The GPT Lab Seinäjoki project, funded by AKKE, supports the regional strategy's focus on a "strengthening innovation ecosystem" and the "smart and skilled" strategy. Its aim is to bring new AI knowledge and technology to the region, promote R&D activities, and enhance the productivity of businesses.
The actions include training, international R&D collaboration, and technology forums that promote the integration of AI into businesses. The project strengthens the region's innovation capacity and lays the foundation for future AI projects. The results and impacts will be visible in scientific publications, educational content, and new projects, supporting South Ostrobothnia's strategy and creating a foundation for future innovations and competitiveness.
The project opens up international networking opportunities and supports IT education. The adoption of AI helps businesses in the green transition and in adhering to sustainable development principles. The target groups are SMEs, IT professionals, students, developers, and business development organizations.
Background
The competitiveness of businesses and organizations in South Ostrobothnia requires strengthening AI expertise, but there is a gap in competence capital in this area. The application of AI technology has rapidly increased across all industries, and its significance has grown particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, the service sector, and logistics. The GPT Lab Seinäjoki project addresses this need by bringing AI knowledge, promoting research, development, and innovation activities, and supporting the skills development of businesses and the higher education community. The project builds on the results of previous regional digital initiatives and aims to establish an AI competence hub in South Ostrobothnia.
Goal
The key objective of the project is to strengthen the ability of businesses in the South Ostrobothnia region to utilize AI, enhance regional innovation capacity, and support sustainable development. The project builds expertise in the multidisciplinary application of AI and deepens collaboration between local universities and businesses. The goal is to integrate AI research into regional business activities, support education, and create conditions for new AI-based projects. Through the project, companies will be provided with tools for developing and adopting AI solutions, supporting productivity and the green transition.
Impact
The project enhances the competitiveness of businesses in the region, supports research and development activities, and strengthens international networking. The adoption of AI facilitates companies' participation in the green transition and optimizes resource use in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. Through education and skills development, the project promotes the spread of new technology and supports the growth of the local higher education community. In the long term, the project's outcomes will have a positive impact on the economy, labor market, and innovation environment of South Ostrobothnia, ensuring that the region remains at the forefront of AI development.
Funding source
Regional Council of South Ostrobothnia, Alueiden kestävän kasvun ja elinvoiman tukeminen (AKKE) -määräraha
