The CREATIVITY X TECH X CITY initiative is back with its second installment this May (15.5.2025 at 9:00-14:00), continuing its mission to showcase the innovative potential of creative expertise within a broader Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) ecosystem. This upcoming event will specifically focus on spatial solutions in urban environments. Launched in January, the series kicked off a bold, cross-sector collaboration that aims to break down traditional industry barriers.
The multidisciplinary event series CREATIVITY X TECH X CITY returns to Helsinki on May 15, 2025, with its second edition. The initiative showcases the innovation potential of creative expertise as part of a broader Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) ecosystem. It brings together researchers, companies, urban developers, higher education institutions, and startups working at the intersection of creativity, technology, and city development. The goal is to enable bold, cross-sector collaboration beyond traditional industry boundaries.
This year’s edition focuses on spatial solutions in urban environments, featuring real-world challenges posed by cities and businesses. These challenges are designed to spark new RDI projects in collaboration with professionals from the creative industries. Participants will explore and further develop the challenges in co-creation workshops during and after the event.
Presented by the Helsinki City Marketing Association, this challenge calls for a spatial event concept that transforms shop windows and vacant retail spaces in the city centre into a walkable, interactive experience trail. Powered by creativity and technology, these public installations aim to engage, surprise, and inspire. The goal is to create immersive moments of storytelling, sound, and interaction throughout the city.
“We envision a walkable, evolving trail where each stop surprises and engages visitors — perhaps through sound, movement, or glimpses into the city’s past and future,” explains the association.
The ideal concept should be:
The first edition is planned for Slush 2025, with future editions potentially tied to the Christmas season and peak summer tourism. The aim is to bring life back to the city centre, increase foot traffic, and spark anticipation for each new trail experience.
CREATIVITY X TECH X CITY is part of the Digital Creative Industries & Beyond (DCIB) project, which is operated in collaboration with City of Helsinki, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences and Aalto University.
The project strengthens collaboration and co-creation within the digital and creative sectors by offering practical support and guidance for emerging and internationally growth-oriented companies. These include businesses in audiovisual production, audio technology, XR, and gaming. DCIB promotes sustainable business growth and innovation by encouraging the development, implementation, and adoption of new creative practices.
The project is co-funded by the European Union.
Taina Seitsara
Project Manager
Business Helsinki
taina.seitsara@hel.fi
Sinna Marjamaa
Project Specialist
Business Helsinki
sinna.marjamaa@hel.fi
