Plug and Play opens Tech Hub Finland at Tampere Hall, names Sandvik and Normet as anchor partners

Plug and Play will run the new platform, aimed at linking Finnish industrial know-how with global startups and investors. Minister Sakari Puisto, who officiated the opening, said the hub builds on Tampere’s ability to convert former Nokia mobile expertise into new companies and products, adding that the local drive and skills remained after Nokia’s mobile operations ended: "When Nokia’s mobile phone operations came to an end in Tampere, the expertise and drive did not disappear."

Organisers emphasised the role of established industrial firms as anchors for the network, naming Sandvik and Normet as partners that can offer startups a market, real-world challenges and demanding customers.

The initiative is backed by the City of Tampere and Plug and Play, with Heidi Wallander appointed to lead Finland operations. Irene Vekkeli, Director of Economic Development and Innovation at the City of Tampere, said the city's job is to connect local industrial and technological expertise with international talent and growth networks: "Our role as a city is to build bridges between Tampere’s strong industrial and technological expertise and the world’s best talent, growth companies and innovation networks."

Jani Vilenius, Director of Research and Technology at Sandvik, said the company joined the network to find and speed up new solutions: "We are not involved simply to provide support. I genuinely believe that our company will benefit from this."

Around 250 people attended the opening. Nine Finnish startups showcased their technologies, and organisers outlined plans to help firms scale internationally.

The hub follows earlier announcements that Plug and Play would operate a Tampere innovation hub announced in June and that an official launch in late September was planned announced in mid-September.