Aalto Inventors
The first step on your innovation journey: Field-specific innovation training exclusively for researchers to discover the impact potential of your work.
Aalto Inventors innovation training program coming for AI and bioeconomy researchers this fall
Join to meet industry and academic thought-leaders, and gain widely applicable skills in communication, intellectual property, and business thinking for your future career. This program is designed as a first experience in innovation, so no prior knowledge is needed.
We are thrilled to announce the opening of the Aalto Inventors innovation training program for bioeconomy and AI researchers this fall!
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 with excellent participant feedback (4.64/5 rating and NPS 64). You can read more about the pilot program in the news here and here.
Inventors participant, spring 2025"I enjoyed meeting new people, especially company representatives who share the same interests and passion as I do. Hearing their stories was truly inspiring."
Why join?
- Enhance Your 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 1 ECTS credit
- Ongoing Support: Join the Inventors alumni network for continued support and collaboration
Who can join?
Aalto Inventors is for researchers — PhD students, postdocs, and faculty — who are curious about the societal and commercial opportunities of their work. No previous 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 early October. Detailed info on the sessions, participation and schedule will be sent to interested participants upon inquiry.
How do I join?
If you're interested in joining a program this fall: Let us know by reaching out to elettra.virtanen@aalto.fi with a short introduction of yourself (school, field, status of doctoral studies or research), latest by Wednesday 17.9. for bioeconomy or Thursday 25.9. for AI.
If you're from another field or want to stay updated about later programs: Join our waitlist here and we will message you when Inventors is coming to your field!
Be the first to know about upcoming Inventors program launches! (external link)
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The survey is open until Sunday 24 May 2026.Students’ opportunities for language learning to expand from autumn 2026
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