Our Culture
or how we do what we do and why 💛
Community-Centered
Our community is our core, and we are committed to supporting them the best we can. This means our members and network directly influence what we build for them and when.
“Community Afterworks” and “Lab Kit” concepts were developed in direct collaboration with our members and network;
We don’t choose the member-only workshop and session topics, our members do.
Community-Driven
Our community members identify and implement solutions together with us. They act as event co-organisers and co-hosts, create content with and about us, and proactively help other members, acting as service providers, mentors, and advisors.
Inclusive
Our doors are open regardless of industry, background, or which language you think in.
We operate in English and Swedish, but you'll hear plenty of other languages used here. That's exactly how we like it!
Everyone has opportunities to get to know us. For all successful applicants, joining us starts with a 3-month trial membership as an opportunity to experience our services and community first-hand without unnecessary pressure. For all the people curious in what we do, we host regular open events (e.g. our bi-annual “Community Days” and our extensive program during Slush).
We are easy to reach both online and in person. Visit us or send us a message!
Caring and Supportive
Generosity and giving back is at the core of our culture.
Members are encouraged to share knowledge, open doors for one another, and invest their time in each other's growth. Community love is the key 💛
We treat people and places the same way, always aiming to leave both a little better than we found them. If you hear Golden Rule mentioned in the Business Lab, this is it!
We regularly show up for the wider Helsinki startup scene as e.g. co-organisers, speakers, community partners, and promoters. Send us a message if you want to collaborate!
Empowering
Great ideas can come from anywhere. A flat hierarchy makes sure they get heard.
When you feel motivated and capable to contribute, you are warmly welcome to suggest events, volunteer, offer to help, or simply share what you think could be better. The people who've helped build Business Lab into what it is today started exactly the same way: by getting involved.
Unique
Both our history and the way we've grown have shaped us to be different.
Our culture, while being truly international, has strong ties to the Finnish-Swedish community. It uniquely positions us in the local and Nordic entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Our strength as an organisation is derived from our cross-border network of specialists, founders, and experts.
Our way to organise events stands out. In addition to open-to-all, community, and member-only offerings, we organise events that are non-traditional by design, bringing the community and network together in ways that have caught attention well beyond Helsinki (e.g. a world record-setting Nordic Sanunathon in March 2026).