The Uutisraivaaja Innovation Contest seeks groundbreaking ideas to renew the distribution of information and create sustainable business models for journalism in Finland. The best idea will receive up to 250,000 euros to implement the proposal. Examples of eligible ideas include new revenue models, ways to gather or publish content, or ways to engage readers. Students are encouraged to apply, as the contest provides an opportunity to develop a real product or service and receive funding to bring their idea to life.

1. Uutisraivaaja
Innovation Contest of
the Helsingin Sanomat
Foundation

2. What?
• Seeks ideas for renewing distribution of
information and creating sustainable business
models for journalism.
• The best idea will be given a maximum award of
250,000 euros with which to implement the
proposal.
• The idea can be a new way to publish online, for
example, or a new revenue model for publishing
content.

3. What is the criteria?
• The idea is groundbreaking and improves the
distribution of information.
• The idea must be first implemented in Finland,
either nationwide or in a local community.
• The applicant, or if a group applies, one of its
members, must be at least 18 years old.

4. For example
• A new revenue model
• A new way to gather information
• A new way to publish content
• An new way to engage with the readers

5. It can be
• Digital or non-digital
• A stand-alone service
• Joint with already existing publications or other
services

6. Why?
• Communication and journalism need developing
to survive.
• Something new can be created only through
experiments.
• Anyone can have the best idea – that’s why
everyone can take part.

7. What’s in it for a
student?
• An opportunity to build a real product,
service or a concept based on for instance
a school work. Bring theory into practice.
• Receive development money, create a
network and make your idea known.
• Work in a cross scientific team during your
studies.

8. What about these?
• Can my idea be linked to my thesis or portfolio? By all means. It
can be based on your previous school work.
• Can developing the Uutisraivaaja idea be a summer job? Sure. If
your idea gets through to the second round, you can use
your summer in the development work.
• My idea requires less than 250 000 euros. Is there a point in
applying? Of course! If there are many good ideas in the
final run, the sum will be divided between the best.
• I have never built anything. I just have a good idea. With the
reward money you can hire a team able to do what you
can’t.

9. Background
• Latest winner was Scoopinion, a news
aggregation Web app that curates news based
on what stories are read closely. Read more.
• Uutisraivaaja is based on the international media
innovation contest Knight News Challenge.
Read more.

10. Questions?
More information: www.uutisraivaaja.fi
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Get in touch: tiiamari.pennanen@uutisraivaaja.fi or
tanja.aitamurto@gmail.com