What is it?
Karelia NEXT is a pioneer in sustainable and regenerative entrepreneurship, that is turning North Karelia into a future hub, where ideas grow into sustainable businesses and create global impact.
We connect learning, entrepreneurship and sustainable development, providing a platform for innovation, growth and bold solutions. We nurture responsible and regenerative entrepreneurs who act locally and think globally.
We’re here to support you at every step of your entrepreneurial journey!
What’s new
- Library is open in Self-Study Week 2-6 March – check the changes in Library hours
- Tue 17 Feb Library’s customer service open 11-12
- Marketing internship at Karelia UAS – diverse experience and skills for future
- European Universities Networking Day: Finland’s Alliances Driving the Future of European Higher Education
For you?
Degree student
Combining entrepreneurship and studies can be challenging – that’s why NEXT offers concrete solutions to help you advance in both. Our entrepreneurship mentors provide personal guidance to support your journey.
Professional
Expand your expertise and discover new entrepreneurial opportunities. NEXT provides professionals with a pathway to develop their ideas, build networks and make use of practical tools at every stage of entrepreneurship.
Partner
Karelia NEXT supports business advisors, financiers, and other entrepreneurship experts in guiding their clients to the right services.
Here’s how it works
Level 1: Inspiration
For you, who is considering entrepreneurship but doesn’t yet know what to do.
Check out the AI-enabled Early Innovation course
Join entrepreneurship info sessions (coming soon)
Try the BIMA AI-assistant for idea generation
Joensuu Entrepreneurship Society – other entrepreneurial-minded people
Get inspired at events like the Karelia Entrepreneurship Expo and SOHJO
Level 2: Development
For you, who already has an idea but need concrete tools to move forward.
Evaluate your business idea in the Realistic Business Idea – course
Test your idea in a simulated company as part of a course
Apply to Business Academy studies
Apply for funding and mentoring through the Draft Program
Try selling your products or services at Taituri
Level 3: Starting a business
For you, who is ready to start your business.
Boost your expertise with Entrepreneur As a Profession-micro-courses
Get feedback on your plan with an entrepreneurship advisor
Attend a business startup info session
Join the training for starting a business
Explore your eligibility for start-up grants
Level 4: Launch
For you, who has a newly established business and want to grow it smartly.
Choose Entrepreneur As a Profession-micro-courses that support your growth
Apply to the international INVEST Incubator-program
Join the Startup GrowthBase-coaching
Explore different funding options
Network in entrepreneurial communities