Startups, let us help you skip the middleman.

After conducting our Smart Business, Big Impact survey, to gain insight as to what kind of challenges startups face in the procurement process, we outlined three key issues: a) pilot testing is treated as voluntary charity work, b) current procurement practices are lengthy and bureaucratic and c) only stable, established actors are considered for procurement. These unrealistic standards for startups result in a wealth of innovative solutions going unused.

As a pledge to lower the threshold for startups to sell directly to potential buyers, the Smart Business, Big Impact initiative is bringing a unique pitching event to life, looking to break the rigid conventions in the ecosystem. By embracing the Venture Client model, we’re challenging traditional norms by mobilizing large organizations to procure, utilize, and integrate startup solutions into their business strategies, unlocking crucial benefits such as agility and sustainable growth.

Instead of pitching to investors to secure funding, why not present your innovations directly to those who matter most: potential customers? It’s time to move further down the procurement process and pitch your solution to buyers. Join us for an exclusive event organized with KIRAHub, KIRA-kasvuohjelma, and the JAVIST project partly co-funded by the European Union under the Smart Business, Big Impact initiative, comprised of two sections:

• A pitching event on the 21st of August at Mordor (A Grid) from 13-15, with an esteemed jury of major stakeholders in the built construction sector working to provide you with direct feedback on how to attract buyers for your solution.
• A speed dating event on the 4th of September at Jedi Training School (A Grid) from 13-15, where you will receive further guidance on how to score pilot testing opportunities and further progress your solution with our jury members.

The jury panel will consist of representatives from major stakeholders such as YIT, ACRE, and DENSO, with more companies waiting to be announced.

Apply now for our unique pitching event at A Grid, with industry leaders present both on the jury panel and in the audience, to gain direct guidance from decision-makers, validate your solution with potential buyers, and seize the opportunity to become an industry innovator.

Click here for the registration form for startups. The deadline to apply as a startup is the 8th of August; only 20 startups will be chosen for the event.

Click here for the registration form for attendees wanting to watch the pitching event.