The start-up grant is intended to support the livelihood of a new entrepreneur. However, it is not automatically granted to just anyone, but is discretionary. For example, in cases where an entrepreneur can immediately earn a sufficient income from his or her business, the start-up grant will not be granted. When applying for a start-up grant, the business plan of the future enterprise and its ability to operate profitably on a continuous basis will also be assessed.
However, a future entrepreneur does not need to have all the answers ready. The applicant can also seek advice from their local employment authority and the Enterprise Finland service.

The amount of the start-up grant is equal to the basic unemployment allowance
The start-up grant is taxable income, granted and paid by the local employment authority in your area. The amount of the start-up grant is equivalent to the basic unemployment allowance, and it is paid for a maximum of five days per calendar week. The maximum duration of the start-up grant is 12 months.
When you are planning to start a business and apply for start-up allowance, it is a good idea to contact your local employment authority, as you always need to apply for a decision on start-up grant before starting your full-time business.
Apply for the start-up grant electronically
The start-up grant and its payment are primarily applied for using an electronic form in the regional administration's e-service for employment and economic development services. By using the online service, you can submit your application, respond to requests for supplementary and additional information, complete your application yourself and receive decisions.
The printable forms are only used to apply for the start-up grant and for the payment of the start-up grant if you cannot use the online service.
Apply for the payment of the start-up grant
Once you receive a start-up grant decision, you can start your business and apply for the start-up grant from the employment authority. The first positive decision will cover the grant for six months. If you still need support for a period after that, you can make a further application to the employment authority during the current start-up grant period. The start-up grant is paid retrospectively on a monthly basis.
Read more about start-up grants on the website of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment
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