Date: June 9
Place: Aalto, Otaniemi
Organizer: ELLIS Institute Finland
Read more and register here — spots are limited:
https://startup-exploration-day.lovable.app. Registration deadline: May 25th.
This event is for AI-focused PhD students, postdocs, researchers and group leaders across Finland who are curious about how research could turn into real-world impact through startups.
Why join?
AI is moving fast, and deep technical insight may shape many of the next important companies. This is a chance to learn what that opportunity could look like — without needing to already know whether you want to become a founder.
The day is intended to bring you relatable stories, practical tools and relaxed conversations to help you advance your ideas further. There are mentors and speakers present throughout the day from deep tech startups, VC investment firms, companies and startup ecosystems. No need to have any prior knowledge of the topic but if you are already developing an idea, you can apply to get feedback from experienced mentors. No polished pitch or preparation needed.
What to expect
- Founder stories and VC perspectives
- Networking with researchers, founders, investors and startup ecosystem people
- Afternoon options for exploring research-based startups and getting feedback on early ideas
- Speakers and mentors include Jyri Engeström from Lifeline Ventures, research-based founders, investors and startup ecosystem people
There are also other activities happening close to the event that could be interesting:
- On Monday 8th an industry event focusing on how to work with companies + pizza & beers with other AI researchers (DL for registration May 18th)
- On Wednesday 10th ELLIS Distinguished lecture by Bernhard Schölkopf + ELLIS community get-together at institute premises (sign-up here by May 27th)
- On Friday 5th an event organized by Nordic Science Investments focusing on venture capital as a possible career path for scientists.