The FORGE-AI project successfully launched its first training workshop on November 11–12 at the Muskhelishvili Institute of Computational Mathematics in Tbilisi. Over two intensive days, early-career researchers gathered to explore how cutting-edge ideas in artificial intelligence can evolve into impactful, real-world solutions.

Day 1: From Ideas to User-Driven Concepts
The opening day centered on transforming early-stage AI concepts into practical, user-oriented innovations. Following the welcome session, participants took a deep dive into startup fundamentals, examining how research outputs can grow into viable products. Guided by experts from Creative Cluster and DFKI, teams worked collaboratively to identify target users, craft value propositions, and outline potential pathways for societal and economic impact. Afternoon sessions introduced essential principles of user-centered design and storytelling. Participants learned how to communicate their project vision with clarity, coherence, and purpose. They immediately applied these skills in hands-on narrative-building activities, strengthening both their ideas and their presentation techniques.

Day 2: Strategy, Responsibility, and Real-World Deployment
The second day shifted toward the broader strategic landscape of AI innovation. Morning sessions covered intellectual property fundamentals and Responsible AI practices, equipping researchers with a deeper understanding of ethical development, legal protection, and long-term sustainability. Participants then explored various AI business models, gaining insight into how to build solutions that are both innovative and scalable. In the afternoon, teams engaged in an extended Business Model Canvas workshop, refining their initial concepts with structured guidance from mentors. The workshop concluded with an open Q&A, group reflections, and a celebratory toast marking the successful launch of the FORGE-AI training program.

This first workshop represents a key milestone in FORGE-AI’s mission: empowering emerging researchers with not only advanced technical knowledge, but also the entrepreneurial mindset and strategic vision required to create meaningful impact within the rapidly evolving European AI ecosystem. As additional trainings, secondments, and collaborative research activities approach, the enthusiasm shown in Tbilisi have laid a compelling foundation for the next phases of the FORGE-AI program.

The FORGE-AI project is set to begin its first capacity-building training workshop on November 11–12, 2025, hosted at the Muskhelishvili Institute of Computational Mathematics (MICM) in Tbilisi.

This two-day intensive training marks a key milestone in the Horizon Europe-funded initiative, aimed at strengthening Georgia’s AI research ecosystem by equipping emerging researchers with both technical and entrepreneurial skills. The agenda features a mix of expert-led sessions and hands-on teamwork. Day 1 will open with a welcome from GTU and an overview of the project, followed by a series of engaging sessions on startup fundamentals, business model design, and early-stage product thinking. Facilitated by experts from Creative Cluster (CC) and partner institutions, the program will guide participants through the process of transforming ideas into actionable research or innovation projects.

On Day 2, the focus shifts toward communication, collaboration, and applied foresight. Participants will engage in exercises around project storytelling, define personal and team development goals, and map out challenges and strategies for their own AI career paths. The workshop also includes group work sessions, networking opportunities, and expert guidance from both local and European trainers. Participants come from a diverse range of institutions across Georgia and Armenia, reflecting the project’s cross-border and cross-sector vision. Eleven young researchers from various fields at Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University will take part in the training.

This first workshop kicks off a series of training events designed to develop the next generation of AI leaders in the region, fostering new collaborations, sparking innovation, and laying the groundwork for long-term impact through FORGE-AI. Detailed agenda can be viewed here.