NORDEEP, the Nordic Deep Tech Business Summit, is one of the annual deep tech events connecting deep tech startups, investors, researchers, and corporations. Its audience includes founders, venture capitalists, academic researchers, and corporate leaders focused on commercializing scientific innovations.
Table of Contents
Below we have summarized the most notable speakers for NORDEEP 2024 taking place in Espoo, Finland on 18-19 September 2024.
Panel: Growth Funding for Deep Tech Scale-ups – the Public and Private Collaboration
Senan O’Mahony – Investment Manager, Atlantic Bridge
Senan O’Mahony is an Investment Manager at Atlantic Bridge, where he focuses on sourcing, evaluating, and executing new investments. He joined the firm in 2021, bringing with him a strong background in finance and engineering. Prior to Atlantic Bridge, Senan worked at the Bank of Ireland, where he was involved in structuring leveraged finance deals and managing the bank’s participation in various venture capital and private equity funds.
Senan holds degrees in Biomedical Engineering (BA, BAI, MAI) from Trinity College Dublin and a Diploma in Financial Advice (QFA). Additionally, he has passed Levels I and II of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Program, further strengthening his expertise in investment and financial analysis.
At Atlantic Bridge, Senan plays a key role in identifying promising deep tech and technology-driven businesses, helping them grow by providing strategic investment
Minna Leisvuori – Senior Manager, European Investment Fund (EIF)
Minna Leisvuori is a Senior Manager at the European Investment Fund (EIF) with over 15 years of experience in M&A consultancy, investment banking, and institutional asset management across Northern Europe. Before joining EIF, she was the Head of Global Products, Responsible Investments, and Fund Brokerage at BNP Paribas Asset Management in Finland. In this role, she worked closely with institutional investors to create tailored investment solutions.
At EIF, Minna is responsible for investor relations and consultative fundraising in the Nordic region. She designs and implements fund-of-funds and co-investment schemes that align with the policy goals of the EU and national governments. Her work focuses on bridging funding gaps by collaborating with national ministries, promotional institutions, and investors to support early-stage venture capital, private equity, and business angel investments. She is particularly active in areas such as health, green technologies, and digital innovations
Susan Repo – Chief Financial Officer, ICEYE
Susan Repo is the Chief Financial Officer at ICEYE, a leading company in the space technology sector that specializes in synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) satellite imaging.
With over 20 years of experience in finance, legal, and leadership roles, she joined ICEYE following her work at Tesla, where she served as VP of Finance, Corporate Treasurer, and CFO for Tesla Finance. At ICEYE, Susan has played a critical role in managing its financial strategy, helping secure significant funding rounds that support the company’s growth, particularly in expanding its satellite constellation and data offerings for various industries such as insurance, disaster management, and government.
Her leadership has been pivotal in driving ICEYE’s commercial success, including its recent growth funding round, which raised $93 million to accelerate the company’s expansion
Moderator: Juha Lehtola – Investment Director, Tesi
investment firm managing over €2 billion in assets. He has been instrumental in supporting high-growth Finnish companies, particularly in the deep tech sector. With over two decades of experience in the Finnish and European venture capital ecosystem, Juha leads Tesi’s efforts to foster innovation and international expansion among early-stage companies. He has a strong background in venture capital, having previously worked at Nordic Venture Partners and the European Investment Fund.
As a moderator at NORDEEP, Juha brings his extensive expertise in venture capital and investments to discussions on the challenges and opportunities in deep tech. His role involves managing Tesi’s portfolio of approximately 100 companies, aiming to elevate Finnish startups to global success
Panel: Role of Research in Innovation – What the Role of the Research Centres Should be in Spinoffs and Funding
Johanna Buchert – President & CEO, Luke
Johanna Buchert is the President and CEO of the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), a role she has held since 2018. She was reappointed for another term in 2023, continuing her leadership until 2028. Luke is a Finnish research organization focused on sustainable natural resource management, supporting economic and environmental well-being across the country.
Buchert’s background is in industrial biotechnology, with a Doctor of Technology degree. Before joining Luke, she held significant leadership roles, including Vice President of Research at VTT, one of Northern Europe’s largest applied research organizations. Her work at VTT involved leading research in industrial biotechnology, biofuels, bioenergy, and environmental engineering, among other areas.
Under her leadership, Luke continues to focus on providing innovative, research-based solutions to enhance sustainability in the use of natural resources, while also fostering Finland’s bioeconomy and ecological resilience
Mika Kukkurainen – Partner, Nordic Foodtech VC
Mika Kukkurainen is a Partner and Co-Founder at Nordic Foodtech VC, a venture capital fund established in 2020 that focuses on investing in deep food technology startups across the Nordics and Baltics. With a fund of €42 million, Nordic Foodtech VC supports early-stage companies that aim to revolutionize the global food system through innovative technology.
Mika’s background includes extensive experience in business strategy, brand development, and the food industry. Under his leadership, the fund has made investments in companies working on sustainable and impactful solutions, such as precision fermentation, circular economy innovations, and new protein sources. Nordic Foodtech VC has already invested in several cutting-edge startups in Finland, Sweden, Denmark, and Estonia.
Mika and his team are passionate about fostering the transformation of the food system to improve human health and environmental sustainability
Moderator: Pontus Stråhlman – Partner, Voima Ventures
Pontus Stråhlman is a Partner at Voima Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on supporting Nordic and Baltic deep tech startups. With a strong background as a serial entrepreneur and angel investor, Pontus plays a pivotal role in guiding early-stage companies, particularly in areas like foodtech, agritech, and AI, helping them develop effective go-to-market strategies. His expertise lies in bridging scientific research with commercial viability, ensuring that cutting-edge innovations are not only developed but also successfully brought to market.
At Voima Ventures, Pontus is dedicated to accelerating the impact of novel technologies that address significant societal and environmental challenges. His work is rooted in nurturing startups that leverage deep tech to make transformative advancements in areas such as green transformation, life sciences, and advanced materials
Panel: Making the World Aware of Your Deep Tech Startup
Hailey Eustace – Founder, Commplicated
Hailey Eustace is the founder of Commplicated, a strategic communications firm focused on helping deeptech companies convey their complex innovations clearly to various audiences. With over a decade of experience in both the investment and communications sides of deeptech, Hailey began her career as an investor at the Texas Emerging Technology Fund before moving into communications roles. She has also been involved in deeptech startups and serves as an angel investor and advisor for companies in sectors like healthtech and biotech.
Hailey’s firm, Commplicated, specializes in working with early-stage deeptech companies, helping them raise significant capital and build effective communication strategies. Her firm has supported over 100 startups across Europe and the U.S., assisting them in securing more than £100 million in funding. Through her extensive work, Hailey aims to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and practical business applications by ensuring that deeptech companies can effectively share their vision with investors, customers, and the media
Mari Luukkainen – Principal, identity.vc
Mari Luukkainen is a Principal at identity.vc, Europe’s first venture capital fund dedicated to investing in early-stage startups with LGBTQ+ leadership. With a rich background as a growth operator, she has helped numerous startups scale from idea stages to Series A funding. Prior to her role at identity.vc, Mari worked at Icebreaker.vc, managing over 100 early-stage companies and driving substantial growth for startups like Freska, Paxful, and Yousician.
In addition to her work in venture capital, Mari founded Herizon.io, a non-profit that focuses on creating tech jobs for immigrant women. Her passion for diversity and inclusion has earned her recognition, including the titles of Investor of the Year at the Nordic Women in Tech Awards and Diversity Role Model of the Year at the Nordic Startup Awards.
Mari’s work centers on leveraging her expertise in growth hacking and strategic scaling to support startups, particularly those founded by diverse teams, helping them navigate funding rounds and build sustainable businesses
Malathy Eskola – Marketing & PR Director, Kuva Space
Malathy Eskola is the Director of Marketing and PR at Kuva Space, a Finnish company developing hyperspectral satellite technology aimed at addressing global challenges such as climate change and food security. With over 20 years of marketing experience at companies like Nokia and Microsoft, Malathy has a strong background in leading global and regional teams to build brands, drive demand, and enhance customer engagement.
At Kuva Space, she plays a crucial role in crafting the company’s marketing and communications strategy, focusing on raising awareness of their AI-powered Earth observation solutions. Her work involves aligning the company’s brand and messaging with its mission to provide critical insights for industries through advanced space technology.
Moderator: William von der Pahlen – Deepscan
William von der Pahlen is the co-founder and CEO of DeepScan, a company in stealth mode that focuses on deep tech diagnostics. He is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and podcast host, having co-founded and chaired several companies, including Green Hippo and Poke Amigos. William is also known for co-founding the popular Futucast podcast, where he engages with notable figures in Finland to discuss future-oriented topics. His work spans industries, including technology, branding, and business development, and he has a deep interest in helping companies tell their stories through effective marketing and storytelling. As a moderator at NORDEEP, William brings his experience in facilitating discussions on entrepreneurship, deep tech, and innovation.
Keynote: IP Strategy For Startups
Tom Groop – Strategic Advisor & IPR (of counsel), Vestra Advisors Oy
Tom Groop is a Strategic Advisor specializing in intellectual property rights (IPR) at Vestra Advisors Oy. With over 25 years of experience, Tom has extensive expertise in international IPR matters, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Before joining Vestra, he spent more than two decades at Roschier, Attorneys Ltd, where he helped build their award-winning IP & Technology practice.
Tom’s core competencies include litigation and cross-border arbitration, and he has litigated numerous high-profile cases at national and international courts. His current focus is on helping startups and growth companies develop IP strategies that align with their business goals, especially in maintaining confidentiality around core technology trade secrets. His background in IPR makes him a valuable keynote speaker at deep tech conferences like NORDEEP.
Fireside Chat: 200 Patents – experiences managing a large IP portfolio
Antti Sunnari – Co-Founder & CEO, Dispelix
Antti Sunnari is the co-founder and CEO of Dispelix, a pioneering company in the field of augmented reality (AR) technology, specifically known for developing lightweight, single-layer waveguide displays. These see-through displays are a critical component for AR smart glasses, offering an ultra-thin, light, and high-performance solution that enhances user experience. Under Sunnari’s leadership, Dispelix has secured significant funding, including a €28.4 million Series B round, allowing the company to scale its capabilities for mass production.
Dispelix’s technology is used by leading global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in next-generation AR devices, emphasizing quality, image clarity, and a wide field of view. Sunnari has positioned Dispelix as a trusted partner in the global AR ecosystem, pushing the boundaries of nanophotonics to develop cutting-edge waveguide solutions
Moderator: Mårten Skogö – Partner, node.vc
Mårten Skogö is a Partner at Node.vc, a Nordic early-stage venture capital firm that supports entrepreneurs and tech innovators. Before transitioning to investing, Mårten co-founded Tobii AB, a global leader in eye-tracking technology, and Tobii Dynavox, known for assistive communication technology. With over 20 years of experience in technology and product development, he has played a significant role in scaling companies from the ground up, including taking Tobii through all growth stages up to an IPO.
After spending two decades as an entrepreneur, Mårten shifted to investing, first as CTO at Industrifonden, a Stockholm-based venture capital firm, before co-founding Node.vc. His passion for innovation and hands-on experience in building companies make him a highly sought-after advisor and moderator in the deep tech ecosystem. As a moderator at NORDEEP, Mårten shares insights on venture capital, funding, and supporting deep tech startups.
Keynote: 0-1 – How do you Build the Team to First Customer?
Raman Ramalingam – Founder, TalentX
Raman Ramalingam is the founder of TalentX, a company specializing in innovative talent acquisition and development solutions. His vision focuses on helping startups and scaleups build high-performing teams tailored to meet specific growth phases. With a background in talent strategy and a deep understanding of what drives team success, Raman has positioned TalentX as a critical partner for companies aiming to recruit top talent in competitive markets. His approach emphasizes not just finding the right talent but aligning team capabilities with the long-term goals of a business, ensuring that startups are set up for sustainable growth from the earliest stages.
In the “0-1: How Do You Build the Team to First Customer?” keynote Raman shares secrets for establishing a strong, adaptable team that can drive a startup from its founding phase to securing its first paying customer.
Panel: Scaling with Talent – 1 to a 100
Anne Badan – Founding Partner, A2B Search
Anne Badan is the Founding Partner of A2B Search, an executive search firm that specializes in providing tailored leadership, growth, and diversity solutions for tech and growth companies in the Nordics. With over 25 years of experience in management, marketing, sales, and strategic partnerships, Anne has worked across diverse sectors, including global organizations such as the World Economic Forum and Formula 1.
Anne is also a co-founder and former CEO of The Shortcut, a prominent Finnish talent accelerator focused on integrating diverse talent into the tech ecosystem. Her commitment to innovation and diversity is evident through her roles on the Advisory Board of Ashoka Nordics and as an impact investor. Her extensive experience within the tech startup community gives her a unique ability to identify and nurture talent that drives business success
Caritta Seppä – Co-founder, Tespack & Investment Manager, Spintop Ventures
Caritta Seppä is the co-founder and COO of Tespack, a company specializing in mobile energy solutions designed for off-grid environments, working with global organizations such as UNICEF and the United Nations. Caritta’s leadership at Tespack focuses on combining hardware and software to provide energy and connectivity to remote regions, and the company has garnered international attention for its impact-driven innovations.
In addition to her role at Tespack, Caritta serves as an Investment Manager at Spintop Ventures, where she helps expand the firm’s reach in the Nordic region. She is passionate about supporting next-generation startups and investing in sustainability-driven companies. Recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30, she is also a mentor and speaker at global tech events like TEDx and ChangeNOW. Caritta’s work is grounded in her commitment to education, sustainability, and creating long-lasting social impact
Keynote: Keynote from NATO Innovation Fund
Nela Braun – Fund-of-Funds Investor, Nato Innovation Fund
Nela Braun is a Fund-of-Funds Investor at the NATO Innovation Fund (NIF), where she plays a pivotal role in strengthening regional capabilities and fostering ecosystem growth in deep tech. Nela works closely with venture capital managers across the NATO region to enhance global recognition for emerging technologies, especially in defense and security. Prior to joining NIF, she gained valuable experience at DN Capital, where she supported due diligence and financial operations, and at Sure Ventures in Silicon Valley.
Nela holds a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley, where she developed her interest in defense and technology through her participation in the U.S. Air Force ROTC program. She also earned a master’s in business management from Imperial College Business School in London. Her diverse background, including work in SaaS, fintech, and marketplaces, positions her as a key player in shaping investments that align with NATO’s strategic goals in innovation and defense.
In addition to her investment work, Nela is passionate about exploring new cuisines, volunteering in animal aid, and spending time with her dogs
Keynote: Defence Tech Investments in the Nordics and Baltics
Sandra Golbreich – CEO & Co-Founder, Baltic Sandbox Ventures
Sandra Golbreich is the CEO and Co-Founder of Baltic Sandbox Ventures, a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in deep tech and life science startups. Based in Vilnius, Lithuania, the firm is dedicated to supporting teams that are tackling complex technological challenges with significant commercial potential. Sandra has been instrumental in shaping the firm’s approach, which includes providing not only financial backing but also incubation and acceleration programs aimed at nurturing startup founders.
Her work with Baltic Sandbox Ventures has positioned the firm as a key player in the Baltic region’s innovation ecosystem, and the firm is known for its hands-on support throughout the startup journey, particularly in deep tech fields. Sandra is also active in initiatives like the Angel School, educating new investors and fostering stronger connections between startups and business angels across the Baltics.
Under her leadership, Baltic Sandbox has successfully secured millions in funding, supporting a range of startups and building a vibrant entrepreneurial community focused on impactful innovation(
Panel: Dual Use investments and Capacity Building Through Innovation
Benedikt von Schoeler – General Partner, VSquared Ventures
Benedikt von Schoeler is a General Partner and one of the founding members of VSquared Ventures, a leading European early-stage deep tech fund. With over 15 years of experience in finance and technology, Benedikt has been instrumental in shaping VSquared’s focus on deep tech sectors such as quantum computing, space technology, AI, and robotics. Before founding VSquared, he worked at HgCapital, Europe’s largest software investor, and at GCA Altium, specializing in mergers and acquisitions.
Benedikt holds a Master’s in Business and Economics from the University of St. Gallen and an MBA from INSEAD. He has played a critical role in the development of some of Europe’s most promising deep tech companies, including investments in firms like Isar Aerospace and IQM Quantum. His approach emphasizes a mix of technology diligence, market potential, and supporting strong founding teams throughout their entrepreneurial journey
Valentin Menedetter – General Partner, Vektor Partners
Valentin Menedetter is a General Partner at Vektor Partners, a London-based venture capital firm specializing in mobility technology, including AI, machine learning, and data-centric solutions. With a background in both venture capital and technology, Valentin has played a significant role in over 100 investments across various stages and verticals. He has gained extensive experience in scaling SaaS businesses and has a particular focus on the mobility sector, investing in transformative technologies that address global transportation challenges.
Prior to his work at Vektor Partners, Valentin held key roles at companies like Palantir Technologies and Speedinvest, where he worked closely with founders to navigate critical issues, structure commercial offerings, and support growth strategies. He brings a deep understanding of both the European and global tech ecosystems, helping to shape Vektor Partners’ investment strategy in the fast-evolving mobility landscape(
Moderator: Teemu Seppälä – Technology and Innovation Director, City of Riihimäki
eemu Seppälä is the Technology and Innovation Director for the City of Riihimäki, Finland. He plays a key role in advancing the city’s position as a hub for robotics and dual-use technologies. Since his appointment in 2024, Teemu has been focused on leveraging Riihimäki’s unique position in global robotics training and fostering growth in sectors that integrate defense and civilian technologies. His work involves supporting local businesses in scaling internationally, especially in the areas of defense and security through initiatives like the DEFINE network and its accelerator programs.
As a moderator at NORDEEP, he brings his expertise in innovation and technology, helping facilitate discussions on the challenges and opportunities in deep tech and dual-use technologies. His leadership in projects like the DEFINE network underscores his commitment to enhancing both local business ecosystems and broader international collaboration in technology