I ranthi Gomes, a native of Sri Lanka, embarked on an entrepreneurial adventure that began with a coffee cart in Melbourne, Australia, and evolved into a thriving software business in Finland. Her inspiring journey reflects the ease of starting a business in Finland and the transformative power of seizing unexpected opportunities.
From Coffee Cart to Software Business: A Dynamic Transition
The entrepreneurial spark ignited when a single coffee cup altered Iranthi’s trajectory. Partnering with a Finnish man, Jarkko, in Melbourne, they initiated a coffee business. As sales faced challenges, a pivotal moment emerged when a satisfied customer proposed taking their coffee cart to events. Embracing this opportunity, Iranthi and Jarkko shifted their focus entirely to promotional events.
To enhance their coffee cart business, the duo devised a dynamic inquiry form for their website. This innovation sparked the idea of a software business. Four years ago, Iranthi relocated to Finland to further develop this business. Today, she resides in Turku, managing a rapidly growing enterprise with her husband Jarkko, embodying a significant and joyful life transformation.
Championing Finnish Culture and Lifestyle
Iranthi expresses her fondness for Finland through various elements such as its picturesque forests, summer cabins (mökki), saunas, and the luxury of drinkable tap water. The country’s reasonable lunch prices, the enchanting concept of Santa Claus, and the delightful cinnamon bun (korvapuusti) contribute to her admiration. Exploring Finnish forests and picking blueberries fulfill a childhood dream inspired by adventure books.
Entrepreneurial Landscape in Finland: Smooth Beginnings
Commending the ease of initiating a business in Finland, Iranthi highlights the streamlined process of incorporating a business and setting up a bank account. Administrative procedures are straightforward, and English-friendly interactions expedite the setup. The notable difference lies in the Finnish preference for using the local language in business operations, posing a challenge for international entrepreneurs.
Finland: A Prime Hub for Internet Startups
Iranthi extols Finland as an excellent test market for innovative ventures, emphasizing the tech-savvy nature of the Finnish population. The country’s positive reputation further enhances the appeal to international investors and partners. With its wealth of innovative companies, Finland offers an environment conducive to experimentation and growth.
Diverse Perspectives: Enriching the Finnish Workplace
Reflecting on her experiences, Iranthi recognizes the value of diverse perspectives in the Finnish workplace. While acknowledging the demand for skilled workers, especially in software development, she emphasizes the importance of integrating individuals from various cultures into the workforce from the outset. This proactive approach facilitates smoother international expansion, fostering a global mindset within the team.
Navigating the Finnish Social Landscape
Iranthi offers valuable advice for those contemplating a move to Finland. Despite the initially reserved nature of Finnish people, she encourages initiating conversations, as Finnish are welcoming once engaged. Language, though not a barrier in daily life due to widespread English proficiency, can be enriched by learning even a small amount of Finnish.
Turku: A City of Charm and Diversity
Iranthi passionately declares Turku as the best city to live in Finland, appreciating its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. The city’s ‘summer city’ allure, coupled with its accessibility, fosters a sense of belonging. Turku’s culinary diversity, with authentic international cuisines, further adds to its allure.
Balancing Work and Play: Hobbies in Finland
Reveling in Finnish hobbies, Iranthi enjoys cross-country skiing, golf, Lego building, padel, and nature walks. The relaxed atmosphere of golf in Finland and the rising popularity of padel provide enjoyable outlets for social interaction and recreation.
Supportive Ecosystem: Organizations Shaping Entrepreneurial Growth
Acknowledging the support received, Iranthi highlights the roles of Startup Sauna, Kiuas Accelerator, and Nordea Bank’s startup and growth unit in facilitating networking and professional growth. Business Finland emerges as a strategic partner, guiding business expansion, innovation efforts, and market exploration.
Overcoming Language Barriers: A Personal Triumph
One notable challenge faced by Iranthi was the language barrier. While Finnish bureaucratic processes proved straightforward, the prevalence of Finnish as the working language posed occasional challenges. Her strategy involved securing her space in group conversations and acquiring a basic understanding of Finnish, enhancing her conversational abilities.
Iranthi’s journey underscores Finland’s appeal for entrepreneurs, the importance of diversity in the workplace, and the enriching experiences offered by Finnish culture and lifestyle. Her story is a testament to the transformative potential embedded in Finland’s entrepreneurial landscape.