Starttiraha (Start-up grant)​

Start-up money, also known as a start-up grant (in Finnish: starttiraha) is financial support provided to aspiring entrepreneurs to help cover their personal living costs as they establish a new business. It’s important to note that this grant is not a direct subsidy for the business itself but is instead intended to support the entrepreneur’s income during the critical early stages of business development. ​

Eligibility Criteria: ​

To qualify for start-up money, you must meet several requirements: ​
Full-Time Self-Employment: You must be fully committed (full-time employed) to self-employment as your main activity. ​
Business Plan: You need a solid business plan with accompanying profitability and financial calculations. ​
Entrepreneurial Experience or Training: You should have relevant experience or training that prepares you for starting a business. ​
Necessity for Livelihood: The support is only provided if it’s deemed necessary for your livelihood, meaning you don’t have other sources of income such as wages or other benefits. ​
Profitability: Your business must be assessed as likely to be profitable. ​

Ineligibility Criteria: ​

You cannot receive start-up money if: ​
Your business is expected to provide a reasonable income from the start. ​
Your business activities are considered part time. ​
You have already started your business activity before the grant is awarded. ​
You have significant unpaid taxes or statutory contributions, although exceptions may apply. ​

Financial Details: ​

Amount: In 2024, the start-up allowance is set at €37.21 per day, corresponding to the basic daily allowance under the Unemployment Insurance Act. ​
Payment Frequency: The allowance is paid for up to five days per week, on a monthly basis, after you submit a payment application. This is covering the assumed ‘’monthly salary’’ the new entrepreneur is not able to receive yet. ​

Duration: ​

Initial Period: The grant is initially awarded for six months. ​
Extension: You can apply for an extension, allowing for a total of up to 12 months of support. ​
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For more detailed information or to address specific circumstances, it’s advised to contact regional business advisors or the local TE Office. ​

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