18Sep2024
First time at Nordic Business Forum and feeling a bit unsure? No worries! Whether you’re wondering about what to wear, what to bring, how to use Brella, or just what to expect, we’ve got you covered.
Our comprehensive First-Timer’s Guide is here to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. We’ve broken it down into three easy sections: Before, During, and After the Event—so you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to prepare. Plus, we’ve included top tips and comments from previous attendees to help you navigate the event like a pro and make the most of your time.
For even more details, check out our Event Information Website for everything you need to know about arriving at the venue, the agenda, and more.
Before the Event – Starting Your Adventure
Ticket & Badge
If you are reading this, it’s safe to assume you already have a ticket and are planning to come to Nordic Business Forum on the 25-26th of September in Messukeskus, Helsinki. To enter the event, you’ll need to exchange your ticket for an event badge. If you didn’t choose the mailing option and haven’t received your badge yet, don’t worry! Here’s how you can collect your event badge:
- Pre-Check-In
Beat the rush and pick up your badge early at one of our pre-check-in locations:- Tallinn: Nordic Hotel Forum, September 19th from 9:00 to 17:30
- Helsinki: Scandic Helsinki Hub,September 23-24 from 10:00 to 20:00
- Event Day Pickup
Prefer to collect your badge at the venue? Head to Messukeskus on the event days. Follow the Check-In signs and have your valid ID and ticket (either printed or on your phone) ready for a fast and smooth check-in.
Be Prepared
After collecting your badge, take advantage of the cloakroom located at each entrance. Dropping off your coat or any extra items will free up your hands and make navigating the event more comfortable. The cloakroom service is quick and convenient, but we recommend allowing a little extra time during peak hours.
Allow extra time also for the mandatory security check when entering the networking area. These checks are essential for ensuring a smooth and secure experience. You may leave Messukeskus and return later, but be aware that security checks will be required upon each re-entry into the networking area.
“Wear comfortable shoes and business casual attire. You’ll be walking and networking extensively, so make sure you’re dressed for both comfort and style.”
Maximizing Your Event Experience
To make the most of the event, start by familiarizing yourself with the speakers. Visit our event page to learn about their backgrounds and the topics they’ll cover. For additional insights, check out our blog post highlighting key takeaways and interesting details about each speaker.
Next, take a close look at the agenda. It’s packed with keynotes and HS Visio Studio interviews and panel discussions. Reviewing the schedule in advance will help you plan your day and ensure you don’t miss any sessions that catch your interest.
Lastly, make sure to download our event and networking app, powered by Brella. You should have received an email with a link to join the platform from either noreply@nbforum.fi or noreply@brella.io. The app provides real-time updates, session schedules, and networking opportunities. Set up your profile before the event to easily connect with other attendees and book 15-minute one-on-one meetings.
“Think about key topics or questions you want to discuss with other attendees. Being prepared will help you make meaningful connections and gain valuable insights.”
During the Event – Immersing in the Experience
How to Get There
Messukeskus is easily accessible with excellent transportation connections. The venue has two entrances: the main Southern Entrance and the Northern Entrance, conveniently located near the parking halls. You can explore the best transport options for you here.
We highly recommend using public transportation and this year, thanks to our partner Vapaus, there will even be a bicycle park at the Southern Entrance (Messuaukio). For those cycling to the event, we’ve also provided dedicated changing rooms, so you can freshen up before heading inside the venue.
Food & Drinks
Enjoy a variety of food and drink options included with your ticket. Lunch will be served at buffet stations in the networking area on both days, with coffee, tea, and snacks available during breaks. Our buffets feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering both traditional Finnish dishes and creative twists. Most of the ingredients used in our food have been grown and harvested in Finland. On all the buffets, there are lactose free, gluten free, and vegan options available. Other special diets will be served on few dedicated buffets, which are marked in the venue map. For a more casual bite, food trucks will be on-site, serving unique Finnish street food like reindeer kebab, chanterelle soup, and fish burgers. Best of all, everything is covered for you.
We are committed to reducing single-use products. To stay hydrated, we provide recyclable cups at refill stations throughout the venue, offering refreshing Finnish tap water. You can find their locations on our event map. Feel free to grab a new cup when needed, but please remember to return used ones to the designated collection stations for proper recycling. If you prefer, you’re also welcome to bring a reusable water bottle.
Info
During the event, if you require any help, our NBForum staff will be available and easily recognizable by their orange scarves and bowties. Additionally, there are three information desks located throughout the venue, clearly marked on the event map.
Take Notes
Upon entering the event, you’ll receive a notebook and pen. Inside the Nordic Business Forum notebook, you’ll find useful information about the event, along with plenty of blank pages to write down your thoughts throughout the two days. After all, you never know when your next big idea will strike.
Networking Area
Whether you’re here to network, relax, or be inspired, there’s a space for everyone at Nordic Business Forum. Networking is a key aspect of the event for many attendees. To make the most of these opportunities, plan ahead by thinking who you’d like to connect with, practice your introduction, and remain open to meeting new people. With so much happening in the networking area, you’ll find endless opportunities to engage, connect, and explore.
Use the event and networking app Brella to arrange meetings or join lively discussions in the Extreme Extroverts Area. If you need a break, head to the Introverts Area, a peaceful space with hammocks where “silence is allowed.” Be inspired by the Lightning Art Exhibition in the networking area, featuring five captivating pieces curated by the Finnish Lighting Art Association. For an energy boost, visit the Solarium for Soul, a bright, light-filled space to refresh your spirit during the event. Don’t forget to explore the partner stalls, where you can discover innovative solutions and connect with businesses.
“What makes me come back is probably the connections, the people I meet here, the business I can make. If you haven’t seen Finland at its best, this is the event you should experience.”
Main Stage
VIP and First Class guests will have designated seating, while regular ticket holders can select any available seats in the main stage that are not reserved. All keynotes will take place on the Main Stage, so we recommend arriving early to secure your preferred spot. You’re welcome to bring small snacks and drinks into the hall, but please note that warm meals are not permitted.
After the Event – Wrapping Up and Moving Forward
Revisit the Highlights: Event Recordings
Missed a session or want to revisit a favorite keynote? All speeches (except VIP sessions) will be recorded and available on the Brella app for 90 days after the event. This extended access gives you plenty of time to catch up on sessions you missed or rewatch the ones that inspired you.
From Insights to Action: Continue Your Event Journey
The event is packed with valuable insights and new connections. To get the most out of your experience, revisit the keynotes, review your notes, and reconnect with the people you met. After the event, we’ll provide written summaries of all main stage sessions, along with a comprehensive Executive Summary. Additionally, short recap videos will highlight key takeaways from each presentation, complemented by summary slides. To add a creative touch, visual summaries illustrated by Linda Saukko-Rauta will also be shared.
Stay Connected and Share Your Experience
To keep the momentum going, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube, where we share business insights through quotes, blogs, videos, and more—keeping you inspired throughout the year. Don’t forget to stay engaged by using our event hashtag #nbforum2024 to connect with fellow attendees and join the conversation. We’d love to hear about your experience—share your highlights and feedback on social media and let us know how the event impacted you. Stay tuned for future events to keep the networking and learning alive.
“I came back to the Nordic Business Forum because this is an amazing event. You always learn something new when you come to places like this. I always like to hear good speakers and also meet new people. So just be here, ask, and listen, and learn.”
Still some questions? Head over to our frequently asked questions (FAQ) to find out everything that you need to know about attending Nordic Business Forum events. Our customer service is also happy to help you with any additional questions or concerns!
