Applied AI brings researchers, innovators and industry together at Ulysseus Helsinki Week

More than 100 participants from the Ulysseus European University Alliance gathered in Helsinki for the Ulysseus Research & Innovation Conference and Innovation Hub Days, which was hosted by Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences October 6–8, 2026.

The three-day programme brought together researchers, students, innovation hub leaders, companies and startups to explore the opportunities of applied artificial intelligence, strengthen research collaboration, and discuss the future of the Ulysseus Innovation Hubs.

The events brought together Ulysseus partners with a common goal: how to strengthen cooperation between universities and create stronger connections with businesses, startups and regional innovation networks. Participants discussed how research and education can help address real-world challenges and opportunities created by artificial intelligence.

Universities and industry working together

The conference focused on how artificial intelligence is changing the way we learn, work and do business. Speakers and researchers discussed how universities can help people develop the skills needed in the future. Over the course of the three days, the participants also discussed how AI can be used responsibly, and how cooperation between researchers, educators and companies can lead to new solutions and innovations. 

–The discussions in Helsinki showed that the future of innovation lies in collaboration. Universities, businesses and startups bring different perspectives and expertise, and together they can develop solutions that have a real impact on society. At the same time, we must ensure that AI is developed and used responsibly, Applied AI for Business & Education Innovation Hub Manager Julia Reinhard emphasized. 

One of the goals was to ensure that research and education respond to real-world needs and create tangible benefits for society. This was demonstrated during a visit to Maria 01, one of Europe's leading startup hubs. At Maria 01 participants met entrepreneurs and learned how universities and businesses can work together to develop new ideas and opportunities.
 

–Three days demonstrated well the importance of student involvement in research and innovation activities. Students gained valuable opportunities to expand their international networks and engage directly with researchers, innovation professionals and industry representatives, Julia Reinhard says.

Looking ahead to Ulysseus III

As Ulysseus prepares for its next phase (Ulysseus III), participants agreed that the focus should increasingly shift from developing individual Innovation Hubs towards creating a connected European network of regionally embedded hubs. This network will strengthen research cooperation, foster innovation, support student engagement and build stronger links between universities and the industries.

Read more about the Ulysseus European University