Aloitusrahoitus

Aloitusrahoitus is Finnish for start-up financing and refers to the initial capital used to develop a new business or project. It covers early-stage expenses such as product development, market validation, and initial operations before the venture starts to generate revenue. Because early-stage ventures carry high risk, aloitusrahoitus typically comes from a mix of sources, often combining public support with private investment.

Common sources include founders’ own savings, money from family and friends, angel investors, and early-stage venture funds. Public or public-supported funding can include grants, subsidized loans, or other forms of reimbursable or non-dilutive support aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship and research and development. Financing can be provided as equity (ownership in exchange for capital), convertible instruments, or grants and repayable loans. Non-dilutive funding preserves ownership but may impose conditions or milestones.

Stages and typical use: at the idea or feasibility stage, funds are used for business planning and market research. In a proof-of-concept or prototype stage, money supports development and testing. At the market-entry stage, funding helps with early sales, regulatory steps, and team expansion. Application processes often involve submitting a business plan and budget, followed by due diligence. Terms vary, but founders should consider valuation, ownership dilution, governance rights, and any repayment or milestone obligations.

In Finland, aloitusrahoitus is commonly provided by a combination of private actors and public programs that support entrepreneurship, research and development, and regional growth. EU funds and national agencies frequently participate. See also seed funding, venture capital, angel investors, accelerators.