Estonian President Alar Karis visited Chicago this week to spotlight Estonia’s leadership in artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and transatlantic partnership. Accompanied by a delegation of leading Estonian technology companies, President Karis met with university and business leaders to discuss responsible AI development and explore opportunities for collaboration between Estonian and U.S. innovators.

The visit comes amid President Karis’s ongoing calls for democratic nations to lead in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. In recent remarks, he urged governments to “find a way to subordinate new technology to our will” and to pursue interdependence over digital sovereignty through international collaboration.

“Estonia’s strength lies in our ability to innovate quickly, collaborate across borders, and ensure that technology serves people,” said President Karis. “Estonia’s innovators and research institutions are proving every day that ethical, secure, and human-centered digital solutions can scale globally. The United States is a key partner in that effort.”

Estonia deepens U.S. ties with 1oT telecom deal and Silen factory launch

The visit also coincides with several Estonian companies expanding their U.S. presence and cooperation. Estonia’s 1oT has announced a new agreement with a leading U.S. mobile network operator, to expand 1oT’s global connectivity footprint, underscoring how Estonian digital innovators are building strategic relationships with major U.S. companies. Silen, meanwhile, is preparing to open its first U.S. factory in Texas by 2027, marking a significant step in the company’s international growth.

“1oT’s agreement with a major U.S. telecom represents an exciting milestone as we bridge Estonia’s advanced digital ecosystem with leading U.S. industry partners,” said Andrew Worth, 1oT’s U.S. Country Manager. “Together, we’re helping shape the future of IoT connectivity.”

In Chicago, President Karis delivered a public address at the University of Chicago’s Global Forum Series on October 27, emphasizing how smaller, digitally advanced nations like Estonia can help shape the global AI agenda.

Ursel Velve, Chairman of the Management Board of Enterprise Estonia, said she was pleased to see during the visit that Estonian companies continue to view the U.S. as an important target market.

“Several Estonian companies have already found success there—for example, Silen has an impressive showroom in Chicago, and their soundproof pods are used by many major corporations, including Amazon. Nortal provides high-level IT solutions to large U.S. companies, and 1oT has recently signed a cooperation agreement with a leading U.S. telecom company to offer competitive mobile rates for IoT services—such as electric scooters and self-driving taxis, which are already a common sight on U.S. streets,” Velve noted.

According to her, many Estonian entrepreneurs found Chicago to be a very welcoming city for foreign businesses and a strong starting point for entering the U.S. market.

Estonian companies promote smart tech in U.S.

The Estonian delegation included companies representing AI, digital infrastructure, and smart technology, demonstrating the country’s commitment to open innovation and practical collaboration. The delegation included:

• 1oT – Telecom-independent eSIM connectivity provider enabling global IoT networks through a single platform; recently announced a new agreement with a leading U.S. telecom.
• Aristotle – Investment firm bridging European and U.S. markets, focused on technology and EdTech ventures.
• Nortal – International digital transformation company known for building national e-governance systems and public-sector innovation solutions.
• Piar – Developer of integrated smart-manufacturing software and hardware that optimizes inventory and digital operations.
• Silen – Creator of modular, soundproof workspace pods and mobile quiet rooms for offices, schools, and public environments.
• Thorgate – Software and product development group combining engineering expertise with venture building and startup acceleration.
• Vaimo – Global digital commerce agency delivering end-to-end e-commerce and customer experience solutions (Adobe Commerce, Magento).
• Enterprise Estonia – The national agency supporting business growth and international partnerships for Estonian companies.

The visit underscores Estonia’s expanding economic and innovation footprint in the United States, reflecting decades of cooperation on cybersecurity, e-governance, and digital trust. With AI now transforming every sector, Estonia seeks to demonstrate how the country can lead globally through open collaboration and shared standards.

GOOD TO KNOW

• Situated in Northern Europe, Estonia consistently ranks high internationally for liberal democracy, political stability, economic freedom, and low corruption.
• Estonia is a global leader in digital innovation. Known for its e-governance, the world’s first e-residency program, and boasting the highest number of startups per capita, Estonia offers a hassle-free and competitive business environment for global businesses.
• With a focus on transparency, efficiency, and forward-thinking solutions, Estonia is a trusted partner in business and diplomacy.
• Whether for work, investment, or exploration, Estonia provides a unique blend of innovation, opportunity, and quality of life.

This content is funded by the European Union – NextGenerationEU.

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