A recent Entrepreneur Gallup poll has highlighted a significant downturn in the financial situation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Finland. The survey, conducted in early November with responses from 1,300 SME representatives, indicates that the economic outlook for these businesses has notably worsened, casting a shadow over the country’s entrepreneurial landscape.
President Niinistö grants internationalization awards to succesful Finnish companies

Neural DSP was awarded the Newcomer Company of 2023. In the picture on the left is Douglas Castro (CEO, founder) and on the right, Francisco Cresp (CPO, founder). Photo: Loïc Sans
President Sauli Niinistö of Finland has honored several Finnish companies with the prestigious annual internationalization award, recognizing their global success and contributions to the country's economy and innovation landscape. The awards celebrate Finnish companies' achievements in expanding their reach and impact on the international stage, emphasizing competitiveness, ethical operations, and fostering Finnish expertise and employment.
Finnish SMEs attract strong investment despite market challenges in 2023
In the first half of 2023, Finnish private equity investors have actively continued to invest in growth-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) despite a challenging market environment. According to a recent barometer survey, investors specializing in buyout and growth investments view the current market as difficult, but signs of improvement are on the horizon.
Finnish business angels on the hunt for new investment opportunities
The Finnish Business Angels Network (FiBAN) has conducted a comprehensive member survey that reveals the mindset and trends among Finnish angel investors. Gathering over 250 responses, the survey delved into the demographics, investment activity, experience, and expertise of angel investors, as well as their interest in various sectors and trends. A notable 86% of respondents indicated they are actively seeking new investment opportunities, marking the first time such a member survey has been conducted.
Yuan surges past euro as second most used currency in global trade
In a significant shift in global finance, the Chinese yuan has overtaken the euro to become the world's second-most utilized currency in global trade. This development, highlighted by the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT), showcases the rising influence of Asian currencies in the worldwide monetary system.
According to Reuters, global companies are increasingly turning to China's debt markets, issuing record amounts of yuan-denominated bonds and borrowing heavily from Chinese banks.
Web Summit 2023: World’s largest tech conference, Finnish tech innovations and the industry in the age of AI

Katherine Maher, CEO, Web Summit during the opening night of Web Summit 2023 at the Altice Arena in Lisbon, Portugal. Photo by Lukas Schulze/Web Summit via Sportsfile
Lisbon's Altice Arena buzzed with innovation and diversity as Web Summit, the world’s largest technology conference, welcomed a record 70,236 attendees from 153 countries, reflecting a vibrant tech ecosystem. The 2023 edition was not just about numbers; it marked a significant stride in gender diversity, with women representing 43% of attendees and 38% of speakers, and almost one-third of the 2,608 startups being woman-founded.
FiBAN celebrates 2022's most impactful players in the startup ecosystem
The Finnish Business Angel Network (FiBAN) has once again recognized the stellar achievements within its community, honoring those who have made a significant impact in the startup ecosystem in 2022. This year’s awards celebrated remarkable exits, outstanding business angels, and honorary members for their exceptional contributions.
Miradore Bags the Exit of the Year Award