Startup Summit Kouvola – ISSIE GOES SLUSH
Where Growth Meets Execution
In 2026, we are proud to host the inaugural Startup Summit Kouvola. This two-day event brings together high-growth startups, investors, and established industry leaders to solve the real-world challenges of scaling a business.
Kouvola is one of Finland’s most strategically connected regions – where logistics, space and industrial capability create a unique launchpad for scalable startups.
The event will be held partly in English and partly in Finnish (see program). Startup Summit Kouvola is part of the Eastern Finland Startup Innovation Ecosystem (Itä-Suomen Startup Innovaatioekosysteemi, ISSIE).
Key Benefits for Participants
Direct Investor Access: Pre-scheduled 1-on-1 matchmaking with private and institutional investors.
Strategic Networking: Connect with industrial leaders and regional power players.
High-Stakes Visibility: Showcase your business to investors, media, and corporate partners.
Founder-Focused Mentoring: Actionable tracks on fundraising, sales, and global scaling.
Preliminary Program and Themes
Day 1: Foundation & Networks (in Finnish)
Thursday, May 21st
The opening day focuses on building the strategic foundation for growth. We bring together regional power players, academic experts, and seasoned investors to share actionable insights.
Opening Keynotes: The next wave of Eastern Finland’s growth – data-driven business, industrial transformation, and the green transition.
Mentor Clinics: Private 1-on-1 sessions for founders, focusing on fundraising and go-to-market strategies.
Investor Panel: "What are we looking for in 2026?" – featuring insights from FiBAN and regional investment experts.
Specialized Workshops: Intensive tracks on mastering the perfect 5-minute pitch and achieving a rock-solid Problem-Solution Fit.
Partner Expo: Meet key ecosystem players such as the City of Kouvola, Xamk, LUT, LAB, Kinno and corporate partners offering real-world opportunities and support.
Get-Together Party: An evening of high-level networking and celebration at the Kouvola City Hall.
Day 2: The Pitch & Execution (in English)
Friday, May 22nd
The second day is dedicated to high-stakes execution and international visibility. The focus shifts to the stage, where innovation meets capital.
The Pitching Finals: The top 10 startups compete live on stage for a €50,000+ prize pool – judged by a jury of leading investors and industry experts.
Investor Matchmaking: Utilizing dedicated tools to facilitate pre-scheduled meetings between founders and venture capital representatives.
Awards & Closing Keynote: Recognizing the winners and providing a global perspective on the future of technology and business.
After-Pitch Networking: A dedicated meetup for investors and startups to finalize discussions and explore future synergies.
More details about the program coming soon.
Hotel reservations:
Sokos Hotel Vaakuna (code: BSTARTUPSUMMIT26)
Scandic Hotels (code: CGRO)