“AI for Good – Artificial Intelligence with Positive Impact”

13.06.2025 News

On 3 June 2025, around 80 participants gathered at the RESOWI building of the University of Graz to discuss a central question: Can artificial intelligence (AI) be strategically utilised for societal benefit? The Social Business Hub Styria and the IDea_lab at the University of Graz hosted an evening filled with inspiring insights and engaging discussions.

From left to right: Jakob Gmoser (Co-founder, AITARK), Michael Freidl (Chief Data Officer, University of Graz and Head of the Data Lab), Kirsten Tangemann (Board Member, Social Business Hub Styria), Katharina Feiertag (Head of the Methods Lab), Rüdiger Wetzl (Board Member, Social Business Hub Styria), Klaus Candussi (Co-founder, capito) Photo: Manfred Hall

Following video messages from Regional Councillor Simone Schmiedtbauer, City Councillor Günter Riegler, and SFG Managing Director Christoph Ludwig, Katharina Feiertag, Head of the Methods Lab, opened the event by introducing the University of Graz’s interdisciplinary Digital Laboratory. The programme was moderated by Rüdiger Wetzl, Board Member of the Social Business Hub Styria.

AI as a Tool for Meaningful Innovation

Experts from various fields explored the potential of AI in Social & Green Entrepreneurship. Klaus Candussi (capito), Jakob Gmoser (AITARK), Kirsten Tangemann (Social Business Hub Styria), and Michael Freidl (IDea_lab) shared their perspectives, illustrating how AI can be leveraged to generate social value.

Photos (3): Manfred Hall

“AI is reshuffling the deck. Transitioning from chatbots to value creation with purpose is challenging and requires not only AI but also human creativity. That’s why I am pleased that, together with colleagues from the Social Business Hub Styria, we have been able to highlight ways in which we can meaningfully integrate impact and AI,” emphasised Michael Freidl, Chief Data Officer of the University of Graz and Head of the Data Lab.

Kirsten Tangemann, Board Member of the Social Business Hub Styria, also highlighted the importance of AI for social enterprises: “AI opens up new opportunities for social enterprises—helping them identify societal and environmental challenges early, optimise resource allocation, and support disadvantaged groups effectively. As a tool for data-driven decisions and scalable innovations, AI strengthens the impact and reach of mission-driven businesses in a sustainable way.”

Networking and Conclusion

The discussions continued during the subsequent networking session, leading to a clear conclusion: Yes, AI can drive positive change—provided it is deployed consciously and responsibly.

The Social Business Hub Styria extends its gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions and inspiring conversations. Together, we are shaping the future of Social & Green Entrepreneurship!

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