The incubator, set up by the City of Helsinki and the University of Helsinki in 2020, supports the commercialisation of research innovations and their growth into successful businesses. The seventh programme period will start in May 2026 with a select 10–12 early-stage startups from Finland and around the world.
Participants receive up to three years of support, including tailored advice, weekly webinars and workshops, and extensive networks with more than 150 organisations. The programme also offers office and shared space in the Meilahti hospital area.
“In recent years, we have been able to offer more and more support to programme participants, such as laboratory facilities for companies in Biomedicum," says Christian Lardot, who runs the incubator programme.
Funding of €65 million already raised
Currently, a total of 26 teams are developing their business in Health Incubator Helsinki. Since 2020, the startups that have participated in the incubator have raised more than €65 million in funding.
“Last year, a record €22.4 million in funding was raised, almost double that of previous years,” Lardot says.
One of the success stories is Solid IO, which is developing a platform for drug testing in cancer treatments. Founded in early 2025, the company managed to secure three rounds of funding in the same year.
“Through the incubator, we have gained exposure and become part of the wider health innovation community," says Noora Hujala, CEO of Solid IO.
Looking for dedicated teams and solutions to real problems
Applicants must have a team of at least two people, a clear problem-driven business idea and an existing company.
“We focus on assessing whether there is an international demand for the company's innovation, product or service, and evaluating the team's skills, dedication and passion," Lardot says.
More information and the application form can be found on the Health Incubator Helsinki website. The application period will end on 28 February 2026.
