Businesses in Finland today are not just chasing profits—they’re building solutions that create lasting social and environmental impact. The Baltic Impact Accelerator (BIA) is at the forefront of this movement, supporting ambitious Finnish startups that are ready to scale internationally while embracing sustainability. With applications now open for its third cohort, BIA offers a unique opportunity for companies looking to expand into the Swedish, Estonian, and Latvian markets and collaborate with like-minded startups from these countries.
An Accelerator with Purpose
The Central Baltic region is full of growth opportunities, but expanding into international markets requires more than just ambition. Many startups struggle with limited resources, lack of market knowledge, and difficulty in finding the right partners. That’s where BIA steps in.
Funded by the European Union’s Interreg funding, this six-month virtual program provides startups with tailored training, mentorship, and connections to help them establish a presence in new markets. What sets BIA apart from traditional accelerators is its commitment to the Triple Bottom Line methodology, ensuring that businesses focus not only on profit but also on people and the planet.
Since its launch in 2023, BIA has already helped 50+ startups from participating countries refine their business models, international strategies, and sustainability practices. Now, Finnish companies have the last chance to join this dynamic community and take their businesses to the next level.
Who Should Apply?
The third (and last) cohort of BIA is looking for Finnish startups and small businesses that:
- Are 2–5 years old, with an established product or service, and first paying customers.
- Have a minimum of two co-founders and a clear ambition to scale.
- Are eager to expand into Sweden, Estonia, or Latvia and strengthen their market position.
- Have already taken steps towards sustainability or are committed to doing so.
For companies that fit this profile, BIA offers an invaluable launchpad for international growth. The Finnish companies that graduated from the first and the second cohorts are: BioVaaka, Energy Plus Engineering, iQneiform, Kymi-Solar, Oppi AI, Spacer, Wuoma, VeryU, CodeMenders, Gigle, Omni Audio and HappyFam.
What’s in It for You?
Companies selected for BIA’s third cohort will receive up to €8,000 in support per company, including €4,000 worth of expert-led training in areas such as market entry, fundraising, and sustainable business development. An additional €4,000 can be allocated for the necessary services related to product development, advertising, or market testing. As a result, BIA graduates are equipped with connections to an international business network with key players in Sweden, Estonia, and Latvia and real-world strategies to scale internationally and secure long-term success.
A Cross-Border Collaboration
BIA is made possible through a strong international partnership. LUT University’s Business School in Finland implements the program alongside key partners from across the Central Baltic region:
- Estonian Cleantech Association (Estonia) – Driving sustainable business growth and innovation.
- Sustainability InnoCenter (Sweden) – Supporting startups in embedding sustainability into their core strategies.
- Latvian Chamber of Commerce (Latvia) – Helping companies establish a foothold in the Latvian market and beyond.
- Green and Smart Technology Cluster (Latvia) – Building cooperation between companies and research, educational, and knowledge transfer organizations at the local and international levels.
As the Finnish partner, LUT Business School brings deep expertise in business development, internationalization, and sustainability, making it a strong support system for Finnish startups looking to expand.
How to Apply?
Applying is simple! The application deadline is April 17, 2025. Here’s how the process works: Submit your application online via this link.
Twelve to fifteen shortlisted companies per country will be invited for interviews.
The final twelve companies per country will be selected for the accelerator. If chosen, you’ll gain access to BIA’s exclusive online platform.
The program officially kicks off in June 2025.
For more information, please contact us at anna.vuorio@lut.fi
This article was created in collaboration with LUT University and Baltic Impact Accelerator.
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Read the orginal article: https://arcticstartup.com/baltic-impact-accelerator/
