Innovative Aerial Services (IAS), such as drone-based logistics, inspection, and data collection, are growing rapidly worldwide. In the Central Baltic region, Estonia, Finland and Sweden have strong IAS startups with market-ready solutions, but these companies often struggle with limited testing opportunities, complex regulations and lack of internationalization support. IAS Business Academy was created to address these barriers by providing young companies with the skills, networks and real-world opportunities they need to scale internationally.
Purpose of project
The purpose of IAS Business Academy is to help early-stage IAS companies move beyond their local markets and grow across borders. The programme offers a year-long growth journey that combines mentoring, training, study trips, pilot projects and participation in major industry events. Two full Academy programmes will be run, each supporting around 25 companies that are selected based on clear criteria: operating in IAS, being less than seven years old (with some flexibility), and having market-ready solutions with ambition to scale.
Companies in the programme recieve:
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Regular online trainings and workshops on industry and business topics
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Up to 40 hours of tailored expert mentoring per company
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Study trips and trade missions to Estonia, Finland and Sweden
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Participation in international industry events such as Amsterdam Drone Week and XPONENTIAL
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Opportunity to run pilot and demo projects with real end-users
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Access to networks of corporates, public authorities and investors across the Central Baltic
- Practical knowledge of business development, financing, international markets, and regulations
Expected results
IAS Business Academy will support 50 growth-oriented IAS companies, equipping them with stronger skills, networks and international exposure. At least 40 of these are expected to reach scaleup status by the end of the project. In addition, around 30 more companies will benefit from open workshops and events. The project will also strengthen long-term cooperation between the Estonian, Finnish and Swedish IAS ecosystems, building a foundation for future joint innovation and a more competitive regional drone industry.
Project information
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Total Budget: 1 562 139 €
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Funding: Interreg Central Baltic Programme, with co-financing from project partners
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Partners: Norrköping Science Park (Sweden), Tartu Science Park (Estonia), Business Tampere (Finland)
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Project Period: 01.06.2025 – 31.05.2028
Website: https://centralbaltic.eu/project/ias-business-academy/
Application
If you are interested in participating in the program, you can find the application form here.
