The freedom to pursue research and the opportunity to bring together skills from different disciplines is a recipe for innovations that can change the world.
The University of Helsinki aspires to rank among Europe's top innovation universities. Each year, its sustained research efforts generate over 120 invention disclosures, some of which are subsequently developed into commercialisable technologies.
Research conducted at the University has given rise to more than 30 spinouts, which have collectively raised over €180 million and hold a market value exceeding €300 million. Active patent families number around 70.
Since 2022, the University's startup programmes have supported over 700 teams, leading to the creation of more than 100 startups that have collectively raised over €20 million in funding.
Financial growth through university-based innovations
"Finland urgently needs economic growth, and I firmly believe that innovations originating at universities can make a real difference. We must seize this opportunity by investing in research and innovation more than ever, so that together we can create a sustainable and competitive future for Finland," says Chief Financial Officer Marjo Berglund of the University of Helsinki.
At present, many newly established companies struggle to secure initial funding.
"It's vital to ensure that innovation receives the necessary funding so that the best ideas receive the support and resources they need. The University of Helsinki will increase its investments in University-based companies by up to €10 million," she states.
Focus on the brain and AI
The University is participating in Slush for the 11th time. Here are the groundbreaking projects presented this year:
Retrieving data manually takes a substantial amount of time in all organisations. delivers a remedy: a no-code platform that transforms existing information systems, enabling the secure automation of routine tasks and improving both efficiency and user experience.
Epilepsy affects around 50 million people worldwide. Despite advances in treatment, approximately 30% of patients do not respond to anti-seizure medication. is developing a pioneering pharmaceutical therapy for severe epilepsy, offering hope to those who do not benefit from currently available treatments.
is developing a rapid test to distinguish between strokes and cerebral haemorrhages. This would make it possible to start thrombolytic therapy in the ambulance, giving patients a better chance of recovery.
Although many cancers metastasise, current methods often fail to detect these metastases at an early stage. is developing a tool designed to identify metastases earlier, enabling more effective cancer treatment.
The commercialised projects have been supported by Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd, the University's technology transfer and commercialisation company
Y Science - Slush's biggest life science event
On 19 November, Slush's opening day, brings together researchers, startups, investors and representatives from business and other organisations to explore life science solutions. Expect inspiring discussions, innovation showcases and pitching competitions. Y Science is a Slush Signature Life Science Side Event organised annually by the University of Helsinki's Helsinki Institute of Life Science (HiLIFE). Participation is free, subject to registration.
Welcome to our section at Slush!
We are delighted to present our innovations and give you the opportunity to meet both the researchers behind them and our research commercialisation specialists. Join us to learn more about new investment opportunities and ways to collaborate with the University of Helsinki.
