28.6.–15.8. | Turku
What is Startup Journey?
Startup Journey is an intensive 8-week startup accelerator program designed to help early-stage startups take a huge step forward in their development. Over the course of the program, you'll work closely with experienced mentors and industry experts to refine your business idea, create a prototype, conduct market research, and prepare for launch. At the end of the program, you'll have the opportunity to pitch your startup to investors and continue developing your idea with ongoing support and guidance from the Startup Journey community.
Join us on this exciting journey to turn your startup idea into a reality!
Application opens 1.2.2024
In first stage we only need a motivation letter, so don’t worry about having a fixed idea or team
Apply fast! We can help you crafting the idea and teaming up before the program starts
Are you ready to get serious about your startup?
Startup Journey is an early-stage startup accelerator taking place every summer. The goal of the program is to enable you and your team to take a huge step forward in your startup’s early development. This usually means creating a prototype, making a ton of testings, launching your product and getting your first round of investment.
This year Startup Journey is an on-site program taking place in Turku from 28 June until 15 August 2024.
What you need to apply:
🚀 Scalable startup idea - having done research on the competitive landscape and gathering initial traction from potential customers and partners boosts your chances of being accepted.
💙 Committed team - full-time commitment from at least one of the founders for the summer. The more team members can work full-time on the startup, the better is your chance at being accepted.
☄️ Motivation - the more passion the better!
100%
Participants from 2021 would recommend others to join
100+
Alumni startups
110+
Mentors taking part in Startup Journey 2021
AMAZING NETWORK OF COACHES & MENTORS
PROGRAM
Weekly themes
#1 Idea Evaluation & Team Development 🧠
#2 Customer Validation / Product-Market-Fit 🎯
#3 Business Model & Strategy 📊
#4 MVP & Product Development 🛠️
#5 Traction and Growth 📈
#6 Sales & Marketing 📣
#7 Funding & Finances 💰
#8 Pitching & Demo Day Week 🎤
Weekly schedule
Monday
10.00–12.00 Progress Update & Team Coaching
13.00—15.00 workshop
Tuesday
10.00–12.00 Workshop
13.00–15.00 Pitching Workshop
Wednesday
10.00–12.00 Mentoring Session (online)
Workshop (online) or working on startup
Thursday
Working on startup
BOOSTCAMP kick-off weekend
The main goal of the Boostcamp is to spend an exciting and productive weekend together in the beautiful Turku archipelago.
FAQs
Is the program really free?
Yes it is! And we do not take any equity from your startup. How come? Because Boost is a non-profit association supported by different partners.
Do I need to have a fully formed team to apply?
No, you can apply with just an idea and form a team before the program starts. However, having a committed team in place will improve your chances of being accepted. It will be more difficult for you to successfully go through the program alone and usually we encourage 1-member teams to look for co-founders to make sure that you have all skills needed to make your startup happen. But in some cases, we do accept 1-member teams.
My team is not situated in Turku - can I apply?
Yes, even though Startup Journey is a Turku-based accelerator and we are mostly looking for Turku-based teams, we do accept a number of teams from different cities.
Will I need to relocate to Turku for the program?
Yes, the program takes place on-site in Turku, so you'll need to be able to relocate there for the duration of the program.
Is this program only for tech startups?
No, you can apply with just an idea and form a team during the program. However, having a committed team in place will improve your chances of being accepted.
What kind of mentorship and support can I expect?
You'll have access to experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts who will provide hands-on guidance and support throughout the program. You'll also receive workshops and training sessions to help you develop your business idea.
What are the requirements to apply?
You'll need a scalable startup idea, a committed team, and plenty of motivation and passion for your idea. Also your team needs to be commited to participate the workshops during the program.
How much funding can I expect to receive?
The program does not guarantee funding, but you'll have the opportunity to pitch to investors at the end and during the program. The amount of funding you receive will depend on the strength of your pitch and the interest of the investors.
What kind of networking opportunities will be available?
You'll have the opportunity to network with other startups in the program, as well as with mentors and industry experts. We'll also be hosting various events and activities throughout the program to help you connect with other members of the startup community.
Will I have access to office space during the program?
Yes, you'll have access to co-working space in Turku during the program. We'll also provide you with all the necessary tools and resources you'll need to develop your business idea.
What happens after the program ends?
After the program ends, you'll have the opportunity to pitch your business idea to investors and continue developing your startup. We'll also provide ongoing support and guidance to help you take your startup to the next level.
I am a student, will I get credits?
Yes, as a student in Turku based higher education institutions you are eligible to get up to 15 credits from Boost Startup Journey.