Publication: Small enterprises play a strong role in the green transition and regional security of supply in Upper and Eastern Kainuu

The legislative guidance for the green transition at both the EU and national levels has set an ambitious target for Finland to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. This brings new opportunities to the Upper and Eastern Kainuu region, but it also requires active participation and commitment.

Small and micro enterprises as builders of the green transition and security of supply

The role of small businesses in the green transition is also outlined in strategic policy documents. For instance, the program of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo’s government views a vibrant rural area as essential to the well-being of Finland as a whole. The inherent strengths and specialized expertise of different regions in Finland must be leveraged to support diversified business operations, investments, industry, and exports. Building a good life and a profitable business in rural areas requires actions based on regional strengths and the needs of the people.

Small and micro enterprises are also essential to Finland’s security of supply. Many micro enterprises operate in sectors critical for resilience, such as energy, logistics, and food. Strengthening the participation opportunities and competencies of these businesses in the green transition is important to allow them to contribute fully to the green transition and secure essential regional functions.

As part of a larger project, this publication provides information for decision-makers, businesses, and other regional development actors who wish to promote the green transition and strengthen resilience in rural areas. The report sees the green transition not only as a challenge but also as a significant opportunity that requires proactive, long-term, and broad-based collaboration among regional stakeholders.

This publication is produced as part of the Upper and Eastern Kainuu green transition competence center project. The project is managed by the Municipality of Hyrynsalmi, with partners including the City of Kuhmo and the municipalities of Puolanka, Ristijärvi, and Suomussalmi. Additional project collaborators include the University of Helsinki (HY), Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT), and the Kerttu Saalasti Institute (KSI) at the University of Oulu. The project is funded by the EU’s Just Transition Fund.

The publication can only be read in Finnish. Ask for more information about the project and publication: Santeri Halonen (santeri.halonen@oulu.fi)

Publication:
Pienten yritysten osallisuus vihreään siirtymään ja alueelliseen huoltovarmuuteen : Tarkastelu Ylä- ja Itä-Kainuun alueella. 
Halonen, Santeri; Simunaniemi, Anna-Mari; Björk, Pauliina; Kotavaara, Ossi (2024-08-26)

Photo: Pedacom / Rodeo