Acceleration Program "KSAC Finland Program 2026" for Researchers Aiming for Overseas Expansion Now Accepting Applications

https://ksac.site/215/

The Kansai Startup Academia-Core Coalition (KSAC), a platform for creating university-launched startups in the Kansai region, managed by the Osaka Industry Bureau, is holding the "KSAC Finland Program 2026" for researchers from participating universities in collaboration with Finnish support organizations.

The first destination, Espoo, is an innovation hub with strengths in deep tech, home to cutting-edge research and support institutions such as Aalto University, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Enter Espoo, and Crazy Town. Over 1,500 high-tech companies are concentrated in the city, with approximately 100 startups being born there annually. (※)

Espoo has established systematic programs and know-how for commercializing research seeds, and possesses a certain understanding of the challenges researchers face in commercialization. Participants will explore possibilities for joint research and collaboration by directly interacting with local researchers, academic institutions, and experienced entrepreneurs from university-launched startups.

Furthermore, a pitch event will be held in the capital city, Helsinki, on the final day. Participants will expand their networks in a different way than in the academic city of Espoo by networking with local corporations, investors, and government officials, and engaging in one-on-one meetings.

※Source: City of Espoo "Innovative Espoo" https://www.espoo.fi/en/city-and-decision-making/innovative-espoo

Features of the "KSAC Finland Program 2026"

Participation in a preliminary online program is mandatory prior to the on-site program. This phased approach aims to maximize outcomes.

1. Preliminary Program (Online)

Participants will learn about market trends in Europe and an overview of various regulations, in addition to skills, knowledge, and mindsets necessary for commercialization and overseas expansion. Mentoring will also be provided for pitch deck creation and English pitching.

2. On-site Program

Participants will travel to Finland, a leading European hub for innovation and startup support, to attend practical lectures necessary for overseas expansion and visit research and support institutions that lead the local ecosystem. Through planning commercialization strategies, refining business plans, individual mentoring, and networking with local stakeholders, participants will deepen their practical knowledge and insights for global market commercialization.

Application Overview

Target Audience: Researchers from KSAC participating universities aiming to start a business and considering future overseas expansion Target Fields: Various deep tech fields (excluding life sciences and healthcare)

Number of Projects and Capacity: Up to 5 projects (maximum of 2 participants per project for the on-site program)

Participation Fee: Free

*There is no participation fee for applying to the program. *Please check the application guidelines for the scope of expenses covered for travel, accommodation, meals, and local transportation.

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026 (Fri) noon

*After submitting a preliminary application on the website, a formal application via email is required. *At the stage of formal application, you will need to prepare your pitch materials in English.

Details and Application: Please check the following website https://ksac.site/215/

Schedule and Venue

Preliminary Program

Dates: September 25, 2026 (Fri), October 1, 2026 (Thu), October 14, 2026 (Wed) Venue: Online

*Attendance at all sessions is mandatory. The exact times will be communicated separately to those who apply.

On-site Program (including travel days)

Dates: October 18, 2026 (Sun) - October 24, 2026 (Sat)

Venue: Espoo (4 days), Helsinki (1 day)

【What is KSAC (Kansai Startup Academia-Core Coalition)?】

A platform for creating university-launched startups, involving over 100 organizations from universities, industry, finance, and local governments in the Kansai region (as of May 2026). It connects academic knowledge with social implementation on a regional scale.

Website: https://ksac.site

【What is Espoo Innovation Deep Dive?】

A collective term for startup support and business attraction programs held in Espoo. In this program, under the overall management of Crazy Town, Aalto University, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, Enter Espoo, and others will jointly provide a practical program aimed at commercializing research seeds and expanding overseas.

Website: https://www.enterespoo.fi/service/espoo-innovation-deep-dive

【What is Helsinki Partners?】

An industrial promotion and investment company owned by the City of Helsinki. It hosts investment and business attraction programs such as "90 Day Helsinki" and excels at facilitating introductions to local corporations, researchers, and investors through its extensive network.

Website: https://www.myhelsinki.fi/helsinki-partners/

Organizers: Kansai Startup Academia-Core Coalition (KSAC), Osaka Industry Bureau

Cooperators: Enter Espoo Deep Dive, Helsinki Partners