How can Finland achieve the 2030 artificial intelligence vision? − Interim report of the Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme compiles proposals for concrete aims and measures

The objective of the Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme is that Finnish industry’s assets in 2030 are sustainability, capacity for renewal, technological leadership and solutions that enable increasing the carbon handprint. The interim report compiles the concrete objectives and proposed measures for achieving the artificial intelligence vision for 2030. 

Business and industry will be shaped by the fourth industrial revolution, i.e. the digitalisation of production and services, as well as the transition towards sustainable activities that take the limits of the planet into account. The Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme launched in 2020 aims to make Finland a pioneer in the dual transition, that is the digital and green transition, by 2030.

“Our aim is that, in international comparison, Finnish SMEs will lead the development of digitalisation. The green and digital transitions are the most important drivers of sustainable development and economic competitiveness. The Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme focuses on the digitalisation of companies in the manufacturing industry and the renewal of value creation,” says Minister of Economic Affairs Mika Lintilä.

“The key assets of Finnish industry include sustainability, capacity for renewal and technological leadership. Finland’s ability to remain a leading country in technology and artificial intelligence exists, but it requires concrete and far-reaching measures today,” says Jussi Herlin, chair of the Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme.

During autumn 2021, the programme’s thematic sub-groups have, together with stakeholders, specified the objectives and defined the key results as well as the measures and indicators required by them. This interim report compiles the results of the work of the sub-groups and four proposals for achieving the vision of Finland as a winner in the dual transition in 2030.

1. Finland must invest in the development and introduction of leading technologies

Remaining a leading country in artificial intelligence will require increasing investments in new competencies and key technologies, including those related to the data economy, data-based value creation, high-performance computing and the integration of network technology and artificial intelligence. In addition to increasing skills, Finland must be able to attract more top international talent.

2. Nature smartness and digital technology are key to triple victory of sustainable development

Nature smartness means that companies use their products and solutions to create economic, social and environmental benefits for society. Investing simultaneously in nature smartness and digital technology will take Finland towards the triple victory in sustainable development. The triple victory relate to the economic, ecological and social benefits, which in practice translate into business growth, higher employment and wellbeing, and climate and environmental benefits.

3. Finnish companies are at the forefront of digitalisation internationally

Small and medium-sized industrial companies are at the heart of Finland’s national economy. The sustainable development of our economy depends to a significant degree on how SMEs can boost their productivity, improve their competitiveness and reduce their environmental footprint with the help of new technologies, for example.

Barriers to digital development in SMEs include limited resources, hectic everyday operations and lack of competence. These barriers must be addressed by both the public sector and the business community.

4. Finland is actively involved in creating the EU’s artificial intelligence, data and industrial strategies

Finland must be active in the development of artificial intelligence and digitalisation in the EU. The visibility of Finnish expertise in the EU must increase, and Finland must actively exert influence in the EU in areas such as potential export sectors.

Next year, the Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme will prioritise and specify the proposed measures.  The programme will continue until March 2023. 

Inquiries:
Jussi Herlin, Chair of the Artificial Intelligence 4.0 programme, jussi.herlin@kone.com 
Ilona Lundström, Director General and Vice Chair of the Artificial Intelligence 4.0 Programme, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 29 504 7186
Satu Vasamo-Koskinen, Chief Specialist, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 29 504 7073
Kristine Alanko, Coordinator, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, tel. +358 29 504 7344