Tehnopol AI Accelerator mentors: The future of AI depends on transparency, courage, and evidence-based thinking

The Tehnopol Startup Incubator AI Accelerator helps early-stage teams bring their AI-based ideas to market faster while avoiding common early-stage mistakes. One of the program’s main strengths is its network of experienced mentors — including both technology entrepreneurs and research-driven development experts.

Throughout the accelerator, teams receive support in strategy, product, and business development, as well as access to a valuable network of Estonia’s top experts. Applications for the AI Accelerator are open until October 12.

Otto Mättas: “The next truly important AI unicorn will be born in Estonia”

Otto Mättas (pictured) is a technology expert who has focused on artificial intelligence for the past five years, working as a systems developer, architect, and strategist. According to him, Estonia is one of the best places in the world to create AI-based solutions.

“We have a society that trusts digital tools and a functioning e-state to build upon. This creates a unique sandbox for testing and developing solutions with an impact that reaches far beyond Estonia,” said Mättas. “I believe the next truly important AI unicorn will be born in Estonia — or from Estonian roots.”

He says he is looking for teams that don’t settle for already-known solutions but instead ask what kind of world we want to live in 10–20 years from now.

“I’m interested in ventures that operate at the frontier of today’s knowledge,” he added.

Kristjan Jansons: “AI success depends more on business challenges than technology”

Kristjan Jansons has worked in the field of artificial intelligence for over ten years and has seen more than 150 different projects. He emphasizes that the secret to a successful AI product lies beyond technology alone.

“The technology has to be smart, of course — but what truly matters is understanding the real business problem it solves,” he said.

According to Jansons, Estonia has the AI expertise to build unicorns with smaller teams than ever before. He also advises founders to think ahead when developing their products: “Don’t limit yourself to what AI can do today — think about where the technology will be in a couple of years.”

Tauri Tuubel: “Don’t rush if you haven’t validated your problem”

Tech entrepreneur and Reconeyez co-founder Tauri Tuubel brings hands-on experience from building a company from zero to global scale. Under his leadership, the company has developed an AI system that processes over 2 million images per day and is sold in more than 60 countries.

“If you haven’t validated your problem with real customers, don’t apply to an accelerator,” said Tuubel directly. “Your focus must be on a single use case and a fast cycle — from idea to customer testing in weeks, not months.”

His experience shows that a clear understanding of the problem and customers’ willingness to pay for the solution form the strongest foundation for any company.

The accelerator offers support and shortcuts

According to the mentors, the biggest value of the Tehnopol AI Accelerator lies in its network of experience and connections. “The accelerator gives you a network to rely on — whether you’re at the idea stage or already have your first customers,” said Otto Mättas. What matters most is that the problem is clearly defined and validated — something every founder must do themselves.

The Tehnopol AI Accelerator welcomes teams aiming to create innovative, world-changing AI solutions. Participation in the accelerator is free, and no equity is taken. At the end of the program, three startups developing the most promising AI technologies will each receive a €10,000 development grant.