Call for Applications: Aalto Creatives Pre-incubator Programme Spring 2026

Are you the next creative industry founder? Apply to the Aalto Creatives pre-incubator programme.

Aalto Creatives is a 12-week pre-incubator that supports early-stage creative industry startups from concept to company. The programme welcomes individuals and teams, and no prior business experience is required.

Aalto Startup Center and Aalto Studios jointly run the programme. This collaboration blends business advisory with creative industry expertise to help participants develop entrepreneurial capabilities while staying true to their creative vision.

During the programme, participants develop and validate their business ideas, identify target customers and plan how to reach them, iterate and strengthen their business model, and build connections with potential industry partners.

Special emphasis is placed on refining pitching skills to prepare for successful investor presentations. Each round culminates in a Demo Day where participants present their companies.

The programme is intended for students, researchers, and professionals with a relevant creative industry background. Selection focuses on the idea’s potential for further development, the problem it solves, and its contribution to a more sustainable future.

Scope areas include but are not limited to:

• Architecture
• AR/VR
• Arts
• Design
• Fashion
• Film and television
• Gaming
• Media
• Music

The programme runs for 12 weeks in person, with mandatory weekly workshops on Aalto University campus in Otaniemi, Espoo, Finland. Applicants must be residents of the Helsinki capital region.

The programme is free of charge and no equity is taken. Aalto Creatives is part of the City of Helsinki Campus Incubators programme and is run by Aalto Startup Center and Aalto Studios.

If you are ready to turn your creative vision into a sustainable business, Aalto Creatives can help you take the next step.
 
Application period is currently open until 9.2.2026, the next pre-incubator starts on 2.3.2026.

Link to application form

Link to Aalto Creatives website