Peter Sarlin’s donation to strengthen AI research in Finland

The substantial donation supports AI research at thirteen universities, said the University of Helsinki in a press release on Wednesday.

Aalto University, Hanken School of Economics, National Defence University, Tampere University, University of Eastern Finland, University of Helsinki, University of Lapland, University of Jyväskylä, University of Oulu, University of the Arts Helsinki, University of Turku, University of Vaasa, and Åbo Akademi were the recipients of the supports given by Peter Sarlin foundation.

Additionally, the donation supports the activities of the international ELLIS Institute.

The forthcoming professorships represent a significant step in strengthening the AI research ecosystem in Finland and Europe and in promoting long-term competitiveness in the field of artificial intelligence, while also supporting the activities of the international ELLIS Institute.

Foundation PS, established by Peter Sarlin, aims to continue supporting world-class AI research in Finland, with a particular focus on the activities of the PS Fellow network formed through the professorships.

“In today’s world, AI is a key driver for competitiveness and growth, and Finland's success relies on world-class expertise and talent. To succeed, we must strengthen our AI capabilities in research, education, and industrial applications. My donation is intended to foster and grow an attractive environment for world-class AI expertise and breakthroughs across multiple disciplines. Together, we can accelerate Finland’s and Europe’s competitiveness on the global AI stage,” said Peter Sarlin.

“Investment in AI research paves the way for significant breakthroughs in AI applications as well. Peter Sarlin's visionary donation for AI research strengthens the high-quality and ambitious AI research conducted at the University of Helsinki. The donation will be allocated to establishing a new AI professorship,” said University of Helsinki Rector Sari Lindblom.

According to Sasu Tarkoma, Dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Helsinki, the donation will significantly support AI research and its impact.

“The AI research environment is now rapidly evolving with the CSC's supercomputer investment, the upcoming ELLIS Institute and new EU-funded AI activities. These investments will provide a strong base for cutting-edge research, offering resources, infrastructure, and international collaboration opportunities. This development creates excellent conditions to put Finnish AI research at the forefront of global research,” said Tarkoma.