The AIRA project addresses the challenges of the AI transformation by co-creating, piloting, and evaluating solutions for the implementation and utilisation of artificial intelligence in working life.
Objectives
The objective of the AIRA – Human Sustainability and Productivity in Knowledge Work through AI Solutions project is to co-create new operating models for utilising and implementing generative AI within knowledge-intensive and innovation-driven organisations. The goal is to simultaneously increase productivity and human sustainability.
As a result of the project, we will gain a deeper understanding of the well-being challenges posed by the rapid advancement of AI and the potential solutions and operating models available to address them. Furthermore, the project strengthens the capacity of both employees and organisations to manage risks related to the AI transition and develops models that meet the demands of new technology.
A human-centric approach ensures that changes are sustainable and promote both business objectives and employee well-being. The models developed during the project for the successful deployment of generative AI can be applied and utilised broadly across various workplaces, fostering a humanly sustainable and productive working life.
Duration, Partners, and Funding
- Project Duration: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027
- Partners: Business Tampere, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences (KAMK), Oulu University of Applied Sciences (Oamk), City of Tampere
- Funder: Co-funded by the European Union. ESF+ (European Social Fund Plus) funding has been granted through the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre) for North Finland.
- Budget: The total project budget is €1,004,833, of which the ESF+ contribution is €803,866. Forum Virium Helsinki’s share of the total budget is €383,266.
The Role of Forum Virium Helsinki
Forum Virium Helsinki acts as the project coordinator and lead partner, responsible for the overall content coordination, internal communication, and information exchange.
Forum Virium Helsinki holds the coordination responsibility for piloting AI-based solutions and operating models, focusing particularly on the private sector pilot group. Additionally, Forum Virium is responsible for the planning and coordination of external communication, as well as the measures related to the integration and anchoring of project results.
Benefits for Helsinki
The project works in close collaboration with the FAIR (Finnish AI Region) project managed by the City of Helsinki and its Uusimaa business ecosystem group, which strengthens the project’s national reach. Forum Virium Helsinki collaborates closely with the City of Helsinki, particularly its Data and Analytics team, ensuring that the results and insights are effectively transferred to the city’s various organisational units.
Sustainability
The AIRA project promotes human, social, cultural, and economic sustainability. By co-creating new models for utilising generative AI, the project aims to enhance human-centric sustainability and productivity in knowledge work. This includes strengthening employee well-being by addressing challenges related to cognitive load and social isolation.
Photo: N2 Albiino, Helsinki Partners