounded in practice.
During the day
What happens at the event
The programme includes keynotes, startup pitches, partner insights, guided networking and a panel discussion.
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.
Keynotes
Practical perspectives from experienced speakers.
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?
Closing words and open networking
The official programme closes and networking continues.
Want to join as a visitor?
Pre-registration is free and non-binding. You will get early access to event updates, ticket sales and announcements.
Sponsors & partners
Startup Summit Kuopio is organized in collaboration with regional ecosystem partners.
