Entrepreneurship Unlocked: Tools, Support & Practical Steps for Your Journey

Following the discussions and inspiration sparked during Deep Tech Forge in February, this event takes the next step by focusing on the practical side of entrepreneurship and innovation.

Whether you are a student, doctoral researcher, researcher, staff member, aspiring founder, or simply curious about entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Unlocked offers an opportunity to explore the support, resources, and pathways available for turning ideas into action.

Event Information

Date: Monday, 17 August
Time: 13:00–15:00
Venue: Backstage, Tellus, Linnanmaa Campus

What to Expect

Entrepreneurship can take many forms—from launching a startup and commercializing research to testing an idea through light entrepreneurship or joining innovation projects.

In this practical afternoon session, experts from the local entrepreneurship ecosystem will share insights on:

• How to get started as an entrepreneur in Finland
• Advisory services and support available for new entrepreneurs
• Light entrepreneurship as a flexible way to explore business opportunities
• Communicating and pitching ideas to people from different backgrounds and disciplines
• Funding opportunities, competitions, and innovation support available through the University Innovation Centre
• Networking and one-to-one discussions with ecosystem experts

The event offers a welcoming environment for anyone interested in innovation, entrepreneurship, career development, or exploring new opportunities beyond traditional career paths.

Coffee and refreshments will be served during the networking break.

Preliminary Programme

13:00–14:00 Presentations

Advisory Services for New Entrepreneurs
Anneli Rinta-Paavola, Uusyrityskeskus

Light Entrepreneurship
Anne Karvonen, CEO, Omapaja

Pitching Made Simple: Speak So Anyone Understands
Shefat Islam, Business Asema

14:00–14:15 Coffee Break

14:15–14:25

Innovation Centre: PoC Funding, Ecosystem and Competitions
Ville Saarenpää

14:25–14:50

Networking and Individual Guidance

Who Should Attend?

• Students and doctoral researchers
• Researchers and university staff
• Aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators
• Anyone interested in entrepreneurship, startup ecosystems, or innovation support services
• Individuals who want to improve their pitching and networking skills

No previous experience in entrepreneurship is required.

Registration

Register by 12 August at 9:00 AM here.

Please note that the programme may be subject to changes.

This event is presented by the IKAPO Project, co-funded by the European Union and the Faculty of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, University of Oulu.

In collaboration with BusinessAsema, Uusyrityskeskus, UniOGS, and the University Innovation Centre.