Aalto University School of Business’ Center for Knowledge and Innovation Research (CKIR) is a unique hub for interdisciplinary research and development, founded in 1999 under the former Helsinki School of Economics.
We are dedicated to creating new knowledge, fostering innovation, and making a positive impact on society. CKIR brings together brilliant minds from diverse disciplines to collaborate on real-world challenges, such as digital transformation, human empowerment, innovation ecosystems, and geopolitics. Our research aims to address complex challenges and opportunities of the modern world, driving economic growth and creating a more sustainable future.
Our main themes
Explore our five main themes to discover how CKIR is at the forefront of executing collaboration and research that advances innovation and societal progress.
1. Digital Transformation: AI, Data, Networks
Digital transformation represents a profound shift in the way organizations operate and deliver value to their customers. It involves the integration of digital technology into all areas of business, fundamentally changing how organizations function and deliver value to customers. The CKIR unit’s projects under this theme focus on three pivotal areas: AI, data, and networks.
Check our projects under the theme of Digital Transformation: AI, Data, Networks!
2. Environment, Cities, and Sustainable Development
The CKIR unit is committed to explore and advance the interplay between technology, business, and society. One of our primary themes, Environment, Cities, and Sustainable Development, stand out as a critical focus area. We want to answer to the pressing call for sustainable practices in urban development and environmental management. CKIR’s projects under this theme generate innovative solutions and strategies that enable sustainable growth, urban living, and protect the environment for future generations.
Check our projects under the theme of Environment, Cities, and Sustainable Development!
3. Human Empowerment, Skills, and Capabilities
CKIR’s projects under this theme are designed to address the multifaceted aspects of human perspectives of innovation management and implementation. By understanding emotions and human empowerment these projects aim to provide insights and solutions that enhance individual and organizational capabilities. The goal is to uncover strategies for creating an organizational environment that drives learning and innovation.
Check our projects under the theme of Human Empowerment, Skills, and Capabilities!
4. Innovation Ecosystems and Growth
One of our main themes is innovation ecosystems and start-ups, specifically the complex relationships between organizational ecosystems, governance structures, and societal impacts. CKIR’s projects under this theme support sustainable development, conceptualize governance mechanisms, and understand the societal implications of innovation and collaboration within ecosystems.
Check our projects under the theme of Innovation Ecosystems and Growth!
5. Geopolitics of Business and Technology
Lastly, geopolitics and security address the complex and dynamic interplay between global political forces and security challenges. CKIR’s projects under this theme aim to understand and mitigate risks in an interconnected world, focusing on the implications of geopolitical developments and security threats for businesses, governments, and societies.
Check our projects under the theme of Geopolitics of Business and Technology!