IAS Business Academy Seeks 25 Drone Startups Across Finland, Sweden and Estonia

The IAS Business Academy, a year-long growth programme for companies working with drone and unmanned aviation technologies in Finland, Sweden and Estonia, is accepting applications until 19 November 2026. The programme starts in January 2027 and around 25 companies will be chosen, Business Tampere said.

The programme offers tailored business coaching, access to international expertise, joint development and demonstration projects, study visits across the three countries, participation in industry events and online training. Participating firms can receive up to €15,000 to cover eligible participation and development costs. This is not a direct grant; companies must contribute up to 20% of their direct costs. Around 25 companies will be selected with the aim of increasing revenue, exports and investor readiness.

"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," said Tomi Oravasaari, CEO and co-founder of Gridence Oy.

"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," said Antti Auvinen of Aufwin. He added that cooperation with Estonia and Sweden has helped open doors to public authorities and created new collaboration opportunities.

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

The second round targets young growth companies with a market-ready product or service; civilian and dual-use technologies are eligible and priority will be given to companies founded in 2019 or later, though older firms may qualify in some cases. Selected companies will be announced in December 2026.

This second-round call builds on earlier IAS activity in the region, with a 2026 cohort that began the Growth Academy in Norrköping and planned a visit to the Tampere area earlier this year.

Tampere has also been developing local drone research and testing capacity, including plans to turn Teisko airfield into a drone research and test site as the city announced in August.