CEO on drone growth programme: “The organisations involved are genuinely committed to helping companies grow and succeed”

The IAS Business Academy offers drone technology companies business coaching and support for product development. Applications for the programme are now open.

Companies that use drones for applications such as surveying, monitoring or other services are also eligible to apply. The programme starts in January and runs for one year.

Applications are now open to new companies from Finland, Sweden and Estonia. Business Tampere is the Finnish partner in the programme.

Feedback from companies that have participated in the IAS Business Academy highlights the value of practical support, international connections and opportunities for business development.

Tomi Oravasaari, CEO and co-founder of Gridence Oy, particularly values the opportunity to meet other growth companies and share experiences.

“The IAS Business Academy has provided us with a valuable opportunity to connect with other startups, exchange experiences and learn from one another. The in-person meetings have been well organised and the training sessions excellent. The financial support provided by the programme has also accelerated our product development. I have recommended the programme to others and strongly encourage companies to apply.”

Antti Auvinen from Aufwin also emphasises the programme’s business-oriented approach and practical support.

“The IAS Business Academy is the first programme focused on business growth and internationalisation where I have genuinely felt that the organisations involved are truly committed to helping, advising and supporting companies in their growth. There is a strong hands-on approach throughout the programme, with practical support tailored to the individual needs of each company.”

According to Auvinen, international cooperation has also played a significant role.

“Cooperation with Estonia and Sweden has opened doors to public authorities in neighbouring countries in ways that would otherwise have been difficult for us to achieve. Networking with other Nordic companies has also been extremely valuable and has created new opportunities for collaboration.”

A year-long programme supporting international growth

The IAS Business Academy is a joint growth programme involving three countries. Its aim is to help companies operating in unmanned aviation and innovative aerial services develop their businesses and expand into international markets.

During a visit to Swedish drone industry organisations in January 2026, participating companies also explored autonomous underwater vehicles. Photo: Olli Ikäheimo.

The international growth of companies in the sector can be hindered by limited testing opportunities, complex regulations and a lack of resources to enter new markets. The IAS Business Academy addresses these challenges by providing expert support, networks and opportunities for companies to test their solutions.

Participating companies can benefit from tailored business coaching, access to international expertise and joint development and demonstration projects.

The programme also includes study visits to Finland, Estonia and Sweden, participation in international industry events and online training sessions.

Up to €15,000 in support per company

The IAS Business Academy provides up to €15,000 in support for each participating company’s growth. The support can be used for eligible expert services, international events, study visits and demonstration projects.

This is not a direct grant paid to the company. Instead, the programme covers eligible participation and development costs. Companies are required to contribute up to 20% of their direct costs.

Approximately 25 companies from Finland, Sweden and Estonia will be selected for the programme. The aim is to help companies increase their revenue and exports while strengthening their ability to attract investment.

Applications open until 19 November

The second round of the IAS Business Academy is particularly aimed at young growth companies that already have a market-ready product or service and are looking to expand internationally.

The programme is suitable for companies developing civilian and dual-use technologies. Applicants must commit to the year-long programme. Priority will be given to companies established in 2019 or later, although older companies may also be eligible under certain conditions.

The application deadline is 19 November 2026, and the selected companies will be announced in December. The programme will begin in January 2027.

The IAS Business Academy is co-funded by the EU’s Interreg Central Baltic Programme. It is led by Tartu Science Park in Estonia, with Business Tampere as the Finnish partner and Norrköping Science Park as the Swedish partner.

Learn more and apply

Applications close on 19 November 2026.

IAS Business Academy – Programme information and application