Stockholm-Led program helps startups scale internationally with AI

A new international initiative is equipping startups across the Nordic and Baltic regions with the tools and expertise needed to scale their businesses using artificial intelligence. The GSAI (Global Scale-up with AI) program is a 10-month accelerator aimed at helping 15 selected startups navigate the complexities of international expansion by embedding AI into their core operations.

Developed through the Interreg Central Baltic project, the GSAI program unites leading innovation hubs from Sweden, Finland, and Estonia. Participants will engage in a series of workshops hosted in cities including Gävle, Stockholm, Salo, and Tallinn, where they will refine their value propositions, develop AI strategies, and prepare for entry into new global markets.

Organizers say the program fills a key gap in startup development by focusing on the strategic use of AI for international expansion. Movexum’s team emphasized that AI is no longer optional for startups aiming to grow globally and that the program offers targeted support at a critical stage in their development.

Through collaboration across borders, GSAI provides access to specialized knowledge in AI, scaling, and team productivity.

In today’s environment… it will not be possible for most start-ups to compete and grow internationally without harnessing the potential of AI… This Interreg Central Baltic project allows us to bring together world-leading expert knowledge… from Sweden, Finland, and Estonia.

Jini Nälsén, Movexum Project Manager

Expanding regional startup support

AI Sweden, a core program partner, brings experience from working with more than 160 innovation stakeholders. The organization has built extensive resources to support startups using AI, and is now expanding that support to the wider Nordic and Baltic region. GSAI builds on this foundation to help startups create long-term value and accelerate global reach.

Estonia’s Tehnopol Startup Incubator highlighted the country’s strong record in tech innovation and views GSAI as an opportunity for local startups to integrate AI into their growth plans. Similarly, Southern Finland’s Yrityssalo development agency sees the project as a valuable platform to help regional startups build partnerships and enter new markets.

With travel costs covered and workshops focused on real-world application, GSAI is designed to provide tangible growth outcomes. Participants will leave the program with a comprehensive scale-up plan, investor-ready pitches, and a roadmap for AI-driven international success.