Espoo, Finland – Global provider of telecom IT solutions Tecnotree launched today Quja, a coworking space for new Finnish technology startups. The premises are located in Suomenoja, Espoo, next to Tecnotree’s headquarters.
The versatile facilities are well suited for developers of Internet and media services, mobile applications and telecom solutions in their early stages of business. In addition to the facilities, Tecnotree provides support for networking as well as direct contacts to its international operator customer base.
First-phase partners for Quja include the City of Espoo, Startup Sauna, AppCampus and the Finnish Software Entrepreneurs Association.
”Companies that have gained momentum, for example, through the Startup Sauna and AppCampus programmes, often require flexible space at short notice. Since there is vacant office space next to our own headquarters which is suitable for the needs of startups, we wish to make use of it and be part of the ecosystem of Finnish growth companies. Instead of collecting income from rents, our objective via Quja is to help companies export innovations that can also add value to our operator customers,” says Kaj Hagros, President & CEO of Tecnotree.
The building, owned by Tecnotree, hosts furnished work space for up to 150 people. Teams of three are granted rent-free space for the first twelve months with subsidised cleaning and network expenses. Additional space can be leased at 100 euros/month/person.
Furthermore, Quja offers demo space, meeting rooms, a gym and a sauna. The only admission requirement for startups is that they are registered with the Finnish Trade Register. Priority will be given to companies whose domicile is Espoo.
”Finland needs more and more growth companies aiming at international markets already in the startup phase. The City of Espoo wants to be part of creating operational capabilities for companies in a challenging economic environment,” says Jukka Mäkelä, Mayor of the City of Espoo.
”Facilities that foster the encounter of ideas and competence and connect people with early-stage businesses and experienced veterans can create opportunities for accelerating innovations in international markets,” continues Tuula Antola, Director for Economic and Business Development of the City of Espoo.
“Startup Sauna and its seed acceleration programme produces early-stage startup companies every six months. We warmly welcome the new Espoo-based campus to support our work in pushing young companies into the market. We believe many Startup Sauna graduates will be seen in Quja in the future,” says Startup Sauna Commander Antti Ylimutka.
Pekka Sivonen, head of AppCampus, adds: ”The AppCampus programme has attracted more than 1000 application submissions during its first four months. Operators around the world or, for example, those in developing markets like Africa, represent distribution channels and expansion opportunities that our startups will surely consider. The Quja startup campus and Tecnotree’s presence in international markets wonderfully support the growth of the AppCampus ecosystem.”
“The Quja campus by Tecnotree is a fine move for promoting entrepreneurship in Finland. Such concrete actions weigh a lot more than fancy words we hear every now and then. Moving from words to action – that’s what entrepreneurs do!” exclaims Rasmus Roiha, Managing Director of the Finnish Software Enterpreneurs Association.
The first company that moved into Quja is NordicHug (www.nordichug.fi). Companies that need more information about office space at Quja can contact real estate manager Pasi Niskanen or leave a contact request at www.startupquja.com. Follow Quja on Facebook at www.facebook.com/startupquja
