The Finnish Startup Community (FSC) is a network of more than 300 startups, growth companies, and venture capital funds. Its mission is to make Finland the best place in the world to found and scale startups.
“Finland’s startup and growth company scene is at an exciting stage of development. Varma’s investments already show a broad coverage across the Finnish ecosystem. Recently, we have seen an increasing number of private investment opportunities that are competitive in a global comparison – both in funds and direct investments. We look forward to working closely with companies, founders, funds, and other stakeholders across the growth company ecosystem” says Tommi Walther, Head of Private Equity and Debt at Varma.
Private market assets are an important part of Varma’s investment portfolio. About 20 percent of Varma’s total investments are in Finland, and the share of unlisted growth investments continues to increase.
“To grow, startups need not only capital but also partners who understand their everyday realities and needs at different stages. It’s great to have Varma join the Finnish startup community. Varma’s experience as an investor and long-term partner strengthens the startup ecosystem as a whole,” says Riikka Pakarinen, CEO of the Finnish Startup Community.
Making everyday life easier for entrepreneurs
Startups are focused on growing their business—and that’s exactly how it should be. Amid everything else, statutory insurance can feel distant, but it still needs to be handled correctly. At Varma, we want to make this as easy as possible so entrepreneurs can focus on what matters most.
"We aim to be a partner that truly understands the realities of growing companies and makes earnings-related pension insurance effortless. Our goal is to be the first pension provider that comes to mind. That’s one of the reasons we’re so excited about this collaboration.” says Katri Priimägi, Director, Small Business, Enterprise and Partnerships at Varma.