This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Maria 01, a Helsinki-based startup hub, has a new leader at the helm, Sarita Runeberg, who steps into the role of CEO. Runeberg is renowned for her successful efforts in expanding Finnish businesses on the global stage, making her a fitting choice to steer Maria 01 into a new era marked by innovation and growth. This startup hub has played a pivotal role in the Finnish startup ecosystem, accommodating more than 180 startups and nurturing a vibrant community of over 1,500 members, including investors and corporate partners. Over the years, these startups have collectively secured over 700 million euros in funding, and Maria 01 is now embarking on an expansion plan that will welcome up to 600 new startups. Runeberg’s appointment is seen as a strategic move aimed at transforming Maria 01 into one of Europe’s largest startup hubs, all while continuing to align with the growth strategy of the City of Helsinki.
With a notable track record in taking Finnish businesses to international markets, Sarita Runeberg is set to steer Maria 01 into a promising new era, building upon the company’s successful achievements in managing the Nordics’ leading startup campus and community. Runeberg’s previous roles at Smartly.io, the world’s largest SaaS digital advertising platforms, and Reaktor, a global technology company designing and building digital products and services, have been marked by an unwavering dedication to fostering innovation, driving growth and leading teams to success. This is exactly the kind of attitude and leadership Maria 01 was on the lookout for to continue its mission of providing the best possible environment for startups to grow.
Runeberg expressed their enthusiasm for starting in their new role, stating “I am honoured to join the Maria 01 team and committed to leading this exceptional company and community towards a bright future. Maria 01 has an exciting history of innovation and a one-of-a-kind sense of belongingness, and I am excited to work with the talented team and ecosystem to build upon this foundation.”
The new CEO will not only have a prominent role in accelerating Maria 01 on its path towards becoming one of Europe’s biggest startup hubs but likewise continue to support the City of Helsinki’s strategy as a Place of Growth.
“We are thrilled to welcome Sarita as our new CEO. Sarita’s extensive experience and vision align perfectly with the mission and direction we envision for Maria 01. We are confident that this appointment will pave the way for continued growth and innovation,” says Jarmo Hyökyvaara, Chair of the Maria 01 Board,
On the road to becoming Europe’s largest startup hub
Over the past seven years, Maria 01 has grown into one of the leading startup hubs in Europe, gaining a prominent role in the thriving Finnish startup ecosystem. Maria 01 was founded in 2016, and is today the home to over 180 startups, facilitating an over 1500-member strong community together with investors, corporate partners and ecosystem organisations. Over the course of its seven-year history, the hub’s startups have collected more than 700 million euros in funding, while playing an important role in creating jobs, taxable income and working towards establishing a more international working environment.
The growth of Maria 01 shows no signs of stopping. While eagerly waiting for the number for 2023, the hub’s startups raised a record-breaking total of 219 million euros in funding in 2022. In the near future, the startup campus is set to expand its current 20,000 sq m space to 70,000 sq m, aiming to attract up to 600 new startups joining the community.
The Interview with Sarita Runeberg
With the article providing an insightful overview of the exciting developments at Maria 01 and the vision of the new CEO, Sarita Runeberg, it’s time to delve deeper into her perspective and plans for the future. We had the privilege of sitting down with Sarita to ask her some important questions about her background, strategies, and priorities. Let’s jump into the interview:
Congratulations again, Sarita! Can you share a bit more about your background and what sparked your interest in taking up the CEO role at Maria 01? What led you here?
Thank you! I’m really very excited about this opportunity! My background is a bit different from the typical CEO. I have a Master’s Degree in Political Science and worked in the Finnish Parliament for a few years. However, the fast-paced nature of tech startups drew me in, leading me to join Smartly.io at an early stage. I saw firsthand how a small startup could become a global success, which left a lasting mark on me. I later worked at Reaktor, gaining experience in the gaming industry.
When I heard that Maria 01 was looking for a CEO, I knew I was the perfect fit. I believe in the power of innovation and the startup ecosystem, and Maria 01’s mission aligns with my vision for the tech industry. I believe that it’s not just about individual companies succeeding but about creating an environment that nurtures innovation and collaboration. That’s what Maria 01 stands for, and I’m eager to be a part of its growth and the positive impact it can make on the tech community.
My background in political science has also been an asset. It’s helped me understand the importance of collaboration, diplomacy, and effective communication, which are all crucial in a leadership role. The combination of my political science background and my experience in tech and gaming has provided a unique perspective that I hope will contribute to Maria 01’s success.
I’m eager to lead Maria 01 and work with its talented startups to shape the future, fostering an environment where great ideas can thrive.
Speaking of your background and the unique path that brought you here, considering your remarkable experience and evident passion for innovation and growth, we’re eager to know how you plan to channel these principles into leading Maria 01 toward a new era of success. Could you give us a glimpse into your strategy?
Absolutely! First and foremost, my experience has taught me the value of fostering an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. Maria 01 is already a thriving hub for startups, but I intend to further expand and diversify the ecosystem. This includes attracting more startups from various industries, both from Finland and abroad, and providing them with the resources and support they need to grow. I also have ideas about thought leadership and how Maria 01 could play a more active role in public discussions related to startups and the tech scene.
In essence, my strategy revolves around strengthening Maria 01’s role as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and positive change. I’m dedicated to further fostering an environment where startups can flourish, and where we can contribute to the advancement of the tech industry and society as a whole.
Maria 01 has been a significant player in the Finnish startup scene. Transitioning from your background and strategy, how do you envision your role in propelling the company toward becoming one of Europe’s largest startup hubs? And how will this support Helsinki’s growth strategy?
I see my role at Maria 01 as pivotal in enhancing the organisation’s global presence. As the CEO, I will leverage my expertise in building and scaling international businesses to benefit Maria 01. Collaborating with our exceptional team, we will actively work to establish international partnerships, attract global startups, investors, and partners to Maria 01, and help our startups access global markets. Making our vibrant community more well-known internationally is key to not only growing Maria 01 and elevating our profile internationally, but also contributing to positioning Helsinki as an attractive city for individuals looking to relocate and launch their own companies. By fostering a thriving, diverse, and innovative startup ecosystem, we aim to make Helsinki a prominent player in the European tech scene and a city where entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts want to be.
As the new CEO, moving forward, what are your key priorities for the upcoming year? How do you foresee these priorities contributing to the overall growth and innovation at Maria 01 and within the broader ecosystem?
My key priorities as the new CEO for the upcoming year are centered on further scaling our activities and expanding our business. First, I want to gain a deep understanding of our current operational processes and ensure that we are doing everything possible to guarantee that our startups have the resources, mentorship, and funding they need to succeed. Their success directly contributes to the vitality of the ecosystem and innovation. Additionally, international outreach will be a significant focus for me in the upcoming year. By nurturing a diverse and vibrant community, building and fostering international connections, and actively supporting startups, we will create a dynamic environment where innovation flourishes.
As you step into your role as CEO and consider these priorities, there’s undoubtedly a lot of excitement within the existing Maria 01 community, among startup founders, and your partners. What message would you like to convey to them about the exciting opportunities and the direction you’re steering the organization under your leadership?
I would like to convey them a message of enthusiasm and shared vision. The path ahead is filled with exciting opportunities, and together, we will continue to be a driving force in the tech and startup ecosystem, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. The energy and innovative spirit I have already witnessed at Maria 01 are the cornerstones of our success, and I am eager to work alongside all of you to take Maria 01 to new heights. I am dedicated to making Maria 01 an even more dynamic hub, where every startup can thrive, and where business and sustainability go hand in hand. Together, we will amplify Maria 01’s impact on the European startup scene, leveraging also the expertise and resources of our amazing partners. Our journey is filled with exciting opportunities, and I look forward to fortifying Maria 01 as the place where great ideas come to life.
Thank you for your time, Sarita. We are eager to see the positive impact you’ll bring.
Teşekkürler, Nurçin! Thank you for the interview!
Read the orginal article: https://arcticstartup.com/maria01s-new-ceo-sarita-runeberg/
