The purpose of “SIX ManuGenius – Generative artificial intelligence to support the manufacturing industry” project is to create a cross-regional network covering almost all of Finland to support the manufacturing industry in the implementation of generative AI, a generative AI roadmap for the SME sector, pilots, and a European Digital Innovation Hub (EDIH) type service offering to support more efficient use of research laboratories in SIX ManuGenius areas in the SME sector. SIX ManuGenius is housed under the national Sustainable Industry X (SIX) initiative (www.six.fi). SIX brings together export-driven companies and subcontractors that aim to respond effectively to future challenges and creates a national RDI strategy to support the dual transition. At the heart of SIX ManuGenius is generative artificial intelligence. The most optimistic predictions have already declared that generative AI can revolutionize manufacturing, bringing clear benefits to product design, optimizing production processes, green manufacturing, documentation management, and even the end-to-end management of complex subcontracting chains. In the best-case scenario, this will bring competitive advantages and greener manufacturing to Finland. However, generative AI and its exploitation potential and risks are largely unknown. The SME sector needs applied research in order to take the first steps towards utilising generative AI in its own operations. SIX ManuGenius brings together the research expertise of Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK), Tampere University (TAU), Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences (JAMK), Savonia University of Applied Sciences (Savonia), University of Oulu (OY) and Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences (SeAMK), as well as Into Seinäjoki and Business Tampere. This expertise, together with companies, builds an extensive research entity to support the adoption of generative AI. The project includes both basic research (the operation and limitations of generative AI) and applied research.