Research to Business (R2B) projects are commercialisation initiatives aimed at preparing the market introduction of science-based inventions. In the autumn 2025 funding round, Business Finland granted R2B funding to three new research projects at the University of Helsinki.
Inventions from various technology fields set for commercialisation
The new commercialisation projects starting in the beginning of 2026 represent various scientific disciplines, ranging from green and clean tech to deep tech and therapeutics:
- The Kudos – Cellular Twins project at the Meilahti campus is developing an AI-based solution to advance the diagnostics and treatment options for childhood cancers. This commercialisation project is being led by University Researcher Vilja Pietiäinen.
- The deep tech project ReliaCode from the Faculty of Social Sciences at the City Centre campus is investigating the use of large language models in data processing and analytics, ensuring the reliability and verifiability of the data is maintained. The project is led by University Researcher Aleksi Knuutila.
- The DopaGuard project at the Faculty of Pharmacy in Viikki is developing a solution that provides a long-term effective and more cost-efficient treatment for Parkinson's disease. It is co-led by professors Mikko Airavaara, Päivi Tammela and researcher Jayendrakumar Patel.
Research to Business funding is vital for the commercialisation of research in Finland
Business Finland's Research to Business funding is aimed at Finnish research projects that seek to transform their inventions into commercial success. With this funding, public research organisations can prepare the development of products or services based on their research findings and conduct applied research that promotes commercialisation. The duration of projects typically ranges from one and a half to two years.
“In Finland, the funding instruments that enable the commercialisation of research are practically limited to Business Finland's R2B funding. Obtaining this funding requires commitment and determination from researchers, as well as an established technology transfer and commercialisation unit at the university. Success in the funding application process is only achievable when the applications are well-prepared and research teams have invested in clearly presenting their inventions and research topics,” says Kajsa Kajander, Director of Operations at Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd, adding:
“Before a research-based idea or invention can be taken to market, years of work is needed, especially when it comes to innovations in the field of life sciences. At Helsinki Innovation Services, we assist in the preparation of commercialisation projects and support them in various ways through the necessary milestones, from patenting to conducting market analyses, developing business models, and submitting patent applications.”