The University of Helsinki is hosting JOURNEYS, a four-month, mentor-driven incubator designed to help multidisciplinary teams transform their ideas into viable ventures. The programme supports early-stage concepts in AI & deep tech, sustainability, and social impact, providing a structured environment for venture development. Over 250 teams have participated in Helsinki Incubators programmes to date.
Program Overview
• Program Name: JOURNEYS
• Duration: 4 months (16 weeks)
• Organizer: University of Helsinki (Helsinki Incubators)
• Focus Areas: AI & Deep Tech, Sustainability & Nature, Social Impact
• Location: Helsinki Incubators Coworking Space, Porthania, 3rd floor, Yliopistonkatu 3, 00100 Helsinki
Application Details
• Application Period: December 9, 2025 – February 8, 2026
• Application Deadline: February 8, 2026, at 23:59 (UTC+2)
• Selection Process: After the deadline, shortlisted teams will be invited to a 30-minute video interview via MS Teams
Participant Eligibility and Thematic Tracks
• General Eligibility: Open to early-stage business and technology-related ideas, services, solutions, and products. Applicants do not need a business degree or an established company. Teams must consist of at least two members and be able to participate in the programme in Helsinki.
• AI & Deep Tech Track: Ventures based on science-grounded technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, quantum computing, semiconductors, advanced materials, and synthetic biology.
• Sustainability & Nature Track: Ventures focused on building a more sustainable future, including Agritech, Biomaterials, Blue Tech, Clean Energy, Food Tech, Low-carbon innovations, and Nature Tech.
• Social Impact Track: Profit-for-purpose ventures addressing societal challenges aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, including well-being, equality, inclusion, immigration, education, and elder care.
• Other Fields: Applications from other domains are welcome if they align broadly with one of the three main tracks.
Programme Structure and Timeline
• Phase 1 – Bootcamp: An intensive bootcamp focused on idea validation, customer discovery, business models, and entrepreneurial fundamentals.
• Phase 2 – Specialised Track: Track-specific training, hands-on mentorship, and preparation for market entry and scaling.
• Program Start Date: February 23
• Program End Date: June 10
• Workshop Schedule: One to two workshops or lectures per week
• Mentor Sessions: Teams are assigned two primary mentors and meet mentors at least twice per month, primarily online
Benefits of Participation
• Resources: Access to partner tools and resources
• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, industry experts, and investors
• Business Development: Support toward incorporation and market validation
• Networking: Connections to the local and international startup ecosystem
Contact Information
• Andrés Archila, Deep Tech & AI Track Project Manager
andres.archila@helsinki.fi, +358 29 41 21201
• Enrique Montano, Sustainability Track Project Manager
enrique.montano@helsinki.fi, +358 50 309 1810
• Pete Karumo, Social Impact Track Project Manager
pete.karumo@helsinki.fi, +358 50 4389 235
Interested teams with ideas aligned to the programme’s tracks are encouraged to apply. JOURNEYS offers a comprehensive framework of mentorship, skill development, and ecosystem access to support founders from idea to early venture.