The Tech East Guide To Surviving And Making The Most Of Slush

This is the third in our occasional series of guides to the world’s biggest tech events.

Slush is the event everyone’s talking about. A non-profit based in Helsinki, it hosts what’s often described as ‘the world’s leading startup event’ each year. Its mission? To support and empower founders aiming to change the world. If you’re considering attending Slush, ‘the most founder-focused event on earth’ next year, here are our top tips to make the most of it!

Scale

Slush is the largest gathering of venture capitalists globally, drawing 13,000 founders, investors, and innovation ecosystems from 90 countries, with over 300 side events throughout the week. The Helsinki Expo and Convention Centre (Messukeskus) is vast, so prepare for plenty of walking and navigating.

Duration

Though advertised as a two-day event, activities kick off on ‘Day 0.’ Arriving a day early is worthwhile, especially for the iconic Founders Day Beach Party—a laid-back setting to network and soak in insightful talks. Day 1 is jam-packed, and while the stage programme on Day 2 ends at 6 pm, the Slush Afterparty runs until 2 am for those with stamina!

Practicalities

Familiarise yourself with the venue early. Meeting spots fill up fast, so knowing where the cafes and restaurants are helps with impromptu meetings. Sturdy shoes are essential—November in Helsinki is cold and unpredictable. Skip the formal work shoes if you like. Public transport is your friend: trains and trams are affordable, reliable, and faster than taxis during peak times, even in snow.

Preparation is Key

Book meetings in advance—most formal sessions are scheduled pre-event. The Slush 2025 Matchmaking Tool is essential, so upload a photo, a concise personal bio, your company logo/description, key metrics, and a pitch deck. Take advantage of the 300+ side events during ‘Slush Week’ for serendipitous encounters. Join attendee group chats and forums to share tips, advice, and arrange informal meetups.

Mindset

Keep an open mind in every conversation—you never know where it might lead. And have fun! Slush is as much about enjoying the experience and meeting new people as it is about business.

The Experience

With so much going on, it can be overwhelming. Draft a rough schedule for meetings, talks, and events, but be flexible. Embrace the electric atmosphere but remember to take breaks and stay hydrated.

Costs

Apply to join UK delegations for discounted tickets. Many hotels offer Slush discounts, and Helsinki’s excellent public transport means staying further out is no problem. Flights are affordable, but book early for the best rates.

Is Slush Right for You?

Slush is one of the most efficient tech networking events, attracting developers, investors, and industry veterans. For start-ups and small tech businesses, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to raise your profile, pitch for investment, and exchange ideas with the global tech community.

Norfolk and Suffolk Unlimited and Connected Innovation sponsored the Games Anglia delegation to Slush 2024, in partnership with Games London. Six local businesses connected with investors, attended a Games industry panel at the British Embassy, and collaborated with the wider Games London delegation. Building on the success of the Games Anglia Room and Barclays Game Frenzy 2024, it’s fantastic to see our region’s strengths highlighted nationally and internationally.

Alfie Wright, Co-Founder of Moss Monkey Games, shared: “Slush is one of the most efficient networking events I’ve ever attended for connecting with founders, investors, and others in the industry. I met developers, investors, newcomers, and veterans—all on the first day! If you get the chance, definitely go.”