Susicorn Startup Competition Timeline

Phase 1: Entry (1–31 January 2026)

The official Susicorn Competition Form opens on this page on 1 January 2026 at 00:00.

To access the form, select the checkbox “Start your registration” below. The competition form will remain open until 31 January 2026 at 23:59.

Download the official Susicorn Pitch Deck Template from the Enter the Susicorn Startup Competition tab.

Complete the template with your startup pitch and upload it in the designated upload section of the competition form by 31 January 2026 at 23:59.

Phase 2: Finalist Selection (by 15 February 2026) 

The six finalists will be announced by 15 February 2026.

Business Joensuu’s evaluation jury will review all eligible submissions and select the finalists based on the official competition criteria.

Phase 3: Pitch Coaching (26 February 2026)

Pitch coaching for the finalists will take place on 26 February 2026.

Business Joensuu’s coaches will provide guidance and support to help finalists refine and strengthen their pitches ahead of the competition final.

Phase 4: Susicorn Startup Competition Final: Pitch for the Brightest (27 March 2026)

The Susicorn Startup Competition Final will be held live at the SOHJO Business Event on 27 March 2026 in Joensuu. 

During the final, the six selected finalists will take the stage to pitch their startups to the Susicorn jury. One startup will be selected and crowned Susicorn 2026 - a future growth company with international scaling potential emerging from the greater Joensuu region.