Photo: Brand Estonia
Since the autumn, Adapter, a collaboration network between universities and research institutions, has been relaunched, bringing together companies and researchers. It is a broad-based collaboration gateway through which a company can find the right experts and a clear path from idea to implementation. Adapter+ supports the “Smarter Estonia” principle, which aims to increase the capacity for knowledge transfer in higher education institutions and research institutions in conjunction with ASTRA+ Action 4 institutional support.
Jaanus Vahesalu, Photo: Arno Mikkor
Jaanus Vahesalu is the head of the collaboration network, whom we asked
How does the Adapter startup progress?
There needs to be greater cooperation between research institutions and companies, so launching the network is a mission-driven job. I have been in this role for almost a month, but I came across the previous Adapter (2016-2023) through my previous job at the Tallinn City Government, so the topic is familiar, but from a new angle. It is also good that cooperation partners from 26 universities, research institutions and competence centers have come along and are supportive and thoughtful.
How will Adapter work?
The goal is very practical, to have meaningful meetings. Things start to happen when or innovative ideas arise where people come together. That is why the emphasis is on events, such as clubs, networks, various events, so that people can meet. These activities are supported by a digital platform, which is a modern tool for entrepreneurs to find the most suitable service and partner institution. AIRE Center with its events and network is a good example for us.
Who is Adapter for?
Adapter’s target group is both small, medium-sized and larger companies that want to accelerate business development and find new, innovative solutions. We think that 1,300+ Estonian companies could participate in Adapter’s cooperation projects within five years, which makes up approximately 1% of registered companies. Of course, this network is also for researchers, so that they can bring their solutions to society, commercialize them, or turn them into a business. We could set an example here in the USA, where they are very good at it, we need to catch up in Europe.
Who should turn to Adapter?
If a company feels that it wants to develop new products, processes or services based on science, validate and test its ideas and services. Also research and development institutions that are looking for cooperation partners and implementation projects. In addition, the public and third sectors need evidence-based research or support for policymaking.
When will Adapter start working?
It is already gradually working, we have received the first inquiries. We will start the introduction in the second half of November, but the new version of our digital platform will be operational in mid-December.
What is the Adapter digital platform?
The Adapter digital platform is a smart way to find partners and cooperation, a link between science and business. The goal is for a company to quickly find a suitable cooperation partner among Estonian research institutions and the services they offer. An AI agent will be operating on the Adapter platform, which will help collect the necessary information.
