Viikki Wood & Forest InnoHub from University of Helsinki and the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) invite future shapers of the forest and nature sector to join a two-stage pitching competition. We are looking for the most promising early-stage startup and teams developing future commercial solutions to promote sustainable forest bioeconomy, halt nature loss and strengthen biodiversity – turning ideas into impactful innovations. The solutions should be at minimum at a level where they have been validated.
The first stage will take place at Forest Industry Days (Metsäpäivät, 23 October 2025), where participants can meet leading experts, companies, and decision-makers in forest use by pitching their solution. The top teams will advance to the final at Slush side-event, Y-Science (19 November 2025), connecting with investors, innovators, and global networks.
The competition offers valuable visibility, targeted pitch training, and direct access to two distinct audiences: forest-sector professionals and the international startup and investor community. The winning team will receive a €5,000 prize and, more importantly, the chance to take their idea to the next level.
Our goal is to bring forward fresh, research-based solutions to the pressing sustainability challenges of forests and nature as well as related industries – combining science, technology, and practical implementation – and to strengthen Finland’s position as a forerunner in sustainable innovation.
Join us in creating innovations that not only utilize nature but restore and strengthen its vitality for generations to come as well as maximize the sustainable use of natural resources.
The call is open until 14.9.2025!