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Briefly in English

AIRA – AI Solutions for Sustainable and Productive Knowledge Work

About the project

The AIRA project (1.1.2026–31.12.2027) co-develops new operating models for the implementation and utilisation of generative artificial intelligence in knowledge-intensive organisations. At the core of the project is balance: the goal is to simultaneously increase work productivity and ensure the human sustainability of employees, focusing on well-being, coping, and cognitive ergonomics.

As a result of the project, organisations will gain a better understanding of the well-being challenges brought by the rapid advancement of AI, alongside potential solutions and new operating models to address them. At the same time, the project increases the capabilities of employees and organisations to manage risks related to the AI transition and to adapt to the demands of new technologies. 

This human-centric approach ensures that changes are sustainable, promoting both business goals and employee well-being. The developed models can be widely applied across various workplaces to foster a humanly sustainable and productive working life.

Project Details:

  • Duration: 1.1.2026–31.12.2027
  • Partners: Forum Virium Helsinki (Lead Partner), Business Tampere, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences (KAMK), Oulu University of Applied Sciences (Oamk), and the City of Tampere.
  • Funding: The project is co-funded by the European Union (ESF+). The ESF+ funding has been granted through the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment of North Ostrobothnia.
  • Budget: The total budget of the project is €1,004,833, of which the ESF+ funding covers €803,866.

Boost productivity, protect wellbeing – join the AIRA AI pilots

Please note that the AIRA pilot program and coaching will be conducted in Finnish.

Generative AI is reshaping knowledge work at lightning speed, but technology alone isn’t enough, we need smarter ways to work. 

The AIRA project invites micro-businesses and SMEs to the forefront to pilot how Generative AI can be harnessed to boost both productivity and employee well-being.

We believe the best results come from balance: reducing cognitive load, preventing burnout, and gaining a competitive edge before your rivals do.

What Happens in the Pilots?

You will develop and test new ways of working directly within your daily operations, no heavy theory or detached projects. With expert support, your organisation will:

  • Map Current AI Use: Assess your current state of Generative AI usage and identify potential workload or well-being challenges.
  • Target a Concrete Workflow: Choose a specific daily task to enhance with AI, such as:
  1. Reporting and data analysis.
  2. Content creation and documentation.
  3. Information search and processing.
  4. Reducing overall expert workload.
  • Run Practical Trials: Experiment with AI tools in your normal routine using the research-backed #stairmethod.
  • Measure & Embed: Evaluate the impact on employee well-being and build permanent, human-centric operating models that streamline work without increasing stress.

Who Can Apply?

We are looking for a diverse mix of organisations that meet the following criteria:

  • Company Size: Must be a micro-enterprise or a small-to-medium-sized enterprise (SME).
  • Nature of Work: Finland-based organisations engaged in expert, office, knowledge-intensive, or innovation work. Participation can cover the entire organisation, a specific team, or a single employee.
  • Location: Priority is given to companies operating in the Helsinki, Tampere, Oulu, and Kajaani regions.
  • State Aid Regulations: Applicants must meet the criteria for de minimis state aid and provide a statement of previously received aid.
  • Language: Please note that the pilot program and coaching will be conducted in Finnish.

Selection and How to Apply

  • Limited Capacity: A maximum of 13 companies will be selected.
  • Rolling Admissions: The application process is continuous, and submissions are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Criteria: Selection is based on an overall assessment of target group fit, commitment, impact, and scalability.

Read more and submit your application on our website to secure your spot:
https://aira-projekti.fi/pilotit/