VENTURE BUILDER

Antti has 20 years of experience in validating new technologies in demanding scientific infrastructures and applying them in tomorrow’s applications. Possessing engineering and business degrees, Antti has been establishing, operating and advising a number of businesses along the way.

Sevi has an extensive background working at many levels in corporate, SMEs and start-up companies in several countries. He has a track record exceeding 100M EUR of personal sales in tens of different countries and has led innovative projects that have been the first of their kind.

Mika is a multidisciplinary professional who has worked for firms, universities, research institutes and public authorities in several countries. Graduated with three master’s degrees in tech, business and social sciences, Mika has a strong background in management, technology and innovation, ecosystems, venture building, sustainability and academic research. His research areas have included the emergence of new technologies and industries, entrepreneurial ecosystems and publicly funded R&D projects. 

Júlia is a life sciences professional with strong international research and communication expertise, acquired through her work both in the academic and industry arena. Julia is experienced in managing and communicating with different stakeholders and presenting innovations to key partners to encourage their engagement and collaboration.

Maria has a diversity of experience with an extensive background in corporate banking, financial services, management consulting, and the start-up sector, having worked across multiple industries and countries. Throughout her career, she has developed a deep-seated passion for innovative and disruptive projects that effect positive change in society, while also being mindful of the impact on future generations.

Martin is a political scientist with a International Affairs Master’s degree from Sciences-Po Paris. He has 15+ years of experience in different sectors and roles, from innovation policy to coordination, advocacy and funding, in NGOs, private sector, and international organizations, across Europe, LATAM and Africa. Martin has expertise in science policy and European innovation funding instruments, allowing him to match bold research ideas to the right funding opportunities.

Benjamin is an avid writer with a penchant for all things artistic. He is highly skilled in journalism, marketing, content writing, and graphic design. Following his bachelor’s degree in Communications, Ben is now reading for a Diploma in Creativity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at the University of Malta. On the side, he co-runs a local theatre collective, for which he writes, directs, and occasionally acts.

A newcomer to the Acceler8 team, Stephanie joined in November 2022. Having worked in several roles in international publicly traded companies, Stephanie brings a wealth of experience in the areas of administration and project management.

Mikael Secomandi is completing a dual Master’s degree in Economics & Business Administration and International Management from the Norwegian School of Economics and CEMS. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on International Business. Mikael specializes in strategy, business development, and management and has participated in various projects focused on the commercialization of innovations.

Tuomo has a very strong background in commercialising research-based innovations and building startups. Earlier in his career, Tuomo built the biggest Finnish initiative for commercialisation of research-based innovations, the TULI-programme. After TULI, he has been at the helm of a number of technology start-ups.

Heli has held various sales positions for the past 20 years. She has harnessed all the skills gained for training sales personnel in SMEs and large corporations. Together with Sami, Heli has trained over 400 sales people.

Sami is an expert in sales and has worked for 20 years in managerial and director roles. Sami is also an entrepreneur who has been running his sales consultancy companies over the last 10 years and rebuilt the sales operations for numerous clients.

Jelena is a biologist by background and can efficiently work on various research domains, including wine chemistry.