Finland shows innovation and well-being can go hand in hand

New Delhi,Oct 14: As AI and deep-tech innovation accelerate, technology companies are increasingly looking at how to sustain creativity, focus and performance over the long term. A new Superposition Index, developed by Business Finland in collaboration with doctoral researcher Ashish Thapliyal, highlights Finland as an example of how a strong R&D and innovation environment and high quality of life can exist alongside each other.

The Index examines countries across two equally weighted dimensions innovation and well-being using indicators including R&D investment, researcher intensity, patent applications, life expectancy, long working hours and quality of life. Finland invests more than 3% of its GDP in R&D and has one of the world's highest concentrations of researchers relative to its workforce.

The findings highlight that strong research and innovation capabilities can exist alongside an environment that values work-life balance and quality of life.

Creating the conditions for sustainable innovation

“Work-life balance is not about choosing well-being over ambition. In Finland, we believe that employee well-being and high performance can reinforce each other. Creating the right conditions for people to do their best work can benefit both employees and businesses,” said Laura Lindeman, Senior Director, Work in Finland.

For professionals working in AI and deep tech, where innovation often depends on sustained periods of experimentation, problem-solving and creative thinking, the working environment can also influence how effectively teams develop new ideas.

“In AI and deep tech, solving complex problems often requires more than speed – it requires time to focus, experiment and think creatively. Finland provides an example of how strong research and collaboration can exist alongside a culture that values sustainable ways of working. Creating that space can help technology professionals maintain focus and build solutions with long-term impact,” said Ankit Katiyar, Applied AI Engineer, Vaisala.

Innovation focused on real-world impact

Finland’s approach to innovation also places emphasis on how technology can improve people’s lives. The Millennium Technology Prize, awarded by Technology Academy Finland, recognises groundbreaking innovations with the potential to improve the quality of life of people and the planet.

Since 2004, the €1 million prize has been awarded every two years to an innovation with exceptional potential to improve quality of life. The next winner will be announced in spring 2027. 

Ahead of the announcement, talented scientific and technology-minded people from around the world can apply for an opportunity to experience Finland’s innovation ecosystem, including the 2027 

Millennium Technology Prize Forum and Award Ceremony and visits to leading deep-tech companies.  Applications are now open.