Kasvu Open and Nordea launch SUPERFINNS 2025 to propel Finnish success stories onto the global stage together with the program partners Bocap, Kovanen Capital, Nordic Foodtech VC, Saari Partners, Vendep Capital, Voima Ventures and business angel Mikko Nurminen.
Program partners are committed to providing companies with the best recipes for international success and to support ambitious entrepreneurs to achieve their potential.
WHAT DO PARTNERS HAVE TO OFFER FOR PARTICIPATING COMPANIES?
”It’s all about learning: the partners are committed to sharing their expertise and know-how to help you accelerate your business growth.” – Vesa Riihimäki, Nordea
”You will definitely get some strict questions. We’ll scrutinize your business from multiple angles helping you to identify and address the key factors necessary for growth. We can offer a wealth of industry knowledge and access to our networks to assist companies in achieving their goals.” – Hanna Henell, Saari Partners
”Extensive experience from various business sectors. However, it’s important to remember that the company itself is the one that will create their path to success based on the valuable pointers of experts”. – Mikko Nurminen, business angel
IN THE EYES OF AN INVESTOR:
WHAT DO COMPANIES USUALLY PONDER?
Hanna Henell:
”They ask how the capital investment decisions are made and what are the most important aspects that need to be “top notch” if you want to get an investor. An investor wants to understand your market, competitive situation, customers and team.”
BEEN THERE & DONE THAT: ANY TIPS TO SHARE?
Mikko Nurminen:
”When I think about my journey as an entrepreneur, many events could be described as good luck or good timing. Yet, luck needs to be earned by being active and hard-working. Many entrepreneurs are passionate and committed but lack experience, leading to early-stage failures.
It would be wise to gather cofounders, team members and advisors from different perspectives. And last – take care of your cap table. Too widely spread ownership and future funding rounds can lead to a situation where the team lacks motivation and fuel.”
WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A SUPERFINN?
Mikko Nurminen:
”The business idea needs to be good but a committed team is the foundation for everything. Even the greatest business ideas need a passionate and solution-centric team to succeed.”
Vesa Riihimäki:
”I want to see proof of traction and growth mindset. Open-minded teams that can execute have what it takes to be a SUPERFINN!”
Hanna Henell:
”The company’s product or service must address a real market need. A mere thought or growth plan is not enough on its own.”
ABOUT SUPERFINNS
SUPERFINNS is the next-level sparring program tailored for scalable Finnish SMEs. Whether you’re seeking advice on funding or internationalization, SUPERFINNS has got you covered.
”In SUPERFINNS, you get contacts and personal advice that can have a great impact on the company. Seasoned experts and entrepreneurs give you hands-on tips that are crucial when making decisions and expanding abroad. With a wide network, it’s easier to get access to funding, partnerships and customers”, says Mikko Nurminen.
SUPERFINNS PARTNERS 2025
- Vesa Riihimäki, Nordea Startup & Growth
- Julianna Borsos, Bocap
- Mikko Nurminen, Business angel
- Eeva Kovanen, Kovanen Capital
- Mika Kukkurainen, Nordic Foodtech VC
- Hanna Henell, Saari Partners
- Sami Ahvenniemi, Vendep Capital
- Pontus Stråhlman, Voima Ventures
The program is free of charge. The application period is open until 3.2.2025.
