As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the business landscape, companies face complex challenges in implementing AI effectively. Through its comprehensive analysis of over 70 European companies’ AI adoption journeys, the Finnish AI Region (FAIR) project reveals critical insights into current trends, challenges, and success factors in AI implementation. This article presents key findings from FAIR’s AI consultancy services, offering valuable perspectives on AI maturity levels, technical expertise requirements, and sector-specific applications across startups and established businesses.