AIStart AI Incubator has already helped nearly 80 companies – turning learnings into action right away
The AIStart Incubator program has supported almost 80 companies in adopting artificial intelligence. Both the companies and the AIStart team have been delighted to see how effectively the learnings have been put into practice, and how collaborative learning has enabled the rapid adoption of AI.
“We benefit from AI in every aspect of our work, as it has made coordination easier and introduced new ways of operating,” says Miro Harjumäki from Betonipörssi, one of the clients of the AI Incubator.
The AIStart AI Incubator initiative began in the spring and has already supported nearly 80 companies through two separate training programs, as well as the first English-language program launched in August. Organized by Haaga-Helia, the AIStart AI Incubator is a seven-week, hands-on training program for micro and SME companies that want to learn about the opportunities of AI without needing a significant technical background. The program is designed especially for companies taking their first steps in applying AI to areas such as sales, marketing, and customer service.
Project Manager Teijo Javanainen reflects on AIStart’s launch with satisfaction:
“It has been wonderful to see how eagerly participants have engaged in the training. Many have immediately applied what they learned in their own work, which has been great to witness. What has been especially rewarding is how active the participants have been. The discussions have been lively, and the practical exercises have been very well received.”
The lessons from the AI Incubator are put into practice in companies right away
Many participants have appreciated the practical approach of the AI Incubator trainings and felt that their understanding of AI has clearly grown during the program. The feedback has also praised the strong expertise of the trainers.
For example, Johanna Kaaretsalo, founder of HolWen and a wellbeing professional, participated in AIStart’s training in late spring. She now uses AI for tasks such as social media content creation, email marketing, research and article writing, translations, market analysis, and service design.
“I was completely surprised by how versatile AI can be. The current market situation requires continuous service development and increasing automation of operations. This takes a lot of time, and with AI I’ve gained something like a colleague to share the workload with me,” Kaaretsalo summarizes.
Innovations are not born alone: AIStart invites everyone into its ecosystem
At the AIStart AI Incubator, we firmly believe that AI should be accessible to everyone – after all, AI belongs to all. While there are already plenty of free programs available, companies often face the challenge of not knowing where to begin, what AI can actually enable, or with whom to start developing their own innovation. That’s why AIStart aims to bring together different actors and companies, creating an ecosystem around AI in the Helsinki metropolitan area that truly serves everyone.
Strong and extensive networks are essential, as innovating alone often produces less than desired results. AI is developing rapidly, and its true value emerges through community, shared experimentation, and diverse perspectives. AIStart brings together startups, researchers, public sector actors, and business representatives into a practical network through events, training, consulting, and even international business trips.
AIStart’s network specialist, Aline de Santa Izabel, oversees the ecosystem and reminds us that it’s not just about showcasing AI, but about co-developing real solutions and learning from one another, both nationally and internationally:
“What I especially look forward to in AIStart’s events are insightful discussions that evolve into collaboration. If you’re interested in seeing how an idea can turn into real impact with AI, this AIStart community is the right place for you.”
You can follow our events on our website and on social media (LinkedIn or Facebook), or join our network by filling in the form.
If you’re interested in participating in our upcoming training programs, read more here!