Slush in Helsinki is one of the most important international gathering places for the startup scene. The event offers a focused environment for young companies seeking investment, international networks, and innovative business ideas. In 2026, NRW.Global Business will enable six startups from NRW to participate in the conference and present their business models to an international audience of experts. The event will take place on November 18 and 19, 2026, in Helsinki.

The state of NRW will be represented at Slush 2026 as part of the German Pavilion organized by the German-Finnish Chamber of Commerce (AHK Finland). For each startup, the cost of a ticket to Slush, including logo placement at the NRW stand, will be covered.
The offer also includes on-site support from NRW.Global Business and the German-Finnish Chamber of Commerce, as well as participation in the German Pitching Stage and various networking events such as Startup Germany Night or the Germany Beer-Together. The Enterprise Europe Network also facilitates targeted matchmaking with international business contacts.
Interested startups headquartered in NRW can apply until June 10, 2026. Further information on eligibility requirements and the application process is available on the NRW.Global Business website.