General
Are the programs free?
Yes, 100%.
Does Ignite take equity of companies?
No, we don’t.
Summer Accelerator
First things first: when is the program?
The program starts on Monday, the 9th of June and runs for 10 weeks.
Applying
Can I apply alone?
Yes, you can, but you will need a team before the program. We can help you find one or fit you into an existing team. Keep in mind though, that the application is harder if applying alone.
I have a team, can I still apply alone?
Yes, you can. However, the program can be rough alone, so we recommend having at least two people from your team in the program.
Do I need an idea?
No, you don’t. You need a problem that you truly want to solve.
Do I need previous experience?
No, you don’t. We make sure you lean all about founding in Ignite.
I already have a company, can I still apply?
Yes, you can. However, you need to be in the starting phase since we help new founders accelerate their business. Take a moment to think what’s your motivation to join Ignite and write that carefully to your application.
University
I’m not a student, can I still apply?
Yes you can! We are open to everyone, no matter your background!
What are the requirements for the 10 ECTS credits?
Participating fully in the program counts as completing the course (no exams).
I’m not a student at Aalto University, can I still get the credits?
Yes you can. Although, schools may have differences in accepting courses from Aalto University. We recommend you check that with your school.
Money
What financial support do you provide?
We give you personal grants to get you through the summer. Remember, you can also apply for Kela’s benefit and student loan for the summer if you have enough credits from earlier in the year and you otherwise qualify.
Will my company get funding from Ignite?
No. We firmly believe money is the last bottleneck for truly amazing ideas.
Can I have another summer job besides Ignite?
No. We have so many motivated applicants that we don’t think it would be fair to not have everyone commit 100% to Ignite during the summer.
Traveling from abroad?
I’m not Finnish and I don’t live in Finland, can I still apply?
Absolutely! The program is open for everyone, we care about your ideas and drive, not your citizenship or residence status.
I’ve never been to Finland. I don’t know the laws, rules, customs and culture there, will I fit in?
Finland is a welcoming and inclusive country where most people speak excellent English, making it easy for newcomers to adapt. We’ll also help in every steps of your relocation and adjustment to the country.