Deadline Date: September 07, 2026
The Aalto Creatives Pre-incubator Programme is a structured entrepreneurship development initiative by Aalto University designed to support creative professionals in transforming early-stage ideas into viable business ventures.
The program focuses on entrepreneurial mindset development, service design, go-to-market strategy, funding literacy, intellectual property rights and idea protection, team building, branding, pitching skills, business model development, investor readiness, creative industry innovation, and demo-day presentation.
The pre-incubator is delivered twice a year, running from March to June and September to December, with the autumn 2026 intake open for applications until 7 September 2026 and the programme starting on 28 September 2026. It is an in-person programme based at Aalto University’s Otaniemi campus, with no remote participation option.
The programme begins by developing an entrepreneurial mindset, helping participants reframe creativity as a foundation for business development. It then progresses through practical business-building topics such as service design, go-to-market strategy, funding options, intellectual property protection, team building, and branding, before moving into pitching and presentation preparation.
Participants receive individual coaching sessions with business advisors throughout the programme. Early in the process, each participant books a one-on-one coaching session to work through tools such as the lean canvas and refine their business concept. Mentorship is tailored to individual needs, with access to experts from both creative industries and business and technology sectors.
The pitching phase focuses on developing investor-ready pitch decks and presentation skills. Participants receive structured feedback from experts and peers while preparing to communicate their ideas effectively to investors, collaborators, and customers.
The programme concludes with the Aalto Creatives Demo Day, where selected teams present their ideas to a panel of experts and the broader Aalto community. This event provides participants with an opportunity to test their concepts in a real-world setting and gain valuable feedback from industry stakeholders.
Eligibility for the programme includes individuals with a background in creative fields, either through education or professional experience. Relevant sectors include architecture, AR/VR/XR, arts, design, fashion, film and television, gaming, media, music, and sound. Applicants are not required to have prior business experience but must reside in the Helsinki capital region, including Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, or Kauniainen.
After completion, participants may choose to continue developing their ventures, form companies, or engage with alumni networks. Alumni support includes ongoing events and networking opportunities. Participants are also encouraged to connect with resources such as TiLA!, a workspace and service concept by Aalto University and the City of Espoo that supports creative entrepreneurs in Otaniemi.
For more information, visit Aalto Creatives.
