Competition & Award
Forest and Nature Tech Pitching Competition 2026
Apply by Sep 11, 2026
About
A pitching competition aimed at early-stage startups and research teams developing innovative solutions for sustainable forest management and biodiversity, offering significant visibility, training, and networking opportunities with industry leaders and investors.
Benefits
- 🎉Prize MoneyThe winning team will receive a €5,000 prize.
- 📈VisibilityParticipants gain valuable visibility among forest-sector professionals and the international startup community.
- 🎓Pitch TrainingAccess to targeted pitch training to enhance presentation skills.
- 🌐Networking OpportunitiesDirect access to leading experts, companies, and decision-makers in the forest sector.
- 🚀Advancement OpportunityFinalists will have the chance to connect with investors and innovators at the Slush event.
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to early-stage startups and research-to-business teams developing solutions for forests and biodiversity
- Must have a validated idea, even if still at the research stage
- Solutions should focus on sustainable materials, monitoring technologies, soil innovation, and nature data tools
- Teams must be serious about promoting sustainable forest bioeconomy and biodiversity
- Participants should be prepared to pitch at the semifinal event.
Participation Commitments
- Must attend the semifinal event on October 22, 2026, at Forest Industry Days
- Finalists must present their pitch at the Y Science event on November 18, 2026
- Teams should be prepared to engage with industry professionals and potential investors during the competition
- Participants must submit their applications by the deadline of September 11, 2026.
Target Region
Open to participants focused on the forest and nature sector, particularly in Finland.
Target Sector
Focused on sustainable forest bioeconomy and biodiversity solutions.
University of Helsinki, Natural Resources Institute Finland