Petri Rajahalme (Expert for expanding companies, Tekes) tells about funding for Finnish companies expanding in, for example, Russia, which could amount up to 200,000 Euro.

1. Tekes funding for companies planning growth abroad
Awara Seminar Petri Rajahalme 26 August 2014

2. Tekes funding is available for all stages of innovation
Planning for global growth
R&D
Pilot projects

3. Planning for global growth
Tekes funding is available for
exploring IP rights protection and patenting issues
carrying out client surveys and market research, and exploring the market for the product/service
meeting potential clients and collecting feedback on their needs
developing an internationalization strategy
identifying the development needs of the team, board, and any networks involved 75% grant for young companies, 50% for other SMEs

4. Research and development
R&D funding for developing innovative products, services, business models and processes
Grants may be awarded for industrial research projects
If the relevant markets already exist or a business development project involves existing competence, then funding is primarily provided in the form of a loan.
Tekes funding is not more than 70% of total project cost
For young innovative companies (< 5 yr.) 75% possible

5. Demos, piloting & commercialization
Tekes offers an unsecured, low-interest loan to help you pilot your innovation
Funding available both for fast-paced business (e.g. software) and process industries, transportation, biotech, cleantech etc.
Eligible cost incl. depreciation costs for land, buildings, machinery and equipment associated with the project; material and supplies costs; design costs associated with the subject of the pilot or demonstration
Tekes loans are without collaterals, have low interest rates, and can be partially received in advance.

6. Team Finland Explorer (DL Dec. 31)
To accelerate internationalization of SMEs, a special offer available until Dec. 31, 2014
Funding for planning international growth & exports
Funding is only available for purchasing services
50% grant, minimum €4,000
Application must be submitted by December 31, 2014. www.tekes.fi/explorer

7. Test your idea

8. Thank you
www.tekes.fi/en/test-your-idea
petri.rajahalme@tekes.fi