This week marked the opening of INKU, Estonia’s first incubator dedicated specifically to manufacturing companies. Located in Võru, Southeast Estonia, the brand-new 2,000 m² business hub – also known as the Business Nest – offers modern facilities and growth opportunities for both start-ups and established enterprises.
“INKU was created to give entrepreneurs a safe and supportive environment to test and grow their ideas. We provide state-of-the-art infrastructure, practical training, and guidance from experienced mentors so that good ideas can develop into sustainable businesses. Our aim is for both first-time entrepreneurs and seasoned companies looking for new opportunities to feel at home here,” said Anita Hoole, Director of the Southeast Estonia Innovation Centre (KEIK).
The incubator features 17 production and service spaces ranging from 50 to 300 m², suitable for small workshops, bakeries, woodworking businesses, technology developers, and design studios. All premises are equipped with modern infrastructure – including heat recovery ventilation, independent cost management, video surveillance, and the possibility to use renewable energy.
Priority access to the spaces is given to participants in the six- to eight-month incubation program, run in cooperation with Tallinn Science Park Tehnopol. The program helps companies strengthen their business models, product development, marketing, finance, and management. By the time of the opening, 12 rental agreements had already been signed, confirming that INKU will quickly become a lively hub of entrepreneurial activity.
“South Estonia has strong business potential, but it needs modern facilities and platforms for cooperation to fully realize it. INKU provides exactly that – a place where ideas, people, and support networks come together. This is more than just a building; it is a meeting point for collaborations and a launchpad for companies that bring added value to the region. Initiatives like this attract new people and investments, strengthening the competitiveness of both Southeast Estonia and Estonia as a whole,” emphasized Kristo Seli, CEO of Estiko Group.
The construction of INKU is part of the project “Developing the
Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Southeast Estonia”, supported by the measure Attractive
Regional Business and Living Environment No. 2021-2027.5.02.23-0110. The
project is led by Võru County Development Centre, with partners including KEIK,
Neveri OÜ, the competence center Tsenter, the Southeast Estonia Wood Cluster,
Tehnopol, and several educational institutions. The building was constructed by
Tesron Ehitus OÜ.