Business Finland support
Discover the grants, funding, innovation support, and internationalization services offered by Business Finland.
Business Finland overview
Business Finland is the Finnish government agency for innovation funding and trade, investment, and travel promotion. It provides grants, loans, and expert services to help Finnish companies innovate, grow, and expand internationally. Business Finland is a key partner for startups and SMEs seeking to scale globally.
- Provides grants and loans for R&D, innovation, and internationalization
- Supports companies from early-stage startups to established exporters
- Also responsible for evaluating startup visa applications
Funding programs
Business Finland offers a range of funding instruments for different stages and types of business development.
- Sprint grant for Finnish limited companies with fewer than 50 employees (requires at least EUR 50,000 of equity investment and two committed people); the earlier Tempo funding closed on 3 October 2025
- R&D loans and grants for developing innovative products, services, or processes
- Deep Tech Accelerator for deep-tech startups; check current calls at businessfinland.fi
- Co-funding typically requires the company to finance 50% or more of the project
Innovation support
Business Finland helps companies develop innovative solutions through expert services and networks.
- Expert advisors help refine business models and innovation strategies
- Access to research collaboration with Finnish universities and VTT Technical Research Centre
- Support for intellectual property protection and patent strategy
- Innovation ecosystem connections including accelerators and incubators
Internationalization support
Business Finland helps Finnish companies enter and grow in international markets.
- Market-specific guidance for key export destinations worldwide
- Trade missions and delegation trips to connect with potential partners
- Export readiness assessments and go-to-market strategy support
- Network of Finnish Trade Centers and offices in over 30 countries
Application process
Applying for Business Finland support follows a structured process.
- Contact Business Finland early: they prefer to engage before the formal application
- Applications are submitted through the Business Finland online portal
- Processing times vary from a few weeks (smaller grants) to several months (large R&D grants)
- Detailed project plans, budgets, and team descriptions are required for most funding
Key considerations
Tips for working with Business Finland effectively.
- Engage with a Business Finland advisor before submitting your application
- Business Finland funding is competitive, ensure your innovation angle is clear
- Co-funding requirements mean you need your own capital or other financing in place
- Reporting obligations are thorough: budget time for project reporting and audits
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