Program overview

The N9 Program is a 9-month hands-on Entrepreneurship & Innovation program designed for individuals who want to transform ideas into real businesses. The program follows the academic year, running from September 2026 to May 2027.

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Based in Nykarleby, the program supports aspiring entrepreneurs through structured mentorship, practical business development tasks, and a strong startup community. Participants work step-by-step from idea development and validation to prototype creation and launch preparation.

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Throughout the program, students gain practical experience, connect with entrepreneurs and companies, and build the skills required to start and grow a business.

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Vision

To transform ideas in Nykarleby into viable and scalable businesses while helping to build a vibrant local startup ecosystem.

 

Mission

The N9 program aims to retain young talent in Ostrobothnia by creating a supportive entrepreneurial community.

Participants receive mentorship, workspace, hands-on guidance, workshops, and networking opportunities that help them develop both as founders and as individuals. 

 

What makes this program unique?

From idea to launch-ready startup
Participants work intensively for nine months to develop and validate a real business concept.

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Personal mentorship
Each participant receives guidance from experienced mentors and startup professionals.

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Skills beyond business
The program focuses not only on entrepreneurship but also on leadership, teamwork, communication, resilience, and the founder mindset.

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Networking and exposure
Participants attend expert talks, company visits, startup events, and connect with investors and entrepreneurs.

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Seed funding and Demo Day
The program concludes with a final pitch event.

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Integration with the NIC network
Participants gain access to a wider network of founders, mentors, investors, and opportunities.

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Basecamp workspace
Students work from a dedicated co-working and incubator space where collaboration and innovation are encouraged.

 

Key elements of the program

• Intensive foundation phase at the start of the program

• Two development phases: Ideation & Validation → Prototyping & Launch Preparation

• Company visits and meetings with entrepreneurs

• Expert talks and workshops

• Participation in startup and innovation events

• Structured business development tasks

• Final Demo Day and pitch competition

• Dedicated co-working/incubator workspace

• Full time studies (25h/week Monday-Friday)

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Tuition fee

• 500€/month

• Housing prices from 240€/month

Application period

The application period is open from 26 March to 31 May 2026.

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After the application deadline, all applicants will be contacted. If the number of applications exceeds the available places, selected applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the selection process.

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Applicants who are offered admission will receive further instructions. Those who are accepted must confirm their place in the program no later than 30 June 2026.

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All teaching and program activities are conducted in English.