Ready to build? A founder evening
Thinking about making a career shift to entrepreneurship? You’re not “too late”.
Join us at Hanken Business Lab for an inspiring, low-pressure evening for women and non-binary founders who are curious about entrepreneurship and already have some years of career experience behind.
Whether you’re playing with an idea, considering a career shift, or simply want to meet other entreprenuership-minded, this event is a space to learn and connect - without pitching, pressure, or hype.
You’ll hear honest stories from experienced founders and ecosystem leaders, take part in guided conversations, and meet others who are exploring similar questions. The goal of the evening is to spark inspiration and provide concrete tools to help you take the leap.
Agenda
16:30 Doors open
17:00 Welcome
17:10 Talk: "What would it take for more women to found?" - Ella Rytsölä, Co-founder of Even Founders
17:25 Q&A: "You don't need to know it all: building a startup, honestly" - Pia-Maria Nickström, CEO of Startup Foundation and founder of the popular Mimmit sijoittaa -media/community
17:40 Workshop: "From idea to action: what actually works when starting a company" - Sarah Anto, Founder of FundHER
18:50 Closing words
Ella will speak about the reasons behind the vast gender inequalities in the startup world, why it matters, and how we change the current landscape. She'll give a societal perspective but also talk about how we as individuals can, and should, all be part of leveling the playing field for women founders.
Pia-Maria will share honest reflections from her own early days as a founder and lessons that shaped her journey. She’ll share insights into the current state of the startup ecosystem and the kinds of ideas taking shape today. You’ll also discover how Startup Foundation supports founders from the very first steps.
Sarah will lead a fireside chat and moderated workshop on turning your idea into a fundable startup. Drawing from her experience supporting 100+ founders who've raised $50M+ combined, she'll share what actually works (and what doesn't) in the early stages. This is a practical, no-BS session designed to help you take the next concrete step.
While this event focuses on women and non-binary founders, it’s rooted in the belief that more inclusive entrepreneurship benefits everyone. Participants of all genders are warmly welcome to join the conversation.