Organizational motivations for joining the national healthcare and social welfare AI innovation ecosystem

Innovation ecosystems are recognized as significant actors in promoting the adoption of digital innovations, such as artificial intelligence (AI). This study examines the organizational motivations for participating in Finland's government-led AI innovation ecosystem for healthcare and social welfare, which was established by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health in 2024. The research addresses two questions: (RQ1) What motivates organizations to join a government-led healthcare and social welfare AI innovation ecosystem, and what are the key mechanisms behind joining? and (RQ2) How do different types of organizations perceive and seek value within this ecosystem? Employing a theoretical framework that combines innovation systems theory and ecosystem theory, this study analyzes data from ecosystem member organizations (N=166) collected via an online questionnaire during the ecosystem's initial four months, from June to September 2024. Five key interconnected mechanisms driving participation were identified: (1) knowledge synergy, (2) resource allocation, (3) legitimacy enhancement, (4) regulatory influence, and (5) societal impact. These mechanisms interact in systemic ways, with each supporting and reinforcing others when present, while their absence can constrain ecosystem engagement. Private companies focus on market opportunities, public organizations prioritize organizational improvements and efficiency, and research institutions emphasize knowledge development alongside practical applications. The research contributes to the theoretical understanding of government-led innovation ecosystems, particularly for advancing AI development in public healthcare and social welfare, and offers insights for designing and managing such initiatives.