During this year's Young Startup Day, Erik Glas, founder of Kaaos Kaamos, has been named the winner of the Young Startup Award 2025. The prize is awarded by the incubators BIC Factory, eXpression Umeå and Uminova Innovation to highlight young, driven and talented entrepreneurs who are good role models for tomorrow's entrepreneurs.
This year's winner is an entrepreneur who lifts others - both literally and figuratively. With a passion for playful and inclusive circus, and an infectious commitment, Erik Glas is building something that extends far beyond himself.
Combining artistic vigour with purposeful entrepreneurship, he creates spaces where people can grow on their own terms. His work is characterised by warmth, joy and a desire to make a difference, not only for his audience but for society as a whole.
- Erik is a great role model, not only for his strong commitment and courage to follow his vision, but also for the way he goes about his work every day, inviting others along the way. With his warmth and positive energy, he makes people feel welcome, while showing that it is possible to combine inclusive artistry with professional entrepreneurship. It is truly inspiring," says Emil Hägglund from eXpression Umeå.
For his drive, dedication and ability to create movement, Erik Glas is awarded the Young Startup Award 2025.
The prize, which consists of a SEK 10,000 scholarship sponsored by Evac, was awarded during the Young Startup Day in Umeå on 29 April 2025.
- I am both proud and happy to receive this recognition. Of course, it gives me energy to continue working. I also get strength and energy from the people I have around me. The children, the teachers and the artists - they are the ones who make me feel energised to go to work," says Erik Glas.
Facts about the Young Startup Award
The Young Startup Award is presented to recognise young entrepreneurs who, through their work, inspire others and contribute to a vibrant and innovative business community. To be nominated for the award, the company must be a limited company registered in Västerbotten County, the company's owner must be under 40 years of age and the entrepreneur or entrepreneurs must be good role models for young entrepreneurs. The winners are often described with words such as young, driven, promising, talented and role model. The prize is awarded by BIC Factory, eXpression Umeå and Uminova Innovation in connection with the Young Startup Day event. The prize money is SEK 10,000 and is sponsored by the company Evak.
For more information, please contact:
Emil Hägglund, eXpression Umeå
emil.hagglund@expressionumea.se
076-141 05 05
Erik Glas, Kaaos Kaamos
erik@kaaoskaamos.com
072-718 26 79
