
Why this Challenge?
Vantaa is the 4-th largest city in Finland offering attractive location, excellent R&D ecosystem and pool of professional talents for high-tech industry. Over 50% of Finland’s semiconductor industry revenue (incl. Vaisala and Okmetic) is generated by companies in Vantaa.
Piloting opportunities with key industrial leaders, strong public sector support, facilitated access to the Finlands startup ecosystem and funding create a unique combination of business opportunities for startups.

Our Startup Challenge

Vantaa High Tech Cluster innovation challenge
The Context:
The Startup Challenge is rooted in Vantaa’s strong semiconductor and high-tech manufacturing cluster, where industry leaders and scaleups operate in sensing, measurement, and advanced industrial technologies. The challenge addresses growing complexity, precision demands, and sustainability pressures in semiconductor and industrial production. The goal is to accelerate innovations that strengthen competitiveness, precision, scalability, and sustainable manufacturing performance, specifically in semiconductor industry.
What we are looking for:
We seek scalable, and high-impact solutions in semiconductor manufacturing, metrology, advanced industrial processes, power electonics, industrial flow measurement and smart energy systems sectors. Solutions must demonstrate technical excellence, reliability, and readiness for industrial piloting. Technologies shall integrate with existing infrastructure and data flows, and support interoperability, smart factory systems, and sustainability objectives.
Selection Criteria
Solution Maturity & Readiness
An existing operational solution that can be quickly adapted supported by client references.
Market Fit
A clear value proposition for industrial high-tech cluster customers.
Interest in Nordic Expansion
Demonstrated interest in entering or scaling within the EU market and Finnish startup ecosystem.
Team & Execution Capability
A strong, complementary team with relevant technical, commercial, and industry expertise.
Rewards
Timeline
Jury




FAQ
Who can apply?
Can I apply for more than one Startup Challenge/Award?
What is the difference between a Startup Challenge and an Award?
Is applying for an Award or Startup Challenge free?








