Have a promising idea but need support to take the first step? The PoC Grant helps students and researchers in Turku turn early-stage ideas into real-world concepts. Use the funding to cover up to three months of living costs and expenses related to developing and testing your Proof of Concept. All you need is a clear idea, a motivated team, and a plan. Already in an incubator or accelerator? That gives your application a boost!
More information from the pre-screening committee:
Pilot of the Proof of Concept (PoC)Grant in Turku, aimed at strengthening the early development and assessment of commercial viability of student- and researcher-driven business ideas emerging from Turku-based higher education institutions (University of Turku, Åbo Akademi, Turku University of Applied Sciences, Yrkeshögskolan Novia, HUMAK). The piloted model aims to test and commercialize innovative business ideas that have potential for new kinds of growth.
A Proof of Concept (PoC) is a small-scale test or early version of a business idea, product, or service, created to demonstrate that it is feasible and has potential value. The goal is to validate key assumptions, reduce uncertainty, and gather early feedback before committing to full development or market launch.
The PoC Grant—up to €6,000 per team or idea, even if multiple applicants are involved—can be used to cover approximately three months of living expenses for one person and costs related to developing and/or testing your Proof-of-Concept.
Funding: Individual Proof of Concept (PoC) grants are up to €6,000 per idea.
Total Budget: The City of Turku has allocated a maximum of €40,000 for PoC grants in 2025. A separate decision will be made regarding the continuation of the pilot and its funding beyond 2025.
Funding Source: The funding comes from the City of Turku’s existing RDI (Research, Development and Innovation) voucher system, which has an annual budget of €100,000.
Application Process: The process is coordinated by a dedicated steering group consisting of representatives from Business Turku, Boost Turku, and Monttu Ventures. The steering group proposes selected business ideas for funding to the City of Turku’s vitality leadership team. Funding decisions are made 2–3 times per year in the future.