Bringing together founders, investors, experts and people driving innovation forward.
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026 brings together founders, investors, entrepreneurs, students, researchers, business professionals and ecosystem builders for one focused afternoon in Kuopio.
The event is built around practical insights, real startup stories and meaningful connections — with a programme designed to support early-stage growth, investment readiness and regional startup collaboration.
What to expect
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026 includes:
- Keynotes from startup operators, investors and experienced business builders
- A startup pitch competition
- A panel discussion
- Open networking with founders, investors and ecosystem actors
- Opportunities to meet people building and supporting new business in Eastern Finland
Who should attend
The event is relevant for:
- Startup founders and startup teams
- Students and aspiring entrepreneurs
- Investors and business professionals
- Researchers and innovation-driven teams
- Organisations supporting entrepreneurship, growth and regional development
Startup Summit Kuopio 2026 is part of the wider regional startup ecosystem development work and is connected to ongoing initiatives such as the Kipinä Program.
Date: 18 August 2026
Location: Savonia University of Applied Sciences, Kampussydän, Kuopio
Event language: English
Early bird ticket: €20
Good to know
Highlights
- 6 hours
- In-person
Refund Policy
Location
Savonia University of Applied Sciences
1 Microkatu
70210 Kuopio
How do you want to get there?
Agenda
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Host 2026
Saara Närä is the host of Startup Summit Kuopio 2026. She is a Kuopio-based speaker, social media professional, and founder & CEO of Kupla Social, with strong experience in communications, content creation and live event hosting.
Speaker
Vilma Torstila is an experienced entrepreneur and investor, serving as Partner and Investment Director at Bocap, one of Finland’s private equity companies focused on SMEs. She has worked closely with growth companies as an advisor, investor and board professional.
Speaker
Minna Hendolin (Director of Impact, University of Eastern Finland) 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 science into real-world impact.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 science into real-world impact.