What the Heck Is Entrepreneurship? Apply by 21 September for the University of Helsinki’s Pathways Programme

The deadline to join the next Pathways Pre-Incubator is next Monday, 21 September. For University of Helsinki staff, researchers, students and alumni with a problem, idea or research they want to explore further, this is the final chance to apply.

You don’t need to have a company (or even a finished business idea) to take part.

Pathways is designed for the early, uncertain stage of an idea: when you have identified a problem, developed research that could have applications beyond academia, or simply have a curiosity about what might be possible. Over two months, participants work through the practical steps of testing an idea, gathering feedback, communicating it clearly and figuring out whether, and how, to take it forward.

But the value of Pathways is not only in developing an idea. Participants often highlight the people they meet along the way: a diverse and international group of peers, new opportunities to collaborate and network, and practical skills that stay useful well beyond the programme, from presenting your ideas and asking for feedback, to working in teams and navigating unfamiliar problems.

For doctoral researchers in particular, the programme can be a space to explore what happens when research leaves the page and meets a potential user, customer or real-world problem. For staff and alumni, it can also be a chance to develop an idea alongside your existing work or explore entrepreneurship as a possible next step.

The programme is free and takes place in person at the city center campus of the University of Helsinki from 3 October to 7 December 2026. Participants can also earn 5 ECTS through course PHD-312, including as transferable skills studies for BA, MA students, and Doctoral Researchers.

And your starting point doesn’t have to be your final one. Ideas can change, teams can form around new ideas, and some projects may turn out not to be viable, that is part of the process.

Applications close on 21 September 2026 at 23:59 EEST. Apply to Pathways and learn more here!

Questions? Send us a message at incubators@helsinki.fi