HelsinkiNano Initiative

The initial idea for the HelsinkiNano initiative arose from the recognition of the fact that the region has considerable expertise in nanoscience, but no body to gather together the research groups that are spread out in different universities. There is also a need to create new business activity and attract companies to the Helsinki region. Thus, HelsinkiNano was started to act as a catalyst to create contacts within the science world and also between companies and universities.

The HelsinkiNano initiative intends to pursue the following objectives:

• Review research activities in nanosciences and nanotechnology in the Helsinki region.
• Suggest a strategy for nanoscience and nanotechnology-related business as a part of a wider national nanostrategy.
• Develop the Helsinki region into a nanotechnology competence centre that attracts new business even on an international level.
• Support the creation of new business activities and transfer of new technologies into existing companies.

The objective is to turn the Helsinki region into an internationally significant developer and user of nanotechnology.

To achieve these objectives it is important that we:

• Train top experts.
• Support internationally high-level scientific work in the region.
• Create networks to support the commercialization of nanotechnology, both in existing and new companies. In addition to technical know-how, the business world needs risk funding, management skills, and understanding of market opportunities.
• Identification of research areas where Finland and the industry in the Helsinki region in particular can gain a competitive advantage.
• Appreciate the difference between nanoscience and nanotechnology. The role of science is to increase our understanding. Success is measured in the quality of scientific articles. Nanotechnology applies scientific – and also non-scientific – understanding to create benefits that are eventually measured in business success.
• In addition to obvious benefits, nanotechnology may also involve potential risks to health and the environment. These have to be monitored and, if necessary, regulated.