Microfabrication Initiatives in Southwest Finland – VAMISTART

We pilot microprinting applications

Project Duration

1.10.2026 – 30.9.2027

Source of Funding

European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)

Total Funding

100,156 €

In the VAMISTART project, we pilot microfabrication and microprinting applications for health technology. Our goal is to identify microfabrication technologies suitable for regional companies, develop prototypes using these technologies, and evaluate their applicability in areas such as drug delivery, implants, and microfluidic systems. The project strengthens microfabrication expertise in Southwest Finland and lowers the barrier to adopting emerging manufacturing technologies. The results will provide companies with practical knowledge for developing new products and innovations.

How can increasingly smaller, more precise and more functional health technology products be developed cost-effectively? The miniaturisation of health technology is creating a growing need for manufacturing methods capable of producing extremely small and complex structures. Conventional manufacturing methods are not always suitable for producing microscale components, while the adoption of new technologies is slowed by limited expertise, equipment, and practical experience. Many companies in Southwest Finland therefore need information and concrete examples of how microfabrication and microprinting technologies can be used to develop new products and innovations.

What will be done in the project?

The VAMISTART project explores how microfabrication and microprinting technologies can be used in the development of health technology products. The project maps the needs of regional companies, identifies promising applications and carries out demonstrations in cooperation with international microfabrication service providers. Potential pilot applications include drug delivery devices, implants and microfluidic systems. The project also assesses the suitability of different microfabrication methods for meeting the quality, functionality and cost requirements of health technology.

What results does the project aim to achieve?

The project will produce prototypes, practical experience and assessments of the suitability of microfabrication technologies for health technology applications. Companies will gain information on the opportunities offered by new technologies and how to use them in product development and innovation. The project will strengthen expertise in microfabrication in Southwest Finland, increase cooperation between companies and research organisations, and lay the groundwork for new research and development projects. The results will be published openly for use by companies, research organisations and other stakeholders in the region.

Activities

• map microfabrication technologies and their service providers
• identify company needs and potential applications
• carry out microfabrication demonstrations and produce prototypes
• test and evaluate the functionality of the manufactured solutions
• analyse the suitability and scalability of the technologies
• share the results through seminars, networks and publications.

Who is the project intended for?

The project is aimed particularly at health technology companies that develop or manufacture solutions such as drug delivery systems, implants, in vitro diagnostic components, wearable health technologies or microfluidic devices. Other beneficiaries include higher education institutions, research organisations and other regional actors interested in the potential of microfabrication for developing new products and services.