Startup x Industry Connect – SOHJO 2026 Side Event

​Welcome to Startup x Industry Connect, a pitching and networking afternoon bringing together startups, industrial companies, and investors in Joensuu. This event is organised as a side event of SOHJO 2026.

​The goal of the event is to spark concrete collaboration between startups and industry, opening the door to new ideas, partnerships, and growth opportunities. During the afternoon, a curated selection of hand-picked startups will pitch their solutions and business ideas that can offer industrial companies fresh perspectives, practical innovations, and new ways to develop their operations.

​Alongside the pitches, the event offers a relaxed setting to network, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations with startups, industry representatives, and investors.

​The event is organised by Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN) and supported by Business Joensuu, Startup Joensuu, TT-säätiö, Outokummun Teollisuuskylä, Innokaupungit, and EU.

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​This event is part of the Startup x Industry project by FiBAN, funded by TT-säätiö. In the project we connect investors, early-stage startups and industrial companies to foster collaboration, accelerate innovation, and create new opportunities for scaling impactful solutions together.

​Program

​12:00 – Registration & networking, snacks & coffee
12:30 – Opening remarks

12:40 – Insights from industry: Nature Line Cutlery Oy | Markku Janhunen

12.50 – Startup pitches:
Matti Tikanmäki | Probot Oy
Jani Toropainen | MecMetal Oy
Henri Parkkonen | FiidBack
Miska Karvinen | Elevolt

​13:45 – Networking

​Venue
Original Sokos Hotel Kimmel, Joensuu

​Registration

​The event is open to Industrial company representatives, invited guests and FiBAN investor and partner members. Please make sure to register for the event and cancel your registration if you’re unable to attend – we may charge a fee for no-shows to compensate for food waste and inconvenience.