Location Innovation Hub

ongoing

The Location Innovation Hub (LIH) is a fully operational EDIH that supports the digital transformation of SMEs and PSOs through advanced services in GeoAI, location intelligence, digital twins, data spaces, and Test Before Invest services. With strong national roots in Finland and an expanding cross-border presence, LIH enters the consolidation phase with a high level of maturity and readiness to scale impact and innovation. Building on the success of the first period, LIH delivers all four core EDIH services—skills development, test before investment, access to finance, and ecosystem building—with a focus on location-enabled AI adoption. Its domain coverage supports Europe's twin digital and green transitions, addressing key areas such as biodiversity, smart cities, health and wellbeing, logistics, defence, and the space economy. LIH’s strategic policy alignment is demonstrated through: Support for DEP priorities and Digital Decade 2030 targets, Implementation of the AI Act, with tailored sectoral use cases, Promotion of data sovereignty and European/Gaia-X–aligned data spaces, Contributions to national initiatives like Finland’s Data Economy Growth Programme, while directly strengthening regional Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3). The project has structured clear work plan that ensures seamless continuation and targeted scale-up. Key features include: A strong AI services track, including GeoAI experimentation, training, and advisory support. Over 450 clients already served, with testbeds, guides, and training platforms ready for expansion Active participation in European networks, including the AI-on-Demand Platform, AI Factories, TEFs, and EDIH cooperation. With experienced partners, established platforms like Location Europe, and strategic tools such as Borrow-a-Researcher and the Location Innovation Academy, LIH is uniquely positioned to deliver high-impact digital innovation services—contributing to a sustainable, resilient, and digitally sovereign Europe.