NestAI, a rapidly growing European physical AI lab, builds next-generation AI across domains such as logistics, inspection, surveillance, security and defence. NestAI’s core is its open, modular, and interoperable platforms for unmanned systems and command and control (C2). NestAI initiated the development in early 2025, with instrumental support from Business Finland, which enabled building the first working prototypes.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and midcap companies in the food and beverage sector will soon have access to two complementary funding opportunities to accelerate international growth. Food Exhibition Explorer provides grants for company groups to participate in international business-to-business exhibitions. Food Market Explorer, on the other hand, supports market research and the identification of potential customers or distributors.

Business Finland will tighten project reporting practices at the beginning of 2026. It is essential to be very careful, as funding will not be paid if the final project report is not submitted by the deadline. The changes apply to both new projects and those already in progress.

Business Finland has received a large number of applications for research and development funding. The high demand may slow down some R&D funding decisions at the end of the year.

The European Partnership for a sustainable Future of Food Systems (FutureFoodS) pre-announces the 2nd co-funded call for transnational research projects (pre-announcement). The opening of the call is expected in the second half of November 2025 and the dead line for pre-proposal submission will probably be in the end of January 2026. Details presented in this document may be subject to change before the opening of the call.

Business Finland’s new Perspectives for Innovation and Growth -series inspires companies to think about their growth strategies in light of long-term global developments. The series includes Snapshots of global trends that can shape or create future market opportunities, driving the need for sustainable renewal and innovation.

Finland is showcasing its food expertise and future innovations in Japan during September, emphasizing its leadership in food innovation and sustainability. The events at the Nordic Pavilion in Osaka’s World Expo highlight Finnish food technology, sustainable bio-based economy, and opportunities for collaboration between Finland and Japan.

The NIY funding, intended to support the growth and internationalization of startup companies, will be closed on October 10, 2025. The closure is due to significant reductions in the innovation funding allocations in next year’s state budget.

The calls for Tempo, Exhibition and Market Explorer funding services will close on Friday, 3 October 2025, at 23:59. The closed Talent funding also ends.