Helsinki: A global stage with a SLUSH(y) center

Over the past decade, Helsinki has transformed into one of Europe’s most dynamic and influential startup hubs. A legacy and ecosystem that have created unicorns like SuperCell, Wolt and Aiven and attracted large numbers of international founders, corporates and investors to explore its many opportunities. However, who in their right mind would travel to Helsinki in November?
The companies in Fukuoka City’s “Europe Mission” program, that’s who! 

At the center of Helsinki’s reputation is SLUSH, one of the world’s premier startup events. Founded in 2008 by a small group of entrepreneurs and students, SLUSH has since grown into an international gathering that attracts more than 13,000 participants each year, including founders, investors, corporate leaders, and policymakers. What sets SLUSH apart is not only its scale, but its unique culture: it is community-driven, highly curated, and deeply focused on connecting startups with the right partners to grow globally.

Market Entry and Local Support

For startups from Fukuoka, Japan, SLUSH offers a particularly compelling entry point. Participating in SLUSH means gaining immediate access to a network of European investors, potential partners, and innovation leaders that would otherwise take months or years to cultivate. The event’s matchmaking system, pitch competitions, and side-events create structured opportunities for startups to tell their stories, validate their ideas, and seek capital.

Helsinki’s broader ecosystem also strengthens the case for Japanese participation. Finland has consistently ranked among the top countries for innovation, R&D investment, and quality of life. The city’s universities and research institutes maintain close ties with industry, feeding a steady stream of talent into the entrepreneurial pipeline.

Key to accessing all of these opportunities is Helsinki Partners, the official city marketing, investment, and talent attraction organization. Helsinki Partners specializes in helping international businesses set up and scale in Finland by offering tailored services such as:

・　Guidance on market entry strategies and regulatory frameworks

・　Connections to local networks, including investors, potential customers, and research institutions

・　Support in talent acquisition and relocation for international teams

・　Insights into Helsinki’s sustainability initiatives, which are central to the city’s development goals

In preparation for the Europe Mission’s participation in SLUSH, Fukuoka City has partnered with Helsinki Partners to support the international expansion of local startups, and provide companies participating in the program with tailored matchmaking, access to events and pitching opportunities.

For Fukuoka, which has steadily built a reputation as one of Japan’s most forward-looking startup ecosystems, there are several potential benefits from engaging with Helsinki Partners and SLUSH:

・　Access to Capital: European investors are increasingly seeking opportunities in Asia, and Fukuoka startups can position themselves as attractive partners by presenting their technologies and business models at SLUSH.

・　Market Entry: Finland is often considered a testbed for new technologies, particularly in areas such as gaming, health tech, and clean tech. Fukuoka companies can leverage this environment to refine products and prepare for broader European expansion.

・　Cross-Ecosystem Collaboration: Helsinki’s emphasis on sustainability, digitalization, and societal impact aligns closely with many of Fukuoka’s innovation priorities. Joint projects, pilot programs, and talent exchanges can emerge naturally from these shared values.

・　Global Visibility: By joining SLUSH, Fukuoka startups and delegations can raise their profile not only in Europe but also globally, as the event attracts stakeholders from North America, the Middle East, and beyond.

Conclusion

In many ways, the relationship between Fukuoka and Helsinki represents a natural partnership. Both cities have deliberately positioned themselves as innovation-driven, internationally connected hubs outside the traditional capitals. Both are places where startup founders can thrive in supportive environments without losing sight of quality of life.
So despite the seemingly weird decision to go to Finland in November, there are benefits to be had for “badasses” that dare to take that step!

About the Program

The Europe Mission is part of Fukuoka’s broader efforts to position itself as Asia’s gateway to global innovation. By supporting local startups with overseas expansion and cross-border partnerships, the city reinforces its role as a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem builders

Zero-Ten Park, operator of the mission, will provide program management, matchmaking support, and coordination with local governments, investors, and industry leaders in Europe.

For more details, visit the Fukuoka City official program page.

There is no I in Fukuoka but there is a U!

Feel free to drop by anytime or shoot us a message. We look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on this exciting and wonderful journey.

Global Business Support

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00-17:00 (Days closed : Sundays and Holidays)

Location:

Fukuoka Growth Next (FGN)

Fukuoka Growth Next 1F, 2 Chome-6-11 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka 810-0041

As there is no on-site parking or bicycle parking available, we kindly ask that you utilize nearby parking facilities or bicycle parking areas.

Cambridge Innovation Center（CIC）

ONE FUKUOKA BLDG. 7F, 1-11-1 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka 810-0001

Please use the contact form on our website to make an inquiry.