Starting a business is always a rollercoaster, and a shoulder to rely on comes more than handy for any founder. Starting up is exhilarating, challenging, and often overwhelming, especially in the early stages.
The Ready2Scale program’s Future Founders Club is designed to give future founders the support, knowledge, and network they need to succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to join an established startup, this club offers exclusive insights and connections within the startup community.
Last year in November marked the first Future Founders Club gathering in Tallinn, bringing together aspiring entrepreneurs, startup founders, and those curious about entering the startup world. The event offered participants the chance to hear real-life stories from fellow founders and gain valuable insights into how Estonia’s startup support system can help transform ideas into thriving businesses.
Three young founders shared how kood/Jõhvi, Prototron, and the Tehnopol Startup Incubator supported them on their journey, turning early ideas into real ventures. These organizations form a seamless ecosystem that guides entrepreneurs from idea to scale.
Building the Foundation: kood/Jõhvi – Empowering You with Coding Skills
Every tech startup needs a solid technical foundation. That’s where kood/Jõhvi comes in.
This innovative coding school offers an intensive, peer-to-peer learning program to equip individuals with in-demand programming skills. What makes kood/Jõhvi unique?
- Intensive and Immersive: The program is designed to get you job-ready quickly through hands-on projects and real-world simulations.
- Peer-to-Peer Learning: Learn collaboratively with fellow students, fostering a strong community and enhancing problem-solving skills.
- Focus on Practical Skills: The curriculum emphasizes practical application, ensuring graduates can tackle real-world coding challenges.
- No Upfront Tuition Fees: kood/Jõhvi operates on an innovative income-share agreement model, making coding education accessible to a broad audience.
If you want to build your technical team or acquire coding skills, kood/Jõhvi is invaluable. They provide the foundation upon which to build innovative startups.
Annika Tamm boldly transitioned from healthcare into the tech world by mastering coding and UX design at kood/Jõhvi. Now, as a co-founder of Strikt.tech, she is developing security solutions.
Bringing Your Idea to Life: Turning Concepts into Prototypes at Prototron
Learned to code and have a brilliant idea but need help turning it into a tangible prototype? Prototron is your answer.
This development and funding program supports early-stage startups by providing financial resources and expert mentorship to develop functional prototypes. Prototron offers:
- Funding for Prototype Development: Receive grants to cover the costs of materials, manufacturing, and testing.
- Expert Mentorship: Gain access to experienced professionals who guide you through technical challenges, business strategy, and market validation.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other startups, investors, and industry experts.
Prototron bridges the gap between idea and product, helping startups validate their concepts and demonstrate their potential to investors.
Rico Jaanipere turned his passion for sustainable transportation into ILUSBike, a modular e-bike, which received a €35,000 grant from Prototron.
Preparing for Investment and Growth: Tehnopol Startup Incubator – Nurturing Startup Success
It’s time to scale once you have a working prototype and a validated business model. The Tehnopol Startup Incubator helps startups become investor-ready and achieve sustainable growth. The incubator offers:
- Business Development Programs: Receive tailored support in business planning, marketing, sales, and fundraising.
- Coaching: Benefit from the expertise of experienced mentors and coaches who provide personalized guidance.
- Access to Investors: Connect with angel investors, venture capitalists, and other funding sources.
- Community: Become part of a vibrant startup community and connect with other entrepreneurs.
Tehnopol provides the resources, network, and expertise to help startups navigate the complexities of scaling a business and securing investment.
Ralf Ellervee is a founder of Eetos, a storytelling service that he has refined for market launch and investor engagement in the Tehnopol Startup Incubator.
From Code to Capital: A Seamless Ecosystem
These three organizations represent a robust support system for startups in Estonia. From acquiring essential skills at kood/Jõhvi to developing a prototype with Prototron and finally scaling with the Tehnopol Startup Incubator, entrepreneurs have the support they need at every stage of their journey.
If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur with a game-changing idea, Estonia’s startup ecosystem is ready to help you realize it.Take advantage of these invaluable resources and embark on your startup journey today!
Many Future Founders Club events are ahead! Stay tuned for upcoming Future Founders Club gatherings and opportunities from key support organizations.
