Startup Foundation was founded in 2012 by fifty-seven Finnish technology influencers, entrepreneurs and investors. The foundation was born from the ecosystem to give back to the ecosystem in a concrete way. For the past ten years, the Startup Foundation has been an integral part of the Finnish startup ecosystem, backing initiatives like Slush, Junction, The Shortcut, Dash, Maria 01, and being the first home for Wave Ventures. It also has an important role in supporting the Entrepreneurial Student Societies nationwide, and therefore pushing the entrepreneurial movement forward in Finland. 

The mission of Startup Foundation is to create the footing for entrepreneurship and the creation of new companies, growth and internationalization, as well as support and promote startups and startup mentality with grassroots initiatives. Our grant programs support both not-for-profit initiatives and individuals wishing to start their entrepreneurial journeys. We aim to have 100 startups in Finland with over 100m€ in revenues by 2050.

Position overview

Startup Foundation is now seeking a new CEO to lead the next phase of growth for the startup ecosystem. You will be in charge of the impact of the Foundation and will create concrete steps to succeed in the mission of Finland reaching 100 startups with over 100m€ in revenues by 2050. 

As CEO, you’ll run the daily operations of the Foundation. You will shape and execute a clear strategy to maximize the Foundation's impact, working closely with key stakeholders in the ecosystem. A part of your role will involve leading fundraising efforts, ensuring the Foundation has the resources needed to expand its impact.

The work is independent, but never lonely since you will spend a lot of time with different stakeholders in the ecosystem. You will also work closely with the board of directors comprising of influential leaders in the ecosystem; Emma Lehikoinen, Anssi Rusi, Kristo Ovaska, Mika Tammenkoski, and Katariina Helaniemi. The Foundation operates  in a very startup-like manner and our stakeholders are deeply involved in the startup ecosystem, thus we value startup experience over traditional foundation experience.

Startup Foundation holds a unique position in the startup ecosystem and you will have a chance to create lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Set & execute goals based on the Foundation strategy 

• Active collaboration with the startup ecosystem

• Fundraising

• Running the daily operations

• P&L responsibility

• Being the voice of the grassroots startup ecosystem

Qualifications

• Track record in contributing to the Finnish startup ecosystem

• Operator / founder experience

• A very good understanding of the Finnish startup scene

• Entrepreneurial, self-starter, sales-minded & focused on impact

• Fluency in English

Preferred start date beginning of January 2025.

Apply by 22.9.2024 & send us your CV and a short motivational letter on why you're interested in the role.