As the year comes to an end and we’ve held our this years’ events at A Grid, let’s look back on a vibrant year 2024 for our community – a year filled with meaningful connections, innovative milestones, and events that brought Aalto University and Espoo startup ecosystem together many times creating new ideas and insights.
Events that brought us together
One of the year’s first highlights was the A Grid Open together with Aalto Startup Center Demo Day, which welcomed almost 300 participants. The event included a classical music quartet and delicious community lunch, an insightful speech by Frank Martela on the future of work, and exciting startup pitches that sparked new ideas – many new connections were created at the event!
Just a month later, in April, again nearly 300 guests joined us for a bustling Job Fair event. Students, professionals seeking for new opportunities and aspiring entrepreneurs explored career possibilities gained advice for example from Business Finland keynote, and engaged with the City of Espoo’s and other startup community entities’ entrepreneurial guidance. Visitors had the chance to update their CV photos and gather practical job-seeking tips.
In September, we celebrated entrepreneurship with an Entrepreneur’s Day brunch, and at the A Grid Success Day we heard many success stories from A Grid alumnies and entrepreneurs. It was thrilling to relive the journey of A Grid startups towards the success, and we are so happy to see the aspiring entrepreneurs learn important insights shared in the events!
October’s A Grid Founders Town event celebrated the creators behind Aalto University’s and City of Espoo’s dynamic startup ecosystem. Over 150 participants enjoyed talks from Business Espoo and presentations from entrepreneurs, fueling fresh perspectives and ideas for entrepreurship. The event’s lively atmosphere was elevated by a performance from Sibelius Academy’s jazz musicians, ensuring it was a day to remember.
Beyond these vivid events, our calendar was brimming with activities that brought our startup community together. From May Day celebrations and summer terrace parties to engaging panel discussions, wellness events, global networking events and festive holiday gatherings, every occasion added to the vibrant spirit of our community. These moments of connection, collaboration, and shared expertise made 2024 special for us
Innovation and growth
This year has been strengthening and successful for A Grid startup community. A Grid continued to attract dozens of applicants from ambitious startups, and while limited office space meant we couldn’t take everyone with our community, we were thrilled to welcoming exciting new startups into A Grid!
A Grid’s coworking spaces expanded this year, creating new opportunities for even more professionals to work and grow within our community. Many of our startups achieved success, new innovations was emerging and thriving – this is also the good proof of the potential within our startup ecosystem.
Looking ahead to 2025
As we look ahead to 2025, we are already laying the groundwork for another exceptional year. Plans are in motion for a several inspiring community events, deeper collaborations with the University and partners, and our ongoing support for startup interaction and growth. Mission to create meaningful connections and provide opportunities for success remains at the heart of everything we do.
To everyone who played a role in this year’s A Grid startup community journey, we thank you for making 2024 unforgettable!
Want to become a part of A Grid community?
Future events:
Aalto Startup Center event calendar >>
A Grid event calendar >>
Or ask more from A Grid Community Manager Leigh Ewin via email leigh.ewin@aalto.fi.