The Startup Deal Vantaa program, starting in early 2026, brings together Vantaa’s SMEs and agile startup solution providers from across Finland. The city of Vantaa aims to support the renewal of local businesses and provide startups with a direct path to clients
“SMEs are key players in every region as we seek growth and internationalization. Our goal in Vantaa is to collide our more traditional SMEs with innovations and startups, thus creating entirely new growth paths,” states Olli-Pekka MĂ€kirintala, head of startup operations in Vantaa.
With the help of Startup Deal Vantaa, startups find paying clients in Vantaa and get to test their solutions directly in the everyday operations of companies. The program progresses in three rounds during 2026:
Round 1: FebruaryâMarch
Round 2: MarchâMay
Round 3: AugustâNovember
We are now looking for SMEs to provide real business challenges for startups
For each round, two Vantaa-based SMEs will be selected first, which have a genuine and clear business development need. The challenge may relate to, for example, improving operations, testing new technology, or promoting a business opening.
âStartup Deal Vantaa is made for all SMEs, including traditional sectors. It’s easy to get involved. The challenge can be straightforward or open,â says Mikko Korpela from Crazy Town.
After this, the program seeks 6-10 startups that have potential solutions to these challenges. Startups can come from anywhere in Finland or the world.
Startup Deal Vantaa supports clarifying needs, connecting suitable parties, and initiating trials. The SME selects the most promising solution they would like to continue with. The program implementer, Crazy Town, also grants funding for trials to the selected startup solution providers, aimed at encouraging both parties to initiate collaboration.
Benefits for SMEs and startups
For SMEs, Startup Deal Vantaa offers a low-threshold opportunity to leverage the expertise of startups. The company gains access to fresh perspectives, new operating models, and solutions that can lead to improved operations or entirely new openings.
For startups, the program provides direct access to corporate clients and the opportunity to test and develop their solutions in a real usage environment. The trials yield valuable customer feedback, references, and ideally long-term partnerships.
The trial funding helps take the first step for SMEs and startups. Participation in the program is free of charge.
Vantaa is an international marketplace
Vantaa offers a unique operating environment where internationality is part of everyday life. The proximity to the airport, Finland’s leading logistics hub, and several top clusters provide an excellent platform for companies aiming for growth and international markets.
âA lot is happening in Vantaa right now, and very often in an international environment. In startup matters, we focus on concrete actions and direct activities. Many parties benefit from this work, and Finland needs speed and action right now,â says Tommo Koivusalo, the Director of Vitality in Vantaa.
The program implementer Crazy Town connects startups from outside the capital region as part of Vantaa’s business ecosystem. Crazy Town’s extensive national community and support help startups find their place in Vantaa and possibly expand their operations in the area more permanently.
SME: apply now!
Startup Deal Vantaa is looking for development-minded Vantaa-based SMEs to start with. If your company has an identified challenge, the program offers an opportunity to turn it into growth.
Contact us for more information: Mikko Korpela, +358 40 049 9242, mikko.korpela@crazytown.fi
The program is implemented by Crazy Town Oy on behalf of the City of Vantaa. Crazy Town is a leading Finnish business community with over 400 growth companies as its members. Crazy Town also implements various programs for entrepreneurship and innovation. www.crazytown.fi
