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Home , Central Finland, Central Ostrobothnia, Hyrynsalmi, Iisalmi, Kainuu, Kannus

EAST & NORTH Smart Specialisation News ...... 2018

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LAPLAND

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OULU REGION

CENTRAL

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POHJOIS-SAVO

SOUTH SAVO

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7. EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS

East & North Finland Contents ... 4 Lapland is a unique Arctic region that strives to be the most innovative and – the realm of pure nature, business-driven sparsely populated area high technology and human wellbeing “ in the EU and Circumpolar Arctic by 2022. East & North Finland Smart Specalisation News

Coordinator East-North Finland is the home of thousand lakes, pristine nature and amended Kristiina Jokelainen natural resources. Sustainable utilisation of the natural resources and conditions Regional Council of Lapland generates the backbone of the regional economy. Smart development and use of ICT solutions supports regions to turn the challenges to opportunities. Art Direction & Design Lasse Paldanius REGION ... 6 ast-North Finland (ENF) is It is challenging to maintain the continuously adapt, innovate, facilitate The Oulu region has the world-class formed by seven regions – preconditions for sustainable development investment in new technologies and KAINUU ... 8 Press expertise in the fields like ICT and Lapland, Oulu Region, Central under Northern conditions of harsh implementation changes supporting Suomalainen refinement of raw timber material. Kainuu provides an outstanding Ostrobothnia, Kainuu, Pohjois- climate and fragile nature. Therefore, the transition to a low-carbon energy Lehtipaino Oy Development is based on nature-related environment for living, working Savo, and South introducing the principles of circular and circular economy. values and human wellbeing. life and businesses! Savo. The natural environment economy and resource efficiency to all ENF is 7 NUTS III level regions having “ Eplays a far more important role in the ENF industrial sectors and enterprises of all their place-based Smart Specialisation “ than in other parts of Finland and European sizes is crucial for the sustainable economic Strategies (S3) highlighting the region Union. The ENF regions are a mixture of development. The long distances and specific advantages. Strategies share abundant natural resources. Vast common features to find best deposits of natural resources provide way to capitalise the natural business opportunities and generate Industries utilising resources and conditions investments and employment. At the providing the best added value same time, there is a pressing need and processing the for the regions, to sustain the to create and nurture a sustainable natural resources in vital cities and dynamic rural balance between these industries, areas and engaging regional other sectors and the vulnerable the ENF regions provide stakeholders to the practical CENTRAL northern nature. “ implementation. The regions have the foundation for Industries utilising and also complementary competences OSTROBOTHNIA ... 10 processing the natural resources economic development. such as specific expertise on POHJOIS-SAVO ... 12 in the ENF regions provide the ICT, advanced manufacturing, Central Ostrobotnia can be called a OULU foundation for economic development. chemistry, circular economy and Biovalley region which means that the Pohjois-Savo is a dynamic region Traditionally, the regional ecosystems in declining population in the ENF require the Pharmaceuticals and health technology. area has rich natural resources and with high-level growing enterprises, ENF have been a mix of large, medium, development of next generation innovation Each of the seven S3s fosters an open, strong industrial profile with strong excellent science and technology, and small-scale actors. Industrial activities platforms, living labs, distance spanning inclusive and participative method to “ connections to international trade. industry and security. among them have catalysed a number of clusters and digital innovation hubs (DIH), achieve a higher integration of regional “ innovative start-ups, in close interaction better connected to the European RDI RDI assets. S3s are aiming to strengthen with regional RDI actors. resources. This is a critical prerequisite the regional playground, taking advantage The ENF industrial ecosystem for over-coming the issues linked to the of the broad based innovation – creating provides a diverse breeding ground for lack of critical mass in the region. In a breeding ground for the cross-sectorial new emerging industries, supporting the the sparsely populated regions, digital collaboration. management of industrial symbiosis, solutions can make distances shorter, new energy solutions, renewable low- improve services for rural communities carbon materials and clean-tech solutions and support growth and job creation. In the next pages you can have a closer Cover photos: to all industrial sectors. The tourism Together ENF sent the Expression look to regions and their solutions 1. Lapin materiaalipankki | Simo Vilhunen industry is increasing its importance of Interest to participate in a pilot on to be smartly specialised. 2. OuluHealth | Oulu Region in the regional economy. It is crucial industrial transition and was accepted 3. Critical Force Ltd. | Kainuu Region to ensure that the growth of the global among 11 other regions and countries. 4. Biovalley | 5. , Vieremä | Pohjois-Savo tourism sector is balanced in the long- Together all seven regions are seeking to 6. ForestPhotonics 17 | Tuukka Pakarinen term, bringing equal benefits to all parts strengthen regional industry’s ability to 7. FiberLaboratory | of the region.

Expertise on managing and refining natural resources and conditions East and North Finland (ENF) is · Forest bioeconomy and wood products ENF is 7 NUTS III level regions - 7 S3s formed by Lapland, Oulu region, · Rock, mining and metal industries built on the strengths and opportunities NORTH KARELIA ... 14 Central Ostrobothnia, Kainuu, · Environmental of that particular region Towards fossil oil-free and low-carbon and water technology Pohjois-Savo, North-Karelia North Karelia with solutions from and South Savo · Food industries Common features: · Tourism and Arctic expertise forest bioeconomy and technologies FACTS OF · Land area 202593,9 km², · Natural resources - minerals and stone, 67% of Finland’s land area Complementary competences forestry, fields and water – sustainable & materials. · Material and mechanical engineering · 1,3 million inhabitants 25% capitalisation of natural resources “ · Wellness and health technology EAST & of the population · Tourism and vital rural areas · Density under 10 inhabitants/km² · Information and communication technology, · Constitute 19,42 % of the Finland’s printed electronics and measuring technology Complementary specialisations economy (2016) · Managing of circular economy NORTH and RDI SOUTH SAVO ... 16 · Provides 19, 6 % of the Finland · Utilisation of KETs and ICT · wide network of regional vocational export (2015-2017) · Advanced manufacturing – wood, materials, All the core actors of the region including education institutions FINLAND · Tourism demand 40% from steel machinery and energy etc. research institutes, cities, municipalities · 3 universities and 3 university consortiums the total national demand (2016) · Chemistry and citizens molded the shared vision of · 7 University of applied sciences with several · Pharmaceuticals and health technology regional locations South Savo’s smart specialization strategy. · Sector specific research institutions “ 2 3 EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS LAPLAND Arctic Smartness – Implementing Learn more about Arctic Smartness: the Smart Specialisation in Lapland ARCTICSMARTNESS.EU

Return to mplementing smart square one Arctic University of Lapland, Regional specialisation, Lapland to examine the Council of Lapland and Lapland research and has developed a systematic education Safety University of Applied Sciences, regional development services have also been successful approach based on Arctic Arctic Industry due to regional cooperation, Smartness brand and and Circular In need of for example, in the funding wider perspective? Icooperation. The vision of Arctic Economy Contact non profit application processes of the Smartness is that Lapland is organisations and Arctic European Union’s spearhead associations recognised as the most innovative FIVE ARCTIC Design programme, Horizon 2020. sparsely populated region in the SMARTNESS CLUSTERS Lapland is also actively involved EU by 2022. Arctic Smartness in the partnerships between the is reaching towards its vision smart specialisation themes and by focusing on regional clusters LAPLAND the lead has been assigned to and ecosystem. These clusters Lapland in tourism, bioenergy support the co-creation and Put the CREATING ADDED VALUE, and sports. Arctic Smartness GROWTH, JOBS AND NEW Reach the development of the new regional clusters to efficient Promoting cluster INNOVATIONS FOR BUSINESS full speed for use: find a new value chains that generate THROUGH SPECIALISATION your innovation: cooperation in business European project contact funders growth and innovation activities partner Success of Lapland includes International Growth of SMEs. The implementation and authorities new research, development and of the Lapland S3 focuses on innovation projects. These projects Wait for emphasising the cross-cutting 2 throws and have been created in cooperation interaction, which will stimulate Arctic develop an idea for Arctic with regional development actors. a new project in the from Smart Specialisation the finding of new interfaces Smart Rural meantime with The network of Lapland’s regional Development where cross-fertilisation appears. Communities local business developers has become even development Environments Photo: Lapin materiaalipankki | Simo Vilhunen With the modern clusters of services stronger and faith in doing things Arctic industry and circular together has been fortified. economy, Arctic smart rural This has also resulted in the Lapland is by its nature the international region. Arctic is part of everyday life in Lapland. People in Lapland communities, Arctic design, sector and financiers is at the core business. The steadily progressing Finland, for example, has gradual activation of the business have adapted themselves and their activities to the environment with a goal to become high level experts Arctic safety and Arctic of modern cluster activities. The locomotive is driven by the new clearly reinforced its regional sector. The greatest challenge, development environments, work has brought resources and innovative fields, in addition to status and launched several however, remains: how to make in Finland and in EU on sustainable development of the northernmost regions. Lapland aims to be an Lapland is looking beyond the visibility to regional development the growth of the traditional new research and development the development work visible in internationally competetive region and the most innovative sparsely populated area. organisation boundaries and and research. Over the past industry and tourism. projects with the help of both the turnover and profit of local over the national borders. years, new objectives have been The excellent cluster work local and international funding. SMEs in the long run? The cooperation between set with a stronger emphasis has brought added resources Other research and development apland, as the northernmost current overall picture and potential industries of natural resources are built driving force with regional stakeholders. businesses, research and on the region’s emerging lines and success to each partner. organisations, such as the region of Finland and European of cross-sectoral cooperation. By this on mining and minerals, forestry and In Lapland, resource efficiency and smart educational institutes, the public of business and needs of the The Natural Resources Institute Geological Survey of Finland, Union, is in the middle of way the foundation for innovation rapidly growing nature-based tourism. utilisation of raw materials in addition global changes, challenges and development of solutions towards With the lead of these industries there is to increasing self-sufficiency are targets and opportunities. Sustainable international market is created. The diverse industrial and support service, that are creating competitive advantage development is the foundation objective of international cooperation natural product and food processing for industries in Finland and European The future looks Lof growth in Lapland. Looking for the is to increase produced added value for business in Lapland, which creates Union. Mining and metallurgy have an balance in the utilisation of natural international business important role when pursuing these resources and sustainable development and vitality for the whole targets, which has led to systematic Smart and Excellent leads continuous economic and social By being an active player region. Lapland’s SMEs development of industrial symbiosis and Lapland is a unique Arctic region that strives to be the most innovative and business-driven sparsely populated benefits for current generations and ones in the international are characterised by circular economy activities in Lapland. area in the EU and Circumpolar Arctic by 2022. Strategic priorities of Lapland’s Smart Specialisation are to come. Taking our own place in global cross-boarder business. “By only taking part, carrying out included in 2018 as a part of strategy called Lapland – the Arctic and International Highflyer. Until 2022, operational environment is the foundation network, the regions can Strategic approach and our own responsibilities and leading the focus of Smart Specialisation is in internationalisation and following three priorities. for growth and for internationalisation strategic investments the development ourselves we can now and in the future. Lapland aims to truly have an influence on have contributed to make difference. The mining regions PRIORITY 1: Advanced Arctic Industry be a recognised region which relies on “ the emergence of new cooperation stands as a great example – foundation for the growth LAPLAND IS seeking to become more competitive the crucial matters.” strong arctic arctic export and competence. development ideas in about this”, says Director of International and innovative sparsely populated region. Smart and arctic knowledge, sustainable the fields of natural Relations Kristiina Jokelainen from Arctic circular economy Arctic sustainable tourism By now, the region has gained visibility and utilisation of natural resources and strong everyday life in Lapland and support products and tourism. Regional Council of Lapland. “As the Growth in business by increasing Emerging industries a firm foothold in many international forums. communities are the evolving competitive the growth. Smart solutions must to Lapland doesn’t want to be a mere next initiative among others, we want to the refining of natural resources as new business facilitators At the same time, new businesses have been Innovations advantages of Lapland. be created and means of harnessing onlooker when it comes to the Arctic. strengthen the refining of natural products established throughout the region. The goal Strengthening the international the regional competence for sustainable By being an active player in the and food processing in Lapland. Also, is to support the competitiveness and growth cooperation “In Lapland, we see development need to be put in to use. international network, the regions can growing sustainable tourism will be in of clusters that are genuinely market-based international cooperation as a serious Be active to make a difference! truly have an influence on the crucial the core of development of international Energy efficiency and strive to be international. Ecosystem based business”, says Development Director, The most important themes for Lapland matters. One good example of this is the activities, Jokelainen adds. Sustainable Low-carbon approach to cooperation provides new operating regional Päivi Ekdahl from the Regional Council of are the sustainable utilisation of natural generation of European mining regions Educational solutions development Renewing regional models for business life in Lapland and they Lapland. In addition to internationalisation, resources and conditions and increasing network, where Lapland has been the supporting the economical of Lapland ecosystem supporting strengthen, for example, our public and private growth and internationalisation Digitalisation Vision 2030 the economical growth Lapland is emphasising regional ecosystem value of resources by refining. The driver funding opportunities. thinking deepen the understanding of Strong Arctic and international actor Clusters strenghtening Internationally strong the regional value Key players in Smart Specialisation: and attractive area Sustainable policies of the new EU industrial strategy chains development REGIONAL COUNCIL OF LAPLAND remains grateful University of Lapland, Lapland University of for the regional partners and experts involved Applied Sciences, Geological Survey of Finland, PRIORITY 2: PRIORITY 3: 179 220 (2017) inhabitants, Knowledge, renewing and Arctic innovation and Interregional Regional ecosystem in cluster development and Arctic Smartness Total turnover: 12 000 M€ Natural Resource Institute Finland, Digipolis density 1,93 people per km² innovations strengthening development environments collaboration develop- as a base for cooperation. The dedication and hard work for GDP 6350: M€ (2015) Ltd, Rovaniemi Developoment Ltd, ProAgria as drivers for the growth ing the whole region the growth and international internationalisation the mutual goals has led to tangible results. Total area 100 366 km², from which: Lapland, Regional Council of Lapland. business Turnover growth 2016–2017: Lakes and rivers 7699 km² Supportive and helpful attitude of dozens of +9,5% in Lapland compared Forest 90 500 km² The Sámi, the only indigenous 1. Advanced Arctic industry – foundation for the growth is focusing on arctic circular economy, arctic sustainable people in Lapland has enabled more powerful to +6,2% average in Finland people of the EU tourism, creating growth by increasing the refining of natural resources and new emerging industries as new business development to build on. We believe, that even Number of enterprises: 9094 FACTS OF 4th strongest export region in Finland: 1,000 km open border with 3 countries facilitators. Economy in Lapland is growing and efforts for increasing the business skills, strengthening the leading greater results will be achieved together in the

Main industries: 3800 M€ export revenues sectors and supporting new bold innovations lay foundation for success and development. future. Mining and metallurgy: 5000 M€ 7 % of the national export The world’s largest organic harvesting area LAPLAND 2. Arctic knowledge, renewing and innovations strengthening the growth and international business. Forest, manufacturing of wood, The cleanest air in the world and purest Balanced growth requires skilled workforce and strong education, research and innovation infrastructure. Mika Riipi paper & paper products: 1300 M€ Tourism: Tourism: 2,9 million registered overnight water in Europe stays, international tourism growth rate 22% County Governor Total tourism demand 1000 M€ 3. Regional ecosystem as a base for internationalisation. Public authorities and development organisations (2016-2017). Compared to + 17% in Finland 5 airports and year-round open ports 4 Agrofood production: 300 M€ ensure the conditions for success. Strong region, versatile utilisation of stakeholders´ expertise and effective 5 allocation of human resources make Lapland powerful and well-known actor in international collaboration. EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS POHJOIS-POHJANMAA OULU REGION ERDF boosted metal and mechanical engineering industry

Metal and mechanical engineering industry is one of the focus areas of the Oulu Region smart specialization strategy.

he region is well known of its top level knowledge of the advanced steels and has great OuluHealth potential for new knowledge- of-steel-based business. Local metal industry and University – Systems and know-how integration Tof Oulu (UO) and Oulu University of Applied Sciences have a strong, decade’s long ith digitalisation, companies, such as Tieto, to improve research history. Centre for advanced steel a sizeable amount the healthcare of the future. research (CASR), which is part of UO, is of patient data is BusinessOulu’s Life Science Key especially focused on steel research in entered into various Accounts Director Heidi Tikanmäki cooperation with the Northern Finland digital patient says that the OuluHealth ecosystem steel industry. data management is much more than just a platform for The Future Manufacturing Techno- Wsystems. The key to successful and testing healthcare products and services. logies (FMT) research group of the high-quality care lies in integration The principal idea is to facilitate open is a part of the Kerttu between systems. OYS TestLab, one of collaboration and to accelerate innovation Saalasti Institute and also a part of the OuluHealth’s test environments, allows by bringing together various partners Centre for Advanced Steels Research system integration to be tested in a able to contribute to the needs of the (CASR). The group’s focus areas include genuine environment with systems such health care sector. multiple points in the manufacturing as Tieto’s Lifecare and Oulu University The ecosystem approach enables the process, from effective utilization of Hospital’s Esko system. combination of expertise from wireless advanced steel grades to cost-efficient OuluHealth ecosystem, part of Oulu information technologies and Life Science production automation and additive Innovation Alliance, is home to three to introduce smart ICT solutions for manufacturing. versatile test environments for testing delivering advanced, personalised, FMT group main office is located processing, material testing and additive the Nivala-Haapajärvi region NIHAK, with businesses, and the group´s yield both health technology and services with connected health service solutions. in Nivala and group is a part of the RDI manufacturing laboratories. ERDF The City of Nivala, and Industrial Park in an advantage to enterprises. Academic the help of professionals. The significant OuluHealth set a goal in 2012 to (Research-Development and Innovation) funding has been a significant role in Nivala are also considerable financiers. research and regional benefit are combined network of health technology companies “The future is in open architecture, and services with authentic users and generate 700 new jobs in health sector community of Nivala ELME Studio. financing infrastructure. FMT research group is specialized in the group’s actions. Annually, FMT are also part of OuluHealth. open interfaces and in selecting the best in modular environments. companies over five years. The target ELME Studio is a production studio The group is funded solely with in utilizing environments outside the cooperates with about 50 enterprises, OuluHealth ecosystem is inter- solution providers for different needs At OYS TestLab, Tieto Healthcare was met in just four years. Additionally, organized by Industrial Park of Nivala, project funding. The most important main campus area in scientific research. most of them are SME sized like Miilux nationally recognised for its ability to instead of opting for a single provider has participated in testing the integration in the Oulu region, export turnover for comprised of ELME Center and the metal financiers include European Union (ERDF), FMT represents the highest level of Oy, Randax Oy, NtCAB Oy, Champion produce innovative solutions to global for all of them”, Alaniska says. of several patient data management Life Science companies grew by 41% training factory of Nivala Vocational The Council of Oulu Region and Tekes. understanding within its own area of Door Oy, KoneStar Oy, Vuolux Oy and HT healthcare challenges. Patient data OYS TestLab, a test environment for systems, e.g. a testing version of OYS’s in five years and overall turnover was College of The Federation of Education Since 2004, FMT has released over 16 expertise in the University of Oulu and Laser Oy. There is also cooperation with management systems’ integration with specialised healthcare products embedded proprietary patient data system, Esko, 640 MEUR. Obviously, Oulu’s health in Jokilaaksot (JEDU). Nivala up-to- publicly-funded projects, and nearly as is an active member of the international large companies like SSAB, Outokumpu, one another will surely be a global at Oulu University Hospital (OYS), is one and Tieto’s Lifecare, with promising ecosystem is doing something right then. date RDI infrastructure includes unique many businesses commissioned research science community. The keystone of the Wärtsilä, Valmet and Nokia. challenge for healthcare, according to of OuluHealth’s test environments that results. OYS TestLab enables such testing fast steel heat treatment pilot line, laser projects. In the Oulu Southern area, FMT operation is the close cooperation Tieto Healthcare’s Kimmo Alaniska. allow the testing of healthcare products with actual hospital staff, who work with Pudasjärvi – the capital of log Ten years of Smart Specialization with PrintoCent

rintoCent provides a world trials. Application focus areas range class design, development and from rapid disposable diagnostics, PrintoCent manufacturing environment smart flexible lighting and wearables • Pilot scale P for Printed Intelligence with to Internet-of-Things with sensors and manufacturing trials WE CARE, DEVELOP AND REALIZE. a special focus on Roll-to-Roll (R2R) energy harvesting. The multitude of • Factory planning and hybrid manufacturing and optical possibilities offer great opportunities and construction, THE POPULATION OF NORTHERN OSTROBOTHNIA measurements for quality assurance. to new products and to disrupt existing machinery selection is the PrintoCent creates novel components, value chains in all industries. youngest in Finland. We are the Province of Youth • Product technical products and solutions enabled by printed PrintoCent has wide global reach and we invest in knowledge to make a better future. design and device intelligence technologies and combine with its international member companies integration them with other rising technologies such and partners. In Oulu region more than ALONG WITH OUR EXCELLENCE in information technology, • Production as 3D printing and textile manufacturing. 300 experts are available in research our digital ecosystem has taken over the area, for ramp-up support In PrintoCent, companies get an and in industry. The funding to start- example, in applications for health and banking • Quality and easy access to new business development up companies has exceeded 40 M€ and services. We live in the heart of the highways of performance audits and pilot manufacturing resources for the turnover of companies in the field information, both in terms of data security and the introduction of printed intelligence is over 25 M€. intelligent transport systems. components, systems and products, from pilot production to early market he town of Pudasjärvi is and people in Pudasjärvi had new techniques are developed WE ARE RESPONSIBLE for almost half of the Finnish located in the northern gained experience in building by people. As a material, solid wind power production and the plans multiply the Focus areas of the Oulu Region´s smart specialisation: part of Oulu region. The from log. Hence, they had the wood binds carbon dioxide about present. Investments for bioenergy are supported by ICT and software, industry (metal and T sparsely populated town courage to build the first public twice its weight for centuries. the increasing growth of the forests. We are on our Population: 411 856 Private services: refinement of timber raw material), is sheltered by large pine forests, log building of its scale. After More energy is created by the road to genuine low-carbon economy. In the future, 2 Population density: 11,2 per km Wholesale and retail trade, repair of cleantech, healthcare and wellness providing material from near-by that, it took only a short period side streams of log production steel is made without carbon emissions. As a material, motor vehicles and bicycles 15 545 jobs technology 2 to the local timber industry. In of time and the town decided than is used in the process. it will be light and more durable to meet the demands Total area 39 182 km , Administrative and support services from which: 10 010 jobs Key players in smart specialisation: this town of 8500 people, they that the primary choice for the Wood is renewable, durable and of heavy structures. The bridges will not collapse, Lakes / rivers 2 370 km2 University of Oulu, VTT, Oulu University of have built something special, construction material of new recyclable, thus choosing log and the ships will travel safely in ice. For this, our FACTS OF 2 Forest 25 316 km Number of enterprices: 21 005 Applied Sciences, Oulu Innovation Alliance, the world’s biggest public log public buildings would be log as a building material can be companies and researchers are working together. Cultivated area 2 374 km2 Natural Resources Institute Finland, OULU Exports % relative for the rest OuluHealth buildings. also in the future. The results considered as a pro-climate act. Main industries: of the country 8,1 % The world’s biggest log- are the world’s biggest school The air inside the building has WELCOME TO THE NEW WINDS! Metal industry 7221 M€ Specific information from the region: constructed kindergarten was campus, children’s day care a gentle scent of wood and pine GDP per capita: 30 780 Young population, high level of know-how REGION ICT 3008 M€ opened in 2013. Modern log was centre and assisted living home needles. Wooden surfaces also Pauli Harju Construction 2995 M€ R&D expenditure as % of GDP in information technology, versatility of 5,2 %, the largest share in Finland the business sector, biggest wind power chosen as a material, because it for the elderly, all built from log. provide excellent acoustics in Region Mayor 6 producer in the country is proven healthy, pleasant and In log building, the nature the class rooms. 7 environmentally friendly material, provides the material and the EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS

KAINUU collaboration between research units and companies. If realized, the KaiCell Fibers’ biorefinery in will produce chemical pulp, from which nearly a quarter will be

used for further processing. Ltd. Force Critical Photo: KaiCell Fibers’ aim is to sell market pulp for the paper, tissue and cardboard industry, but the company is also looking Some Serious into the future and developing New Faces of ecological textile fiber Arbron™ Gaming Development! as their downstream product. In addition to the main products, Wood Industry the company sells by-products ames are here to Gaming cluster has also been to partners who develop bio stay, and not only developed with Kavio Cluster Tuupala wooden school in . Photo: Martti Huusko | Huzza products at the Paltamo for recreation. The programme, taking gaming mill site in the upcoming G purpose of gaming companies further for example Smart Specialisation ood sector has The St1 bioethanol factory is BioFutureFactory™. products can as well be to by marketing, investment always been a one example of cluster-based At Kantola Industrial Estate educate, to enhance business, meetings, boot camps and major factor in development, supported by the and Woodpolis in Kuhmo, or to increase people’s well-being. incubator programme. Kainuu W Kainuu regional RIS3, where wood industry diverse group of woodworking If you already didn’t know it, the is nowadays also the home for Choices of Kainuu economy, having gone through and companies from energy companies is serving the needs gaming ecosystem in the small Nordic eSports Academy summer a big makeover in the past sector (Kajaaniwood sawmill of construction industry and and remote region of Kainuu is school and tournament. KAMK years. New technologies and and St1 etc.) are formulating the experts are promoting wood a vibrant and rapidly growing expertise with serious games, digitalisation allow new operating a new kind of a business industry entrepreneurship and sector, already recruiting skilled virtual reality and augmented Region models and new services and ecosystem, where also developing innovations in the labour force abroad but also reality applications is utilised 2018-2021 products for the traditional research units have potential field of wood construction. At utilising experts provided by for regional RDI. industry. for RDI co-operation. The Kantola area, production, RDI, a local educational institution! There are several gaming Renforsin Ranta Business production is based on local education and innovation go Kajaani University of Applied studios in Kajaani growing with Park in Kajaani, where the side-flow materials, supporting hand in hand. The advantages Sciences has been offering Game speed. For example, Critical Force – The most versatile holiday destination all year around. Photo: Summer Scenery | Vuokatti Photobank UPM paper mill used to be circular economy and creating of using timber in construction Development studies for years. has partnered with South Korean located before the decision added value to the region are recognised more and more First in Europe, KAMK offers also video game development and The Kainuu region has a population of some 75,000 the fun of being together, playing sports TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY INNOVATIONS: to shut it down in 2008, by localisation and energy and many bigger construction a chance to study a Bachelor’s publishing conglomerate NHN people living in an area almost comparable to the size and wanting to experience unforgettable 1. Measurement technology today hosts a variety of efficient transportation. projects, such as the new Degree in eSports Business. Entertainment and plans to boost experiences. 2. Games & simulators companies, some of those Also a new professorship hospital in Kajaani by Kainua Students can easily start working their growth even further with of Belgium. With its landscape dominated by hills and The abundance of natural resources in growth industries like related alliance, have a high utilisation and testing their ideas during the eSports scene. Another strong 3. Metal industry innovations and research group forests, extensive nature reserves, abundant lakes and and the pure nature of Kainuu create an forest bioeconomy and to modern bio refining has of wood material these days. the studies in Kajak Games growth and export company in excellent framework for business growth. data centre ecosystems. been established to Oulu The main material of brand Cooperative. To take the ideas the region is CSE Entertainment, rivers and a wide range of opportunities for culture and Kainuu has a high level of know-how BIO ECONOMY & MINING INNOVATIONS: Remarkable investments are University, located in new Tuupala wooden school into the next level, Northern Game focusing on world class virtual sports make Kainuu an attractive place of residence in the fields of ICT, metal industry, bio- 1. Process and environmental made related to mechanical unit of Kajaani University in Kuhmo is Cross Laminated Summit has been organised since reality and interactive products economy, tourism, well-being, physical monitoring of industry wood processing, and the Consortium, to support the Timber (CLT). 2012 to connect with investors and exergaming, with a goal and a tourist destination. exercise and top-level sport, but also in forest bioeconomy business positive development. RDI and publishers and to exchange to develop the best exergaming 2. Forest & blue bio economy & food the fields of gaming, eSport, data centres ecosystem is developed. activities are implemented in ideas on the game development. products in the world. otable travel areas in Portti in are remarkable and education developing for example Kainuu are Kajaani with destinations for visitors interested in applications of virtual and augmented HEALTH & WELBEING INNOVATIONS its rich cultural life, and the military history. reality (VR and AR). 1. Activity tourism the outdoor and sports The Friendship Nature Reserve By developing smart specialisation 2. Health, physical training and sports activity areas of Vuokatti is the first set of twin parks operating the Kainuu region aims at bringing State of the Art and Paljakka-Ukkohalla. across the Finnish-Russian border and investments, technology, enterprises NLake Oulujärvi offers many possibilities providing nature adventures and hiking and know-how (especially companies CROSS-CUTTING THEMES ON ALL Sports Cluster for boating and sailing. The Manamansalo opportunities. On the Russian side of the and labour with high level of know- RIS3 PRIORITIES region in Oulujärvi has a five-star camping border, the Friendship Nature Reserve how) to the region and adding value These cross cutting themes are pursued site, recreational fishing and hiking areas. includes Kostomuksha Strict Nature and volume to exports. The approach of throughout all the chosen fields: uokatti area in Kainuu is one of the snowiest Reserve, and on the Finnish side the Kainuu Smart Specialisation strategy is a hotspot for sports DURING THE LAST TEN YEARS, industrial transition 1. Developing Key Enabling regions in Finland. The Wild Taiga areas Friendship Park that comprises five emphasizes high level of know-how, as know-how in Kainuu. has swept Kainuu. As traditional business fields Suomussalmi and Kuhmo with their separate areas located in the city of Kuhmo well as research and innovations and Technologies (KETs) V Sotkamo Sports High have given way to new and innovative ones, Kainuu nature, culture and wild animals are and the municipality of Suomussalmi. the supporting educational activities. 2. Utilisation of robotics, automation, School together with Vuokatti- region has been able to turn the structural change excellent travel destinations for wildlife Kuhmo Chamber Music, found in The spearhead fields are developed data centres, data analysis, artificial Ruka Sports Academy offers an to a positive trend. The unemployment rate has enthusiasts. Various entrepreneurs in 1970, is a world class chamber music as an entity covering everything from the intelligence & virtual reality Photo: Akke Virtanen excellent possibility to combine lately fallen more quickly than in any other parts the area offer unique experiences in the festival held every July for two weeks basic know-how needed to excellence and 3. New solutions and applications sports and studying, providing of Finland. The added value, turnover and amount wild, for example bear watching and in Kuhmo. Kuhmo Chamber Music also the infrastructure related to activities. young athletes with good skills in of employees of Kainuu businesses have developed of circular economy Real Measures photography trips. offers music courses, chamber music The key players of the different fields both education and life. University in a positive way. 4. Innovations in resource efficiency, National park Hossa was established workshops and master classes taught support each other well in implementation The key player of measurement technology in Kainuu, of Jyväskylä, Faculty of Sport in 2017 in celebration of the 100th by the festival artists. of Kainuu RIS3 in Quadruple Helix decarbonisation and climate change and Health Sciences in Vuokatti THERE ARE SEVERAL significant opportunities for anniversary of Finland’s independence. Municipality of is cooperation (Business, Research & mitigation & adaptation CEMIS (Centre for Measurement and Information offers further education focusing growth and export in Kainuu. Several of those are Hossa is an intriguing mixture of famous for the Swamp Soccer World Education, Public administration, Civil Systems), specialises in research and training in the field on sports technology. in the field of mining: Sotkamo Silver, Terrafame’s wilderness and culture that reflects Championships organized since 1998. Society/Users). of measurement and information systems. The Olympic Training production of battery grade chemicals and recovery a borderland’s mindset. The Winter Swamp Soccer is suitable for all who enjoy Centre offers top training all of natural uranium as well as the expansion plans War Museum in Kuhmo and Raatteen year round and Vuokatti Sport of Mondo Minerals production. The future of forest heir focus is to develop universities of applied sciences. Resort offers quality services for bio economy looks bright in the light of Kuhmo CLT measurement and Their services include research active holiday makers, redefining and wood element factories’ production amounts, information system and development services, an active holiday. as well as the KaiCell Fibers biorefinery planned Number of incoming Population: 73959 inhabitants GDP: 27160 eur per inhabitant (2016) competence in nationally analysis and testing services, This entity in Vuokatti is to Paltamo. The growth potential for international Population density: 4 inhabitants tourists: 249 795 T 2 significant application areas device development services as recognised also on international per km Number of overnights: The happiest people of Finland live tourism is undeniable and foreign investments 744 367 in Kainuu: over 52% of the inhabitants feel such as the bio economy, the well as business development level. The latest news are that are realising. As we speak, the Kainuu gaming 2 Total area: 22688 km , of which: themselves happy, which is more than the mining industry, sports and well- services. Vuokatti Sport and Sports companies are heading abroad with force. FACTS OF Lakes and rivers cover 11% Number of summer : average rate in Finland. being, and game and simulator CEMIS as an organisation Ministry of the People’s Republic 12 670 of the total surface technology. is a contract-based joint centre of China have signed a major 1+3 KAINUU PROVIDES an outstanding environment for Forest cover 72% of the total Amount of renewable energy of the total CEMIS offers a wide array of of the Universities of Oulu and year contract on permanently KAINUU surfare, 81% of the land area Number of enterprises: 4109 energy consumption is 65 %. living, working life and businesses! services to research institutions, Jyväskylä, Kajaani University of bringing up to 150 Chinese winter REGION Most important industries: Technology industry covers more The national epic was created as well as companies, and carries Applied Sciences, VTT Technical sports athletes to Vuokatti to Pentti Malinen Bio economy, Tourism, Technology than 50 % of the total export in in Kainuu. out research and development Research Centre of Finland Ltd. practice. Region Mayor industry, Mining the region. 8 projects with companies, and CSC - IT Centre for Science 9 universities, research centres and Ltd.

EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS CENTRAL OSTROBOTHNIA Production of novel battery chemicals and precursors for industrial use as a part of lithium value chain

okkola Industrial IN THE 21ST CENTURY, Central Ostrobothnia has been Park (KIP) includes successfully compared to other regions in Finland. the largest cluster of The versatile, export-oriented economic structure K inorganic chemistry has increased employment and unemployment in the . In KIP has remained below the national average. area several different metals and chemicals are already THE LARGE-SCALE INDUSTRY operating on the coast being prepared by utilizing of Kokkola, has invested in new prosesses and Collaboration hydrometallurgical unit processes, production lines in recent years. Kokkola port such as dissolution of metal is the third largest general port in Finland and ore concentrates, purification the number one port for the minerals industry. of solutions and chemical It is also a significant operator in the Russian precipitation. Management of transit traffic. is power these core processes enables the production and upgrading CENTRAL OSTROBOTHNIA can be called a Biovalley of current high-tech chemicals region which means the area has strong industrial The collaboration at Biovalley benefits in the area. profile combined with vital primary production The research aims at in agriculture and forestry. Biovalley activities producing new information on include chemistry and bioeconomy research, the entire Central Ostrobothnian region the preparation and thermal education and business hub. stability of lithium ion battery chemicals (electrode materials). THE SIGNIFICANCE of Central Ostrobothnia is a Novel Li-ion battery chemicals greater than its size. The Central Ostrobohnian tailored for full-scale industrial expertice is always held in high regard when iovalley is an expertise hub the region. Top-level research conditions looking for within Biovalley, whereas the Both Ylä-Kero and Heikkinen highlight production are developed. First challenging changes are on the horizon. that combines the know- are a key factor in bringing about mining company Keliber further developed the interrelationship between the parties aim is in the chemical processing how of several industries internationally competitive research their lithium carbonate production process involved within Biovalley. When know- methods (high-temperature Jyrki Kaiponen found in the area: chemical and product development activities in and examined various possibilities for its how isn’t kept from others, but instead processes, hydrometallurgical Regional Mayor industry, the bioeconomy, Central Ostrobothnia,” says Kokkola productization. From the perspective of shared between disciplines, it improves processes) with high yields and and the mineral economy. Industrial Park Environmental Manager the Geological Survey of Finland (GTK), the entire region. purity of Li-ion battery chemicals. BThe new collaboration within Biovalley Virve Heikkinen. the broader research and know-how In addition to innovations and Dissolution as well as chemical contributes to the development of research, Current trends in sustainable available within Biovalley can be used to collaboration, Biovalley also provides precipitation are significant unit economies, innovations, and education. development and the circular economy find new uses for bioeconomy products the concrete benefit of creating new processes in hydrometallurgy and metal based chemicals. Thus treated thermally in a CVD Biovalley has taken major strides since its create completely new kinds of markets that have yet to define a clear purpose, companies and jobs for the region. industry. Industrial chemical it is essential to understand oven. The battery cells prepared inception, and from autumn 2017 onwards, and demand that the region is now better and thereby support the development of “The Agribusiness training in precipitation processes are the phenomena of chemical from the synthetized chemicals CENTRAL the hub will continue on a contractual able to engage in them. It is therefore the circular economy. The collaboration Biovalley is one example where new used for the preparation of new precipitation, the factors affecting will be tested in the battery OSTROBOTHNIA basis, with 23 organisations involved. no wonder that the companies in the helps all parties involved to gain visibility business opportunities can emerge from chemicals, for the purification of dissolution and precipitation testing laboratory. The research Kokkola Chydenius collaboration are more than happy to as well as contributing to society by time to time. Biovalley helps in finding aims not only to increase – BIOVALLEY REGION is acting as the coordinator for the project. be involved. As an example, the Central providing increasingly useful research funding for ideas and in the building of The research will strengthen the competence of the “The cooperation agreement Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest results that can be utilised in decision- new businesses. Combining know-how participating universities and contributes to the vitality of the region. We Owners found the necessary bioeconomy making and resource allocation. within the region accelerates processes the smart spesialization the international networking, Chemistry and bioeconomy research, can be proud, since a similar approach and chemistry talent and skills they were and makes finding necessary contacts but may also enhance the education and business hub. cannot be found anywhere else,” says easier,” says Ylä-Kero. of the area.” business opportunities of Biovalley Coordinator Tiina Ylä-Kero Although Biovalley has achieved the participating industrial WWW.BIOVALLEY.FI from Kokkola University Consortium significant results, there is still a lot for water and wastewater, and for the processes, and the interactions companies. Furthermore, “ Contact person: Tiina Ylä-Kero, Chydenius. room for growth. In the future, Biovalley treatment of process solutions thereof. the research will strengthen In addition to the University is aiming towards global research and e.g. by removal of impurities. Laboratory-scale research the smart spesialization of Biovalley cordinator Kokkola Consortium, the project enjoys the major larger scale collaboration projects. The knowledge of dissolution and development environment the area since there are no University Consortium Chydenius involvement of the Kokkola Industrial “Our goal is to be on the cutting and precipitation is needed is used prior to the pilot-scale corresponding research and Park (KIP), the most important chemical edge in all three fields and to create e.g. to face the new challenges Chemplant reactors. The learning infrastructures in any University of Jyväskylä cluster in Northern Europe. The Industrial even more companies, jobs and exports of circular economy, such as chemicals prepared in the other university in Finland. University of Oulu Park is interested in how Biovalley can within the region. We are aiming for recovery and recycling of metals laboratory will subsequently University of create new enterprises and business internationalisation and to establish Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius opportunities in addition to support our reputation as pioneers,” Ylä-Kero Centria University of Applied Sciences existing companies in the KIP area. says, outlining the future course for Geological Survey of Finland “Biovalley takes an already strong Biovalley. Natural Resources Institute Finland industrial know-how and combines it Federation of Education in Central Ostrobothnia into an entity that provides an excellent Article was originally published Kokkola Industrial Park association framework for industry that is geared in Coastline 2018 – 2019 magazine. to new innovations. A battery research KOSEK, Kokkolanseudun Kehitys Ltd “Biovalley has succeeded in creating fluent communication between the research field and the Regional Council of Central Ostrobothnia laboratory located in Kokkola is a good business world,” say Virve Heikkinen and Tiina Ylä-Kero. Photo: Jan Sandvik. example of the development progress in The Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centre) The Central Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners (MTK) Suomen Turkiseläinten Kasvattajain Liitto ry Population of Central 9% of the population Export comprises 68% Finnish Forest Centre Ostrobothnia is 69 000 is swedish speaking of the value of the GDP ProAgria Central Ostrobothnia Pirityiset ry FACTS OF Total area: 5706 km2 Strong in inorganic chemistry The total budget Town of Kokkola industry, agriculture and of Biovalley related Town of CENTRAL Largest population entrepreneurship RDI projects is sub-region OSTROBOTHNIA cluster is Kokkola 40 million euros region 47 720 80% increase in GDP Ostrobothnia Chamber of Commerce per capita during the The Federation of Finnish Enterprises 21st century 10 11 EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS POHJOIS-SAVO World class Kuopio machine manufacturing Water Alliance in Pohjois-Savo

Machine and equipment manufacturers from northern parts of Pohjois-Savo develop their products and services based on the needs of their clients. Local trust in companies, competitive R&D environments and competitive development funding enable successful growth for enterprises.

ohjois-Savo supports both wanted to grow to become mentors and sparring partners. the world’s leading the leaders of their industries. Today, small and medium- ecosystem for the The companies chose network sized enterprises develop their uopio Science Park is In recent years, the network has P manufacturing of forest cooperation as one of their operations alongside their one of Finland’s most also sparked start-ups for the and mining machinery. The strategies to ensure growth. peers. R&D environments of comprehensive water water field. The network includes annual export value for these Normet started cooperation public organizations have also K expertise centers. It a university, a polytechnic and companies is close to a billion with their subcontractors by participated in the development brings together multidisciplinary two sector research institutes. euros. The growth has been launching a development project projects, offering equipment expertise in product development New, implementation models for Smartly in fueled by broad-minded and with the aim of improving their and expertise that answer the and practice testing for technical supporting product development active cooperation in development. network’s cost efficiency. At the needs of the companies with applications related to water and start-ups are constantly Machine manufacturers Normet same time they outsourced some flexibility. All parties benefit from purification and monitoring, being developed. The experts and Ponsse have both played a of their functions. cooperative development and the water chemistry and microbiology, collaborate actively also with significant role in this. Ponsse wanted their improvement in competitiveness. knowledge on the special fea- na-tional and international The roots of Normet lie subcontractors close to their tures of mining and groundwater networks. Pohjois-Savo in the Itikka farm in , production facilities, so a village of Ponsse produces forest machines as well as on risk management. Water is one of the topics for Photo: Ponsse, Vieremä where Jaakko and Jussi Sarvela their partner enterprises formed for the cut-to-length method. Collaboration with industry smart specialization in Pohjois- developed accessories for tractors around them, which employs and SMEs from different parts Savo. EU Structural Funds has in the 1960’s. The story of Ponsse today over 250 people. The Normet provides advanced of Finland is an essential part made it possible to create an he regional economy of Pohjois- in fish processing. The region has a began in the 1970’s when Einari world’s leading companies, both solutions for selected customer of RDI-activites. The network’s exceptionally versatile set of Photo: Serravicente, Kuopion kaupunki Savo relies on machine high level of nutrition and food safety Vidgren built a forest machine internationally and domestically, processes in underground mining special strength is the ability equipment for the water area. and energy technology, expertise thanks to a strong farming of his own to increase working serve as clients for these partner and tunneling. Both companies to carry out challenging pilot- It will enable a long-term devel- wood processing and the tradition and high quality food products. efficiency. enterprises. are one of the world’s leading scale test runs and product opment of applied research and food industry. Investments Newly increasing areas of business By the beginning of the Normet and Ponsse have manufacturers in their fields. development testing in concrete product development in Kuopio are made to ensure renewal include wellbeing technology, water 21st century, Normet and Ponsse been involved in multiple industrial sites. Pilots have also Science Park. Tof the industries and the expertise and processing and biorefinery. We’re were both highly respected development projects, first www.ponsse.com/fi been conducted abroad in co- availability of an able workforce. taking strong steps to further boost internationally in their fields, but heading them and later on as www.normet.com operation with local partners. Plenty of top-notch international their development. companies in the technology industry are In the development of the wellbeing/ present in the region. These businesses health sector, the emphasis is on the use account for 40% of Pohjois-Savo’s export of technological opportunities, but there Finland’s first European Region activities and 20 % of its employees. are great efforts being made to promote Success stories from Pohjois-Savo in the new service and business models as well. of Gastronomy 2020 machine and metal industry include forest Kuopio Science Park is one of machinery (Ponsse), mining machinery Finland’s most comprehensive water nationally and internationally. (Normet), speciality vehicles (Profile expertise centres. SATOA Kuopio Food Festival has Vehicles), hydraulic pile driving machines The development of the biorefinery been a food tourism product and hydraulic cylinders (Junttan, industry benefits from our region’s since 2016. The food event is Hydroline). existing expertise, namely in pharmacy, based in downtown Kuopio and THE has a saying that roughly Mechanical wood processing is a medical science, pharma development, it immediately found its way to corresponds to the English “come hell or high strong part of our economy thanks to nutritional science, biochemistry, physics people’s hearts. Nowadays, it water”: mennä syteen tai saveen. It means that companies offering sawmill and wood and bioinformatics. attracts up to 20,000 visitors you have to try even if there is a chance of failing. products, as well as pulp- and paper Tourism is promoted in collaboration to sample local food creations. The proverb alludes to coincidences, risk-taking mills. Various global leaders ( with other eastern Finland regions in Regional food and food tourism and, above all, courage. Group, Lunawood, Stora Enso) operate the Lakeland network, where Finland’s interest consumers, which in turn in our county. largest lake area is marketed promotes the food, travel and THE PROVERB INCLUDES the Finnish word savi, Pohjois-Savo is one of Finland’s strongest to international visitors. culture sector businesses in the which means clay in English. As it happens, one regions in milk production and milk nearby regions. Different events of Europe’s most potential innovation hubs is know-how. It’s also an important berry highlight local gastronomical called Savilahti, “Clay Bay”. It is located in the production area, as well as a leading skills and the clean raw materials main city of the Pohjois-Savo region: Kuopio. location in the beverage industry and produced in the region. The successful concept of CURRENTLY, Savilahti is Finland’s most ambitious he Kuopio region was Events in the Kuopio region have the SATOA Food Festival will be urban development object. The objective is to turn awarded the European started to invest in food tourism replicated internationally and it into Europe’s most interesting learning and Region of Gastronomy during the past few years. Food the event has been chosen as innovation environment by 2030. Savilahti will be T (ERG) status for 2020. festivals highlight local expertise one of Finland’s top food tourism constructed into a pleasant and modern district The first ERG recognition and their genuine local image products. of about 35,000 residents, workers and students. Population: 250 000 received in Finland brings with increases the appreciation for the The investments in the Savilahti region have been Total area: 20367 km2 Ten national research and other 26 % of total berry it international visibility for the agriculture that produces clean The independent ICGAT network of calculated to rise up to EUR 1.5 billion by 2030. institutes, eg. Natural Resources production in Finland Kuopio region as well as an raw materials for the region. European regions and researchers Largest city: Kuopio 118 000 influx of tourism, events and The ERG title creates a is behind ERG. ICGAT promotes ACCORDING TO STATISTICS, Finland is world’s fourth Institute Finland, Geological 12 % of total Finnish increased activities for food basis for developing Pohjois- collaboration between food culture, most innovative country. Perhaps we will some FACTS OF Main industry sectors: machine Survey of Finland and Finnish export of mechanical companies. Savo as a food region even tourism, art and urban culture. day rise past Switzerland, the United States and and energy technology, wood Food Safety Authority. wood processing Israel with Pohjois-Savo’s courage and clay. POHJOIS-SAVO processing and food production. Growth of export of University, applied university of manufacturing industry European Region Marko Korhonen science, two vocational colleges in 2006-2017: +24 % of Gastronomy 2020 Region Mayor 12 and emergency services college. 13 EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS NORTH KARELIA Smart Specialisation in North Karelia

Forest bioeconomy knowledge and their application for are conducted in the companies The forest bioeconomy represents the needs of business life, as well of the field. The expertise of the strongest sector for research as including an entrepreneurial business life is complemented by ForestPhotonics 17 | Photo: Tuukka Pakarinen Tuukka | Photo: 17 ForestPhotonics and expertise in North Karelia. angle to the sector’s development the University of Eastern Finland’s Around 600 experts with various work. The forest industry has not natural science departments THE REGION’S AREAS OF EXPERTISE educational backgrounds − from traditionally been a hotbed for (computer science, chemistry, FOR THE FOREST BIOECONOMY: vocational education schools to new entrepreneurial activities, physics and mathematics), the doctoral degree programmes e.g. startups. One reason for this engineering-related educational Forest technology and logging logistics Distributed biorefining Forestry machinery manufacturing, Raw material chains for distributed biorefining, and research institutes − work is that the university does not expertise of Karelia University of utilisation of logging methods and technologies the utilisation of side streams, and the refinement in the region’s forest bioeconomy contain a faculty of engineering Applied Sciences and Vocational technologies and growth of value chains sector. Many strong national and or strong industrial processing- Education & Training Organisation New biobased products Forest information management Biobased, high added value products, Service activities that are based on electronic international actors are involved related expertise. The challenge Riveria, as well as the research materials and production technology forest information and other wide-ranging utilisation in the field, such as the Natural of the forest bioeconomy sector is and testing environments of of databanks Resources Institute Finland (Luke), in creating products and services these fields. North Karelia Multipurpose use of forests Renewable energy production the Finnish Forest Centre, the that contain an exceptionally For technologies and The refinement of the material and immaterial and wood construction value of forests and the matching of their Distributed energy production and hybrid solutions University of Eastern Finland, high level of added value. The materials, the top expertise different forms of use that are based on renewable energy sources, the European Forest Institute mobility and transfer of experts that can be found in the region knowledge environments and demonstration - Renewable Energy Forerunner targets for wood construction (EFI), Karelia University of Applied from research institutes and is exceptional, but achieving Sciences, the Finnish Environment educational organisations to critical mass is something of a Institute and Vocational Education companies should be increased challenge. The region contains THE REGION’S AREAS OF EXPERTISE & Training Organisation Riveria. and used to create a spill over many ICT and technology . Photo: Markku Tano Tano Markku Photo: National Park. Koli FOR TECHNOLOGIES AND MATERIALS: The region contains strong leading effect for the entire industry. companies as well as some spin companies as well as promising off companies from university- North Karelia, the region of forests and thousands of lakes, invests in the welfare of people and the environment. Photonics Machinery and engineering growth companies that focus level research initiatives that have workshop solutions Technologies Scientific research, technological on global export markets. The helped commercialise regional The carbon footprint of North is up to 36% smaller than that of the average Finn. applications as well as commercialised solutions Machinery and engineering design expertise, and materials manufacturing processes and technologies forest bioeconomy sector is expertise. However, when it ICT applications Digital solutions in products, services and Chemistry-related materials expertise strongly collaborative in nature. Technologies and materials comes to volume and mass, he region is a frontrunner to assess the top expertise of different to systematically activate companies to According to Anniina Kontiokorpi, Project processes, game development expertise Scientific research on functional materials The experts of the field are also represent a corporately driven the greatest emphasis is still and biomaterial analytics in the use of renewable and, fields that can be utilised in a more participate in RDI activities and create Manager of the Regional Council of North Precision technique well-networked, both at home entity that focuses on the on more traditional engineering in particular, bioenergy: widespread sense or combined in novel a common goal and operating models Karelia, the environment for bioeconomy Precision work expertise in the manufacture Extractive industry processing expertise and abroad. technology industry. The workshops and metal companies of optical, mechanical and biomedical Analytics and processing expertise that renewable energy accounts ways. It is also essential to focus these that the business sector can commit in North Karelia is excellent. “We have components serve the stone and extractive sector The challenges of the forest technology industry is North that feature strong expertise and for 64% of the total energy assessments on the fields and themes itself to. skilled people and energetic companies, bioeconomy sector include the Karelia’s most important RDI the flexibility for novel initiatives consumption, which is a high that are in global demand, says Regional It is seen crucial for the North Karelia the strategies of different companies transfer of expertise and research sector, as 53 % of all RDI activities as well. Tpercentage even on an international scale. Development Manager Maarit Siitonen that high-quality research activities are uniform and co-operation is well- North Karelia is also a model area in from the Regional Council of North Karelia. and international networks that are working. Ideas and innovations are born energy self-sufficiency: approximately significant for the business sector can when different know-how is combined 62% of the energy used is produced in The core of North Karelia’s be made available for companies as well. and exchanged and people meet”. the region. smart specialisation is The common goal should be a dynamic, The characteristics of the founded The competence-based growth comprised of two essential entrepreneurially-oriented ecosystem ecosystems are e.g. complementary industries of the future, forest bioeconomy that supports growth and new ideas. resources and areas of expertise, and new technologies and materials, have elements: dynamism and rapidly changing business taken off in North Karelia. The region’s 1. New solutions for the GreenHUB, relationships. On a larger scale, North traditional strong fields of business forest bioeconomy Karelian companies may act as a part of NORTH KARELIA – TOWARDS include the forest, metal, extractive and 2. Technologies and materials Open Innovation Ecosystem national and global ecosystems that are food industries. North Karelia’s regional as enablers of growth As a first step towards innovation ecosystem not dependent on geographical areas. LOW-CARBON REGION centre Joensuu has many educational GreenHUB was established in North Nevertheless, the region’s stakeholders institutions, such as University of Eastern The implementation of North Karelia’s Karelia. GreenHUB is a community involvement in ecosystems and the creation NORTH KARELIA, the frontrunner in the use of Finland and Karelia University of Applies smart specialisation aims for collaboration of top North Karelian researches and of added value, for example through the renewable energy, has ambitious goals for the Sciences. Number of students in the and concrete activities between the experts in the field of bioeconomy. It is knowledge of forest bioeconomy, may energy and climate sectors. The objective is to region totals up to 20 000. region’s business sector and public an innovative tool, where companies, open up new networks and science to stop using fossil oil in energy production by 2020 actors, through which the businesses research institutes, development & business opportunities. and in traffic by 2030, increase the share of North Karelia’s in the region will have the opportunity educational organisations interact renewable energy from 64% (year 2016) to 100%, to develop themselves and utilise the within a common network to create and to achieve 80% reduction in greenhouse gas smart specialisation region’s expertise and networks to their new expertise and innovations. It aims emissions on a regional level. Smart specialisation is aims for economic fullest extent. The most essential goals to provide the expertise of numerous change by combining the expertise of the include the development of sales and forest bioeconomy experts for the needs Arbonaut: efficient timberland management. COMPETENCE-BASED GROWTH industries of North region’s business and research sectors exports in key areas, as well as the of business life to boost the bioeconomy Today’s global information Karelia, forest bioeconomy and new technologies that will help improve the region’s success creation of new, expertise-based business of the region. Technology Innovator sharing climate provides great and materials, are part of the solution for reaching factors. Instead of solely focusing on activities. These measures must be able opportunities for companies the demanding objectives. The forest bioeconomy strong individual fields, it is essential willing to embrace cooperation represents the strongest sector for research A leader in research and innovation, Arbonaut and true scientific advancement. and expertise – including many national and developed the first forest inventory tools in the world Arbonaut partners with large international actors. Technologies and materials that detect individual trees from aerial and satellite commercial forestry operations, represent a corporately driven entity that focuses and with world-leading technology on the technology industry. This area of expertise Population: 164 000 Headquarter of the European Finnish National landscape Koli is imagery in 1998. partners. While the company now includes machinery and engineering, photonics Forest Institute is situated in the highest point of Southern and has global reach, Arbonaut is and ICT applications. Main export industry sectors: Joensuu (347 m) Forest 45 %, metal 37 % rbonaut is currently one for all aspects of timber resource based in North Karelia, Finland. and mining industry 2 % (2017) Total area 21,585 km2 North Karelia shares a 302 km of the few companies data collection, analysis, and ”There is no other place on WE WELCOME YOU to cooperate with us! Visit our FACTS OF (almost the same as Slovenia) stretch of frontier with in the world that can management. earth with more forest know- beautiful region of forest and lakes, the place Regional centre Joensuu is Aprovide a full-service how. The region has world-class where East and West meet and Karelian culture NORTH a university city (University of Forests cover 70 % of the surface Distance to is 450 km system covering every aspect of Global Relationships research innovative industrial flourishes. Eastern Finland, Karelia forest information collection and Today, as a result of the company’s customers and partners, and The region has 2,200 lakes of which is covered e.g with one KARELIA University of Applied Sciences) data management. From sky to innovations, many of the world’s excellent forest education Risto Poutiainen which is Finland’s fourth hour flight or five hours by car screen, Arbonaut has achieved largest timber owners rely on with global recruitment.” says Region Mayor largest lake 14 information integration and Arbonaut’s ArboLiDAR remote Tuomo Kauranne, the CEO of 15 accessibility by designing tools sensing technology for effective, the Arbonaut. EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS SOUTH SAVO SAIMAA Brand of Saimaa REGION Research and piloting environment for bioeconomy innovations Designation of Origin (D.O.) is an internationally renowned brand. The regional council of South Savo was the first in Finland who began to grant D.O. labels. The label is called Designation of Origin Saimaa.

esignation of Origin for the products and distinguishes Saimaa is Finland´s them from competitors. D.O. first proprietary label. Saimaa sign-labeled products he FiberLaboratory is that are tailored to customer THE MAIN FOCUSES D The slogan of the label are both gastronomically and South-Eastern Finland requirements. These include IN COOPERATION WITH is: Designation of Origin Saimaa ethically a very good choice. University of Applied expert services, as well as test- COMPANIES ARE: – 100% good from Lake Saimaa Restaurants may use the D.O. Sciences bio product run and laboratory services. area. The word `good` means Saimaa label in individual doses T Technology development of big technology innovation center The laboratory supports forest taste and high quality. It has or create menus around the scale industrial forest base bio located in . The technology-business ecosystem also a positive impact for the D.O. Saimaa –menus theme. Purely Best refinery processes laboratory develops technology development and leading bio- environment, for the food culture It is also possible to apply the and innovations for the processing economy projects, further, Research activities focusing and the vitality of the region D.O.Saimaa label for design and forestry industry, as well boosts the Finnish economy on rapid mixing phenomena and society. and art crafts products. – Strengths of South Savo as for chemical, measurement, by increasing export income. boosting the efficiency of Product-specific the The interest of food products industrial processes control and automation The FiberLaboratory would not D.O. Saimaa label has been and the manufacturing of food system manufacturers. The have seen the light of day without Commercialization of carbon dioxide given to 12 producers during is growing constantly. Reliable FiberLaboratory conducts the support of the European capture process patented by Xamk the first year when using the information of the origin of food Strategic choices of the region are research and development of Structural Funds. in cooperation with a start-up new brand. Labelled products and the methods of manufacturing WATER, FOREST and FOOD. an international standard and Cooperation network company in Savonlinna are for example spices, wines, is increasingly important factor trains process engineers. includes about 100 companies New measurement applications berries, different kind of meat when making purchasing master of Northern conditions. FiberLaboratory’s goal is from all over Finland and other for bio refinery processes; NMR, and fish- products, sweets, decision. D.O. Saimaa label tells that results and new solutions countries. imaging, refractive index etc. carrots and cereal products. to the consumer that the product underpin the competitiveness The FiberLaboratory has In Lake Saimaa region there is produced environmentally Development work of of companies in the South fiber, water, wastewater and production and applications are a large number of small friendly in Lake Saimaa area. hese smart choices of the Why – FOREST? South Savo has future focus will concentrate on bioenergy, Digital solutions are vital element of Savo region as well as in whole sludge laboratories, piloting of Micro Crystallized Cellulose. producers and food processing The label also tells us that the region are based on natural the biggest forest resources in Finland. biofuels and –chemicals and value- strategic choices, for example in food Finland and also globally. The equipment up to production scale companies. They have developed entire production chain is short strengths and opportunities, Moreover, the forest is growing faster added products. sector traceability of products and safety FiberLaboratory offers an and portable piloting equipment Practical equipment testing for years high-quality products. and traceable. furthermore, combining than in any other region in Finland. of food supply chain. extensive range of services for mill tests. The D.O.Saimaa label adds value R&D skills and innovative Sustainability and innovative solutions Why – FOOD? South Savo’s agriculture entrepreneurs and firms. are the core of forest utilization. Forest and food industry are based on premium What smart specialization TEU structural funds and other financial cluster’s added value is based on low quality and local organic food production. instruments strengthen the region’s carbon solutions and innovations. In the Our principle is to secure pure agricultural means for South Savo region? operation of farmers, researchers resource base and play significant role future, wood is still used as material for raw materials and safety of food chain from All the core actors of the region including Organic quality products and other stakeholders in the in region’s smart specialization. All these paper, pulp and saw-material. However, cultivated land all the way to consumers. research institutes, cities, municipalities food chain. This co-operation three choices create fundamental base and citizens have molded the shared from fields and forests has been supported in many for region’s bio-economy and low-carbon vision of South Savo’s smart specialization ways by numerous EU-funded ecosystem. The aim is to create new jobs, strategy. The quadruple helix approach projects. competitiveness and solutions for worldwide was the key method through the process The market size for problems concerning water, forest and The region’s smart specialization and further implementation. The region’s organic foods is steadily food questions. strategy goal is to achieve green smart specialization strategy goal is to increasing globally. This growing achieve green and sustainable growth in consumption of organics offers SOUTH SAVO REGION has specialized for Wood, Water Why – WATER? Clean water is one and sustainable growth in all sectors! all sectors! All the elements to succeed are new business opportunities for and Food: Forest biomass based new products and of the most important questions of in our own hands but it requires global rural entrepreneurs, restaurants production processes, Clean water and environmental worldwide future. We have innovative All the elements to succeed are in networks, cooperation, investment and and for the Finnish companies safety technologies and Organic products and food and smart solutions for water treatment “ our own hands but it requires global risk taking. exporting organic products. safety innovations. Many methods for material that can be used for everyday life solutions Boreal non-wood forest products and environmental technologies, developed in our and industrial processes. Laboratory networks, cooperation, investment Therefore, South Savo’s future such as wild berries, mushrooms, region, are used around the world. of green chemistry located in South vision is purely best! tree sap waters, resin and wild Savo research and develop waste water and risk taking. herbs are raw materials gaining SOUTH SAVO has opportunities both entrepreneurs solutions and clean water analytics that more interest in the global food and workers. Reasonable prices, qualified employees can be commercialized by companies. and cosmetic market. The organic and good transport links to elsewhere in Finland label is more often needed for and St Petersburg are platforms of healthy growth international marketing to assure for a business. the purity of the product. Finnish Organic Research Institute is THE ECO-REGION South Savo is the leading organic The southernmost region in East Finland, Main industries: Consists of fourteen municipalities. promoting the utilization of producer In Finland. For a gourmet enthusiast South just a couple of hours drive from the Finnish Manufacturing of wood 521 M€ Largest cities are Mikkeli (54 517), capital Helsinki and around four hours by Primary production 206 M€ Pieksämäki (18 475) and Savonlinna organic certification scheme Savo provides fresh, local and organic ingredients train from Manufacturing of machinery 185 M€ (35 242) of forest in South Savo region. and guarantee a unique cuisine experience. Service Industry 1557 M€ innish Organic Re- the Finnish food chain by the The development of more efficient Population approximately 150,000, The population of South Savo nearly search Institute is means of research, science supply-chain of organic non- THE NATIONAL PARKS AND SAIMAA ringed seal are FACTS OF density 10,3 people per km² Several RDI and education institutes doubles every summer when summer operating in the South Savo area: residents and vacationers come to the a multidisciplinary communication, education and wood products and development worth while to see for every nature lover. For the Total area around 19,000 km², of which: , Diaconia, University of Applied region. research and expert development projects. of added value organic products culture lovers region provides very special culture SOUTH Lakes and rivers 4873 km² F Sciences, University of Technology, network operating under the South Savo region has a to export market are needed. events. Forest 14 257 km² Well-known for the lake Saimaa Natural Resources Institute Finland, South-Eastern Natural Resources Institute longtime tradition in organic EU-funding is supporting the Cultivated area 60 000 ha Finland University of Applied Sciences, South Savo (the fourth largest lake in Europe), with its SAVO Finland and the University of production. Nowadays it is the communication of these new WARMLY WELCOME TO SOUTH SAVO. Vocational College Esedu, , countless islands, vendace and rare species Number of companies: 9879 Vocational College Samiedu, Development of Saimaa ringed seal. The region has over Helsinki. The coordination unit main production area for organic possibilities to diversify the forest GDP 4414 M€ Companies owned by cities and municipalities 30,000 kilometres of shoreline, and the lake of the Institute is located in carrots, onions and cabbages product portfolio of the region Pentti Mäkinen Saimaa is connected to the by Region’s export 398 M€ and several other vocational colleges Mikkeli, South Savo. Institute in Finland. This situation has by utilizing organic certification Region Mayor Saimaa Channel. 16 (0,7 % of the national export) promotes organic food production been reached by the committed scheme. 17 and consumption throughout development work and co- EAST & NORTH FINLAND: SMART SPECIALISATION NEWS Regional contacts

Sustainable utilisation of natural resources and “ smart ICT development create added value for ARCTIC OCEAN LAPLAND the ECONOMIC GROWTH Kristiina Jokelainen Director of International relations and SOCIAL WELLBEING and S3 implementation in the ENF region. [email protected] +358 40 501 9856 arcticsmartness.eu

OULU REGION ARENTS Tiina Rajala Development Director SEA [email protected] +358 40 685 4033 www.pohjois-pohjanmaa.fi MRMANS

KAINUU Katja Sukuvaara Regional Development Manager [email protected] +358 44 4100 732 www.kainuunliitto.fi EAST NORWEIAN & NORTH SEA FINLAND CENTRAL OSTROBOTHNIA Anne Sormunen SWEEN Manager of International Affairs +358 40 684 5997 [email protected] www.keski-pohjanmaa.fi

POHJOIS-SAVO RSSIA Soile Juuti INLAN Manager in EU and National Programs NORWA +358 44 714 2637 [email protected] ELSINI www.pohjois-savo.fi ST PETERSR OSLO STOCOLM

NORTH KARELIA Pia Pitkänen TALLINN Regional Development Expert [email protected] +358 40 559 2210 ALTIC www.pohjois-karjala.fi SEA NORT RIA SOUTH SAVO SEA COPENAEN Tomi Heimonen Manager, Business and Innovation MOSCOW +358 50 522 8587 [email protected] www.esavo.fi ILNIS AMSTERAM ERLIN MINS WARSAW

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