Sociability at Slush 2025: Accessibility in Tech

Last week, three members of the Sociability team travelled to Helsinki to attend Slush 2025, Europe's leading conference for technology startups. Since our first visit in 2022, when we competed for a €1 million investment and placed in the top three among 100 competitors, we have returned each year to gather new insights and connect with the global tech community.

The Slush conference is famous for its high-energy, "dark" aesthetic, but for us, it is a vital place to ensure that accessibility remains at the forefront of the innovation conversation.

Inside Slush 2025

The first day of the conference surprised us with bright, sunny weather, which was a welcome change from the heavy snow we have contended with on previous trips! Thanks to Helsinki’s extensive and highly accessible tram network, the journey from our hotel to the Messukeskus (the Slush venue) was quiet and trouble-free.

Entering the venue was an experience in itself. We were greeted by pyrotechnics, neon signage, and elaborate stage designs that felt more like a concert than a tech event. This year’s theme, "Ground State," focused on the foundational changes brought by AI—a topic that has huge implications for the future of inclusive technology.

Key Themes We Learned at Slush 2025

The talks at Slush 2025 covered everything from deep-tech to founder resilience. However, a few key themes stood out to us regarding the future of the disability community:

The importance of community

Many Slush speakers emphasised that while AI is moving fast, startups must stay connected to their users. For Sociability, this means ensuring that new tech tools actually solve real-world problems like "Is there a step at the entrance?" rather than just being "tech for tech's sake."

Navigating a changing technical landscape

Founders shared their lessons learned from previous technological changes, emphasising the need to stay flexible and plan for the long term.

AI and the future

At Slush 2025, founders discussed how AI can be a double-edged sword. While it offers new ways to map accessibility data, it also presents challenges in avoiding bias. We were there to advocate for the idea that "inclusive by design" is the only way forward for the next generation of AI startups.

Detailed Access Info: Navigating Slush 2025

If you are planning to attend Slush in future years, the event actually has some of the best accessibility features we have seen at a large-scale conference:

• The Venue: Messukeskus is fully step-free with automatic doors and spacious lifts to all floors.

• Seating: Each stage at Slush features dedicated wheelchair spots for audience members, and they even provide wheelchair-accessible ramps for speakers on stage.

• Sensory Support: Because Slush 2025 featured loud music and flashing lights, the organisers provided a "Quiet Room" and sensory toolkits (including earplugs and sunglasses) at the info points.

• Assistance Dogs: Guide and assistance dogs are fully welcome throughout the venue.

Exploring an Accessible Helsinki

Outside of the Slush conference, we took some time to explore Helsinki's city centre. We visited Esplanade Park, a popular urban green space that was decorated with festive lights, creating a beautiful winter atmosphere.

We also stopped by the Moomin shop, a treasure trove for fans of Tove Jansson's illustrated children’s books. After picking up gifts for friends, family, and ourselves, we headed to the Klaus K Hotel for dinner at Toscanini - an Italian restaurant serving delicious, authentic Tuscan dishes. It features level access, making it a perfect end to a busy day of networking at Slush.

FAQ: Your Questions on Slush 2025

1. Is Slush accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, the Messukeskus venue is world-class in its accessibility, featuring lifts to all levels, accessible toilets on every floor, and dedicated spots at all stages.

2. How do you get to the Slush venue?

Helsinki's public transport is excellent. Trams and trains to the Pasila station (near the venue) are step-free, and most have low-floor access.

3. Does Slush support attendees with sensory sensitivities?

Yes. Slush 2025 provided sensory toolkits and a dedicated Quiet Room to help attendees manage the high-stimulation environment of the main event.

4. Can I attend Slush as a disabled founder?

Absolutely. Slush is committed to being an "inclusive by design" event. They even offer free tickets for assistants or interpreters to ensure everyone can participate fully.

Final Thoughts From the Trip

Slush 2025 reminded us that despite technological progress, many of the barriers facing disabled people remain in place. So while technology continues to evolve, we're focusing on how it can help us create a more inclusive environment for our users.

Find Your Next Favourite Spot

We would love to hear your thoughts on this post. Planning a trip? Download the Sociability app to find accessible cafés, bars, and restaurants that meet your specific needs in seconds. You can also join our community and follow us on Instagram for the latest inclusive spots!

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