Health Incubator Helsinki, a comprehensive program for research-based, early-stage teams and startups in the health sector, is currently accepting applications for its seventh cohort. This publicly funded initiative, part of Health Capital Helsinki, aims to support entrepreneurs by providing the necessary infrastructure and guidance to establish and grow their companies within Helsinki's vibrant health ecosystem.
Program Offerings and Benefits
• Long-term support for up to three years.
• Customized mentoring and advice from experienced business mentors.
• Weekly webinars and workshops.
• Networking opportunities and connections to investors, industry experts, and innovative entrepreneurs.
• Peer-to-peer support from other startups within the incubator.
• Office and co-working space at Terkko Health Hub in Helsinki.
• The incubator services are free for participants, with the exception of a minor fee for the office space.
• The program does not take any equity in the participating companies.
Eligibility and Applicant Profile
• Focus Area: The program is open to startups and teams in MedTech, HealthTech, or Biotech, including medical devices, diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, life sciences, and digital or deep tech solutions.
• Idea Stage: Applicants should have a strong, clearly defined idea addressing a real-world problem, or a business concept based on an innovative technology.
• Team Composition: A minimum of two founders is required. Teams are preferably based in Europe.
• Company Stage: The program is designed for early-stage ventures, but having an established company, a prototype, or a Minimum Viable Product is a distinct advantage.
Program Structure and Timeline
• Application Deadline: February 28, 2026.
• Selection Process: Selected candidates will be scheduled for interviews in March 2026.
• Program Start: Approximately 10 teams will be chosen for the program, which is set to begin in May 2026.
• Initial Phase: The program kicks off with a two-month initiation phase focused on building a solid foundation for securing funding, after which support becomes more tailored to each team's specific needs and goals.
Application Details
• Submission: Applications must be submitted by the deadline. The online form allows applicants to save their progress and complete it at a later time.
• Application Form Sections: Applicants will be required to provide information on the following areas: Team, Opportunity / Problem, Solution, Market and sales, Market entry barriers, Unique competitive advantages, Competition, Business Model, Go to market strategy, Stage of development, Accomplishments to date, and Level of current funding.
For further information regarding the Health Incubator Helsinki program, interested parties may contact the Incubator Leader, Christian Lardot, at +358 40 195 2639 or christian.lardot@hel.fi.