We support startups in pretty much anything related to early-stage. Whether it is iterating your idea, developing and launching your product, gaining traction, scaling your business, or specific topics like legal, funding, marketing and sales, we got you covered.

- We take zero equity and our programs are free of charge. We have no industry limitations either.

- We are well-connected. Our broad network consists of entrepreneurs, investors, clients, students, and all the relevant players in the Finnish startup ecosystem.

- We have a unique position in the scene. Unlike many accelerators and VCs, Kiuas supports founders also in their most earliest stages.

- The level of the programs is always aiming for the stars. We carefully pick all our coaches and partners and the programs are constantly developed.

- Kiuas is founded and ran by students.

Not directly from us - however, Kiuas has a broad network of angel investors and VCs who are regularly represented in our programs in terms of mentoring and hosting workshops.

We believe that it is best for the startups to keep the programs non-equity and free of charge. Furthermore, our operating bases heavily on the giving back mentality - e.g. our coaches are all involved completely pro bono.

We are supported by our partners and public organizations.

Kiuas was founded in 2017 on the legacy of Summer of Startups, which has been organized by Aaltoes since 2010. In late 2018, Kiuas started operating as a separate entity.

Our core team consists of 3 people. The startups are supported by our coaches, some of which are highlighted here.

We are always open to having a chat, so shoot us a message!

Kiuas (in English: a stove) is a central and key part of a Sauna. Kiuas is the furnace that generates the heat. It makes the Sauna hot.

Our programs are meant for early-stage startups and teams from all industries. Most of our companies are based in Finland but we may accept foreign startups into our programs as well.

If you have trouble figuring out if you should apply to Kiuas, shoot us a message and let’s have a chat! Even if applying is not relevant for you at the moment, we are always eager to meet new founders and see if we can help in some way.

Prior to each program, we run a 1-2 month long application period. During this time, startups can apply online and get selected for interviews determining which teams will be chosen. On average, 50% of the interviewed teams make the cut.

- In Start, the focus is on validating your idea and developing your product. We don’t require an established company nor you being full-time on your startup yet. No idea is too early if you’re committed to put in the hours to take it forward!

- In Accelerator, the focus is on further topics such as product-market-fit, sales, growth, marketing, and different aspects of raising funding. We also help the startups to gain visibility by utilizing our channels and gettingto pitch at the Demo Day. Your company must be registered by the time program starts.

Having trouble to decide which is the right program for you? Shoot us a message and we can together discuss which one suits you better.

We typically choose 15-20 teams for each batch of Start and Accelerator.

Yes! In that case, make sure you're capable of taking the first steps yourself while not missing any crucial parts of your team (e.g. a technical person).

Yes! Our alumni from Kiuas Start often proceed to the Accelerator program. However, a normal application procedure is always required.

Our programs take place in the Startup Sauna co-working space in Otaniemi, Espoo, Finland. Startup Sauna is open for everyone and you are always welcome to drop by! We share the space with Aaltoes, Junction & Startuplifers and a handful of startups.
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You can find more info about the space here.

In Start, the program is organized during evenings and weekends. In Accelerator, the program is organized in varied schedules, but mostly on weekdays and inside normal working hours. In both programs, there are around 2-3 active program days each week consisting of weeklies, 1-on-1 mentoring, workshops, keynotes etc.

In general, the programs are intensive but there is plenty of time to work on your company as well.

Yes. Once the program starts you should be located in Finland (preferably in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area)

Yes! The Startup Sauna co-working space is open to everyone and you can stay here as long as you want.

Read more about what happens after the program below!

We support our alumni in various ways. We are always eager to help and will stay regularly in touch - whether it’s an intro to an investor, help with recruiting or just wanting to test ideas with someone, we got you!