Business Finland has introduced a new funding instrument: Sprint. This marks a significant change in the Finnish startup funding landscape, as Sprint effectively replaces the earlier Tempo funding.
But what does this mean in practice – and who is Sprint actually suitable for?
What is Sprint funding?
Sprint is targeted at small companies developing a new, innovative solution for international markets.
The purpose of the funding is not yet to scale the business, but to validate that the idea has real commercial potential.
Sprint focuses in particular on three key areas:
- technical feasibility
- customer need
- market potential
In practice, this is the stage where the key question is: can this become an internationally scalable growth business?
How much funding is available?
Sprint is a grant, meaning it does not need to be repaid.
- Maximum funding: €100,000
- Funding level: 75% of eligible project costs
This means the company must also contribute its own funding share. Companies under five years old may receive part of the funding as an advance, which supports cash flow.
In addition, the applicant must have at least €50,000 of paid-in equity on its balance sheet.cash management. Applicants must have an equity investment of at least €50 000 in their balance sheet, paid to the company in cash.
Who is Sprint suitable for?
Sprint is not general-purpose funding for all companies. It is clearly targeted at specific situations.
It is particularly suitable for two groups:
Early-stage startups
- less than 5 years old
- no prior Business Finland funding
- aiming for rapid international growth
Companies undergoing a strategic pivot
- over 5 years old
- developing a new line of business based on a new innovation
- seeking new international growth opportunities
The common denominator is new innovation with clear international potential.
What can the funding be used for?
Sprint is specifically R&D funding and it can be used for example for:
- customer validation
- market research
- competitor analysis
- development and testing of the solution
The funding cannot be used to:
- sales or marketing
- operational business activities
- production investments
How to apply for Sprint funding
The application process typically follows these steps:
- Register in the My Business Finland portal
- Discuss the project with a Business Finland advisor
- Submit the funding application
The application period is from 2 March to 31 August 2026, and applications will be processed on a rolling basis.
See more about the criteria and how to apply on the Business Finland website.
See also Valjaa’s guide to Business Finland project reporting.
