Seppo Säynäjäkangas Science Foundation

Calling all Pioneers.

+200

Funded projects

33

Active years

+600,000 €

Invested into science projects

On his 50th birthday in 1992, Professor Seppo Säynäjäkangas set up the foundation for Finnish pioneers.

15 years after inventing the world’s first wireless heart rate monitor, Polar’s founder wanted to help young people follow in his footsteps – and realize their dreams of driving innovation forward.

Whereas most foundations are set up after successful careers, Professor Säynäjäkangas sought to create a foundation to change the landscape of technology within his lifetime.

The Foundation is one of few in the Nordic countries to fund and support young students within the fields of technology via scientific research to positively change the world.

Seppo Säynäjäkangas Founder of Polar Electro Oy

“In four, five years, we will launch a health watch on the world market!

The microcomputer attached to the wrist constantly monitors a user’s state of health: temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, ECG, and alerts for any abnormalities. The Health watch is needed for many, and it will save preventable healthcare costs and guide individuals to seek for treatment when needed.”

Seppo Säynäjäkangas 1992

Who is the Foundation for?

The Foundation funds postgraduate studies and personal research programs of talented Finnish researchers and university students from the north of Finland.

The goal is to support research that drives the development of Finnish technology; especially in the Finnish electronics industry.

The grants are intended for postgraduate research, or to fund research work and trips abroad – with a view of promoting internationalization.

You are currently a student in a recognized university in northern Finland

Your studies focus on scientific research and technology

You can show how your research results can be applied to industry

You are a Finnish citizen

Foundation Timeline 2025

01

01.09.2025

Applications Open

02

31.10.2025

Applications Close

03

01.12.2025

Decision Making

04

29.12.2025

Funding Starts

“Our foundation is built on the idea that research can lead to world leading innovations – and create global business.”

Dr. Raija Laukkanen Board Member of Foundation

1982

Sport Tester PE2000

1990

Polar Cyclovantage

2007

Polar AW200

2023

Polar Vantage V3

Review process is done by independent reviewers, and the final decision and funding is done by the foundation board.

Applications are open 01.09.2025 - 31.10.2025

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