In a world where traditional approaches fall short, we embrace innovation and creativity as catalysts for change. Presented by the University of Helsinki’s Helsinki Incubators, the third edition of our Biosphere programme extends a unique invitation to exceptional teams. This intensive, six-month mentor-driven journey is designed to propel your research, technology, or business concept into a globally recognised venture.
Biosphere enthusiastically invites teams of ambitious entrepreneurs, innovators, and visionaries, encompassing bachelor's and master's students, PhDs, post-docs, PIs, researchers, professors, and faculty members from the University of Helsinki and beyond. Our doors are open to all residents of the Helsinki Capital Region, emphasising our commitment to fostering diverse and impactful ventures, regardless of your affiliation with the University.
We're seeking well-defined ideas in various fields, including agribusiness, bioeconomy, biomass, biomaterials, circular economy, decarbonisation, eMobility, energy efficiency, green hydrogen, green transformation, water use and treatment, and beyond. We also encourage applications from ventures outside these domains but connected to sustainability or circularity.
Through a blend of immersive workshops and strategic collaboration among teams, mentors, and experts, we provide a platform for unparalleled entrepreneurial growth. Leveraging our extensive network of Finnish and international corporates and investors, we ensure robust support for every stage of your venture's establishment, expansion, and scaling.
No business background? No problem! Lack of business experience is no barrier at Biosphere. Our seasoned experts and mentors will equip you with comprehensive business acumen, guiding your journey from ideation to commercialisation, ultimately driving positive global change.
Interested? Apply now to take part in this transformative journey!
In our pursuit of creating a brighter world for all, we embrace innovation and dare to envision a future where ecological responsibility and economic prosperity are intertwined. As one of the world’s leading research universities with connections to multiple environmental and sustainability research institutes, the University of Helsinki is well placed to provide enthusiastic potential entrepreneurs a place to create start-ups which are ultimately beneficial for the regeneration and protection of our planet.
Biosphere will run from 13 May 2024 to 14 November, with a summer break between 19 June and 14 August. The programme will be held in English and consists of weekly 100% in-person workshops held on the Viikki Campus and the Helsinki Incubators Space at the City Centre Campus.
In addition, each participating teams will receive their own 1-2 mentors from Biosphere’s mentor pool, with whom they’ll have bi-monthly sessions to propel teams forward with personalised guidance.
“Don’t think, just do it. If you have a good idea, just go, try it out, and see what you can do with it. In Biosphere, you will get everything you need to grow and flourish!” exclaims Surendra Pradhan from the University of Helsinki’s Department of Agriculture, expressing gratitude for the supportive Biosphere community.
Still contemplating whether to apply? Delve into the stories of Biosphere alumni and insights from mentors to get to know valuable perspectives into the program's transformative impact. Make sure to also read the important application information below:
Essential Participation Criteria:
- Teams must have a minimum of two members.
- Full engagement in all workshops and assignments is non-negotiable.
- On-site attendance is crucial, with a focus on active and committed participation.
Application Guidelines:
- A team of at least two members.
- Drafts of the Business Model Canvas and the Value Proposition Canvas.
- A pitch deck detailing your innovation or business idea.
- A brief (3nmin) video presentation of your business idea.
- Commitment to actively participate in workshops and mentoring sessions.
Application Process:
Please fill out the application form by 1 May, 2024, 23:59. Selected teams will be invited for a 30-minute interview with the project management via MS Teams.
Outcomes of the program:
By the end of the programme, we expect every team to have:
- A consolidated business model and value proposition.
- A revised pitch and pitch-deck.
- Tangible elements that bring your business to like (logo, website, LinkedIn page, etc.)
- An action plan to guide your venture in the future.
For a comprehensive overview of the Biosphere incubator programme we invite you to join our open info sessions on 13 March (on the City Centre Campus) and 15 March (on the Viikki campus) by signing up to the info session of your choice at their respective link. You may also directly contact Biosphere project lead Pedro Gensini through pedro.gensinimotoa@helsinki.fi, or in matters concerning mentorships & corporate partnerships, Alfonso Gutierrez at alfonso.gutierrez@helsinki.fi.
You can also drop in at Pedro's open office hours held on Fridays from 14:00 to 17:00 in the lobby of Info Center Korona (Viikinkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki).
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