Are you a Finnish or Swiss pre-startup or early-stage startup tackling problems related to oncology, applying AI and machine learning to healthcare and drug discovery, or developing novel biologics, cell therapies or gene therapies?

 

If so, this is your opportunity to take to the spotlight! Apply to be one of four finalists in the Health and Pharma Pitching Competition and have the chance to pitch your idea on the Y Science stage, the largest life science gathering at Slush and an official Signature Side Event for 2026. ​

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Eligibility

 

This year's pitching competition is open for teams from Finland and Switzerland that are either pre-startup (planning to be incorporated soon) or an early-stage startup (incorporated on or after November 18, 2023) working on issues relating to:

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• Oncology (an additional interest in RIPTACs)

• Applying AI and ML in healthcare and drug discovery

• Developing novel biologics, cell therapries, or gene therapies

 

Please note that Y Science will take place at Slush in Finland on November 18. The Swissnex package for selected finalists from Switzerland may also include travel and accommodation on request.

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This competition is jointly organised by HiLIFE from the University of Helsinki, Orion Pharma, and Swissnex.

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Applications may be submitted here. The deadline for applications is September 11, 2026.

​​All finalists will

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• Receive one complimentary Startup Pass to Slush (November 18-19), the world´s most founder-focused startup event and a leading gathering of ​venture capital investors;

• Pitch your startup or idea on the Y Science stage in front of an audience of more than 500 attendees;

• Receive a free exhibition table in the Y Science Networking Area;

• Meet potential investors, partners, and collaborators;

• Connect with industry experts in your field; and

• Benefit from expert pitch coaching, including:

  • A workshop on pitching and pitch deck development;

  • At least two one-to-one coaching sessions with a pitch expert; and

  • A rehearsal opportunity with fellow finalists before the event. 

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The winner will also receive 5,000 EUR to take their exciting idea further!​​

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