AI Labs: three meetups building knowledge and networks around machine learning

How do you move from curiosity to practical application in machine learning? Through the AI Labs meetup series, Tech Borås brought together developers from across the region to explore machine learning step by step – with a focus on learning, sharing and building a local community.

The series consisted of three meetups, where Kristoffer Johansson from Pine Grove Interactive guided participants from an introduction to datasets and core concepts, through to practical applications such as text classification, and finally to deploying machine learning solutions using MLOps. The aim was to make machine learning (ML) accessible, concrete and relevant.

“After around ten years in the tech industry, I’ve seen that many companies in Borås haven’t come very far in their use of machine learning. Instead, they often rely on external support rather than building solutions in-house. There is great potential here, and I want to help spark curiosity and increase knowledge of ML in the Borås region,” says Kristoffer.

From fundamentals to practical application

To achieve this, Kristoffer designed a series of three meetups that gradually built understanding while connecting theory with practice. Participants were able to start with no prior experience and, over time, develop their own solutions. By working with concrete examples and real-world challenges, machine learning moved from an abstract concept to a practical tool that participants could relate to their own organisations.

“My goal was to meet others interested in working with machine learning and to exchange experiences. Essentially, to start building an ML community in Borås. Developers shouldn’t have to travel to larger cities to find these kinds of forums – we have a lot to offer locally.”

Learning that builds connections

For Kristoffer, engaging with participants was a key part of the value. Attendees came from across the tech sector – from students to experienced developers with many years in the field. This created a dynamic environment where knowledge and perspectives could be shared. For many, it was their first hands-on experience with machine learning.

“Meeting several times was key. The first session was more tentative and exploratory, but by the third meetup there was greater curiosity and much more to discuss together.”

Strong potential for companies in Borås

AI Labs is an example of how Tech Borås can act as a platform for skills development, knowledge exchange and new initiatives within future technologies.

Kristoffer believes that as the use of generative AI continues to mature, machine learning will naturally become the next area for companies to explore.

“If I were to give one piece of advice, it would be to take the first step. You don’t need to know everything from the start – the point is to learn and explore along the way. That’s how we break new ground.”

This is one example of the work carried out at Tech Borås in 2025.

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