We are thrilled to announce the opening of the Aalto Inventors innovation training program for hydrogen, quantum and microelectronics researchers this spring!

Aalto Inventors is a field-specific innovation training program designed specifically for researchers to discover the potential of their work and to turn scientific breakthroughs into real-world impact. The program is designed as a first experience in innovation, so no prior knowledge is needed. 

During the program, you will meet industry experts, entrepreneurs and fellow researchers from your field to hear their stories and build your professional network. Along the way, you’ll gain widely applicable skills in communication, funding, intellectual property, and business thinking that will benefit your future career.

The program was first piloted in spring 2025 and has been run in bioeconomy and AI with excellent participant feedback (4.27/5 rating and NPS 46). You can read more about the first program in the news here and here.

Why join?  

• Enhance skills for your future career: Learn how to build impact, secure funding, and protect your ideas
• Expert guidance: Receive mentorship from academia, industry, and law professionals to navigate the innovation ecosystem
• Expand your network: Connect with fellow researchers, industry experts, and entrepreneurs in your field
• Official recognition: Receive a certificate upon program completion + possibility of earning 2 ECTS credits
• Alumni opportunities: Join the Inventors alumni network for continued support and collaboration opportunities

Who can join?

Aalto Inventors is for researchers — especially for doctoral and postdocs, but open to all faculty — who are curious about the societal and commercial opportunities of their work. This program is designed as a first experience in innovation, so no prior experience in innovation or business is required to participate.

The program consists of 8 training sessions organized on the Aalto campus in Espoo starting in February/March and ending in April/May depending on program. Detailed info on the sessions, participation and schedule can be found in the documents below (log-in required).

How do I join?

If you're interested in joining a program this spring, let us know by reaching out to elettra.virtanen@aalto.fi with a short introduction of yourself (school, research focus, status of doctoral studies or research) by the following deadlines:

Quantum program registration deadline 21.1.2026
Microelectronics program registration deadline 29.1.2026
Hydrogen program registration deadline 30.1.2026

If you're from another field or want to stay updated about later programs, join our waitlist here! We will reach out when Inventors is coming to your field.