This year's theme for the technology and growth business event Slush is ‘Ground State’. It refers to the moment when the technological foundation is changing and artificial intelligence and rapid technological developments define the future.
“Helsinki needs more life, vitality and growth – new businesses, talent and investments. Technology and innovation play a key role in this. Slush is an important partner and pull factor for the city in building growth and vitality," says Mayor Daniel Sazonov.
This year, Slush will attract 6,000 start-ups and 3,500 investors. This is more than last year, when a record number of start-ups and investors attended the event.
“It is wonderful to witness the appeal of Helsinki around the Slush event, when our city is at the centre of the global tech and startup ecosystem," says City of Helsinki Director of Economic Development Marja-Leena Rinkineva.
“Our ambition is to unequivocally be the best place for start-ups in the world. At the City of Helsinki, we are actively working towards this every day," Rinkineva continues.
Artificial intelligence and new investor encounters
Slush's theme this year, 'Welcome to the Ground State', challenges us to rethink the basis of technology.
“The ‘Ground State’ theme refers to the moment before change, when everything is still possible. We believe that we are currently living in such a moment. AI is not just a technological breakthrough; it is changing the way we build businesses that change the world. At this year's Slush, we want to make sure that European entrepreneurs not only keep up, but take the lead," says Slush CEO Aino Bergius.
Venture Capital Lead Panu Maulaheimo at Helsinki Partners, the City of Helsinki's marketing and investment company, is looking forward to this year's event.
“This year, Slush will feature a new series of curated investor meetings between Venture Capital funds and the LPs (Limited Partners) who invest in these funds. We are proud that our collaboration will help raise Slush's completely unique profile around the world and boost one of its core purposes: bringing the right people together," says Maulaheimo.
Slush to impact tourism in Helsinki
Slush will bring significant additional revenue to Helsinki and strengthen the city's position as an international event city.
The average revenue per room in accommodation establishments in Helsinki is expected to increase by 60% during Slush compared to the week before the event. In addition to this, the occupancy rate is expected to rise, as it did last year, reaching 98% on the peak day.
This year, Slush will be held on 19–20 November at the Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre.
