Kerala Startup Mission Signs Agreement with Business Finland to Enhance Startup Ecosystems

In a bid to fortify startup ecosystems in both India and Finland, Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) has entered into a partnership with Business Finland, a key player under the Ministry of Employment and the Economy. For six years, Business Finland has been actively engaged in initiatives aimed at attracting trade, tourism, foreign investment, and fostering innovation through financial support.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between KSUM and the Finnish governmental organization was formally signed in Helsinki this week. The agreement aims to establish a framework for sustained collaboration, encouraging the exchange of information and knowledge concerning startup ecosystems in both nations.

The strategic alliance, solidified during the 'Slush 2023' event held in the Finnish capital from November 30 to December 1, will serve as a crucial link promoting innovation and market access within the startup ecosystems. The collaborative effort is anticipated to create a robust startup bridge, providing growth prospects and collaborative opportunities across diverse domains.

KSUM, in its proactive approach, sent a delegation of top-tier startups to Slush 2023. The objective was to explore potential collaborations on initiatives that directly impact skilling, research, startups, investment, and business development. Slush 2023, known as a founder-focused event, attracted 13,000 creative minds, including 5,000 startups, 3,000 investors, and 300 media representatives.

The collaboration platform, Kerala Finland Innovation Corridor, established under the MoU, is set to play a pivotal role in executing various initiatives by both organizations. These initiatives go beyond startup acceleration, encompassing research cooperation, joint events, communication, marketing, and more. A symbolic exchange of the MoU took place between a KSUM volunteer and Business Finland Senior Director Laura Lindeman.

As outlined in the agreement, both parties will organize webinars, seminars, and conferences to promote events. Detailed modalities for visits, programs, and activities will be worked out through mutual discussions, further strengthening the collaborative efforts between Kerala Startup Mission and Business Finland.

HBL