Finland’s Ecosystem

Higher Education Institution

Savonia University of Applied Sciences https://www.savonia.fi/en/homepage/

Savonia University of Applied Sciences (Savonia UAS) is one of Finland’s largest universities of applied sciences, with campuses in Kuopio, Iisalmi, and Varkaus. It offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in fields such as business, engineering, and health care, many of which are available in English. The university emphasizes practical education and research, focusing on areas like bioeconomy and sustainable development. Savonia UAS supports regional development through collaboration with local industries and international partnerships. It has a strong emphasis on research, development, and innovation.

Research Institute

Natural Resources Institute Finland Luke https://www.luke.fi/en

The Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) is a research organization focused on promoting the sustainable use of natural resources. Luke conducts research in areas such as climate-smart carbon cycles, profitable and responsible primary production, adaptive and resilient bioeconomy, and circular bioeconomy. It aims to support the sustainable management and use of natural resources through scientific research and innovation, contributing to both national and international environmental and economic goals. Luke is involved in numerous EU-funded projects and collaborates with various stakeholders to drive sustainable development.

Higher Education Institution

University of Eastern Finland https://www.uef.fi/en

The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) is a multidisciplinary university with campuses in Joensuu and Kuopio. It comprises four faculties: Philosophical Faculty, Faculty of Science, Forestry and Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, and Faculty of Social Sciences and Business Studies. UEF offers a wide range of Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs, many in English, and is known for its high standard of interdisciplinary research, particularly in areas like health, environmental science, and social sciences. The university emphasizes sustainability, international collaboration, and open science.

Higher Education Institution

Sakky https://sakky.fi/en

Savo Consortium for Education (Sakky) is a major provider of upper secondary education in Finland’s North Savo region. It includes Savo Vocational College and Varkaus Upper Secondary School. Sakky offers a variety of educational programs for both young people and adults, including vocational training and apprenticeships. The institution aims to enhance regional well-being and economic vitality through education. It is involved in numerous national and international projects and partnerships, supporting a wide network of collaborations.

Higher Education Institutiona

YSAO https://ysao.fi/?lang=en

Ylä-Savo Vocational College (YSAO) is part of the Ylä-Savo Municipal Federation of Education in Finland. It offers a wide range of vocational education and training programs across various fields, including logistics, natural resources, construction, and technology. YSAO provides both full-time education and adult education options, with a focus on practical skills and workforce readiness. The institution supports regional development through partnerships with local businesses and industries, promoting lifelong learning and professional development.

Public body

Regional Council of Pohjois-Savo https://www.pohjois-savo.fi/en

The Regional Council of Pohjois-Savo is a statutory joint authority in Finland, representing 19 municipalities in the region. It is responsible for regional development, planning, and promoting the interests of its inhabitants, municipalities, and businesses at both national and international levels. The council’s tasks include coordinating regional land use, economic development, and environmental planning, fostering cooperation among municipalities, and managing EU structural fund programs to enhance regional growth and sustainability.

Public body

ELY Center (Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment) https://www.ely-keskus.fi/en/web/ely-en

The Centres for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Centres) are responsible for regional implementation and development tasks of the Finnish central government. There are 15 ELY Centres across Finland, focusing on promoting regional competitiveness, well-being, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation. Their main areas of responsibility include business and industry, labour force and competence, transport and infrastructure, and environment and natural resources. They operate under the Ministry of Employment and the Economy, with tasks also related to other ministries.

Public body

Kuopio City https://www.kuopio.fi/en/frontpage/

Kuopio is a city in Finland, serving as the capital of the North Savo region. It is the eighth largest city in Finland with a population of around 124,000. Kuopio is known for its vibrant cultural scene, diverse educational institutions, and strong emphasis on well-being and quality of life. The city is a hub for healthcare, research, and innovation, particularly in the fields of environmental technology and welfare services. Kuopio is also noted for its scenic natural surroundings and numerous recreational opportunities.

Public body

Iisalmi City https://iisalmi.fi/

Iisalmi City, located in the heart of Finland, is a vibrant municipality renowned for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque surroundings. Nestled amidst pristine lakes and lush forests, Iisalmi offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional Finnish charm. Iisalmi is committed to sustainable development, economic growth, and community welfare. The city administration focuses on transparent governance, active citizen participation, and continuous improvement of public services.

Public body

Varkaus City https://varkaus.fi/en

Varkaus, located in Northern Savonia, Finland, is known for its industrial heritage and scenic lake surroundings. It offers diverse housing, strong educational facilities, and supports local businesses. The city emphasizes sustainable development and community well-being, providing various cultural and recreational activities.

Public body

SavoGrow https://www.savogrow.fi/

SavoGrow is a regional development company based in Finland, focused on fostering economic growth and development within the region. It provides services such as business consulting, support for new business ventures, and development programs for existing businesses. SavoGrow also promotes municipal cooperation, regional marketing, and sustainable development. The organization engages in various projects and initiatives to enhance local industry, agriculture, and tourism.

Public body

Navitas https://navitas.fi/en/home

Navitas is a business service organization based in Varkaus, Finland. It provides a range of services to support local businesses, including business development, networking opportunities, and investment advice. Navitas also helps with the establishment of new enterprises and the growth of existing ones. The organization focuses on fostering economic development in the Varkaus region through collaboration and resource provision.

Public body

Maakotitalous Naiset https://www.maajakotitalousnaiset.fi/en

Maakotitalous Naiset (Rural Women’s Advisory Organization) is a Finnish network promoting sustainable rural living, local food, entrepreneurship, and environmental stewardship. It provides expertise in food, nutrition, and rural development through its regional centers and numerous local associations. The organization focuses on enhancing community vitality, supporting women’s roles, and promoting biodiversity and sustainable practices.

Public body

Pro Agria https://www.proagria.fi/en

Pro Agria is a Finnish expert organization providing services to develop agriculture, forestry, and rural businesses. It offers comprehensive support in business management, financial planning, and production optimization, aiming to enhance profitability and sustainability. Pro Agria engages in various projects focusing on climate-smart farming, sustainable food systems, and knowledge exchange in agriculture. Their mission is to support rural development through expertise and innovative solutions.

Public body

Kuopio Chamber of Commerce https://kuopiochamber.fi/en/

The Kuopio Chamber of Commerce supports businesses in the Kuopio, Varkaus, and Ylä-Savo regions. It offers services in networking, competence development, internationalization, and advocacy. Founded in 1918, the Chamber has over 900 members, including companies, educational institutions, and municipal organizations. It works to enhance regional business infrastructure, industry growth, and skill development through active committee involvement.

NGO

Savo Entrepreneur Federation Savon yrittäjät https://www.yrittajat.fi/en/

Research Institute

VTT https://www.vttresearch.com/en

VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is a leading European research, development, and innovation organization. It focuses on creating sustainable technological solutions and driving systemic changes across various industries. VTT’s expertise spans areas such as smart energy, biotechnology, cybersecurity, and quantum technology. With over 2,300 professionals, VTT collaborates with businesses and public organizations to foster innovation and advance technological development.

Public body

THL (Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare) https://thl.fi/en/main-page

The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) is a research and development institute focused on public health and welfare in Finland. It conducts research, provides expert advice, and develops solutions to improve health and social services. THL’s work covers areas such as infectious diseases, mental health, environmental health, and health promotion. The institute collaborates with national and international partners to enhance well-being and address health challenges.

Research Institute

GTK (Geological Survey
of Finland) https://www.gtk.fi/en/

The Geological Survey of Finland (GTK) is a research organization that provides impartial geological expertise and data. Its focus is on sustainable solutions and supporting decision-making in industry, academia, and society. GTK conducts research in areas like mineral resources, energy, and environmental geology, aiming to accelerate the transition to a sustainable and carbon-neutral world. It offers various services, including data management, mineral processing, and circular economy solutions.

Research Institute

Finnish Meteorological Institute https://en.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi/

The Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI) provides weather forecasts, warnings, and climate information for Finland. It engages in extensive research and offers a variety of services, including marine weather, air quality monitoring, and renewable energy forecasts. FMI aims to improve public safety, environmental protection, and support economic activities through its meteorological and climate expertise.

CEMIS (Centre for Measurement and Information Systems) https://www.cemis.fi/en/

Public body

SITRA https://www.sitra.fi/en/

Sitra, the Finnish Innovation Fund, is an independent public foundation that promotes sustainable well-being and economic growth. It focuses on creating and implementing long-term solutions for societal challenges, particularly in areas like the circular economy, data economy, democracy, and sustainability. Sitra engages in research, development projects, and partnerships to drive innovation and foresight, supporting Finland’s transition towards a fair and sustainable future.

Public body

Business Finland https://www.businessfinland.fi/en/for-finnish-customers/home

Business Finland is a government organization dedicated to innovation funding and the promotion of trade, travel, and investment. It supports Finnish companies in international growth, provides funding for innovative projects, and develops business ecosystems. Additionally, Business Finland enhances the global competitiveness of Finnish industries by fostering partnerships and creating opportunities for collaboration.

Public body

Suomen ympäristökeskus (Finnish Environment Institute) https://www.syke.fi/en-US

The Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) is a research institute and center of expertise focused on providing knowledge and solutions for sustainable development. SYKE conducts environmental research, monitors environmental conditions, and develops new methods and tools to support environmental protection and policy. It collaborates internationally and nationally to address issues like climate change, biodiversity, and the circular economy.

Public body

KYS (Kuopio University Hospital) https://pshyvinvointialue.fi/web/en/kuopio-university-hospital

Kuopio University Hospital (KUH) provides specialized healthcare services to the residents of the Wellbeing Services County of North Savo and the wider Eastern Finland area, including South Savo, Central Finland, and North Karelia. It includes Kuopio University Hospital, Iisalmi Hospital, and Varkaus Hospital. KUH offers a wide range of medical services and is a key institution for both clinical research and medical education in the region.

Public body

P-S Hyvinvointialue (The wellbeing services county of North Savo) https://pshyvinvointialue.fi/web/en

The Wellbeing Services County of North Savo (P-S Hyvinvointialue) provides comprehensive health and social services to residents in North Savo, Finland. It encompasses healthcare facilities including Kuopio University Hospital, and offers a range of services from emergency care to mental health support, elderly care, and family services. The organization focuses on ensuring the well-being of the community through accessible and high-quality care.

Public body

Metsä keskus (Finnish Forest Centre) https://www.metsakeskus.fi/en

The Finnish Forest Centre is a state-funded organization that promotes sustainable forestry and related livelihoods across Finland. It provides advisory services to landowners on forest management, collects and shares comprehensive forest data, and enforces forestry legislation. The Centre aims to enhance the benefits derived from forests while ensuring their ecological health and sustainability.

Public body

Pelastuskeskus (Finnish Rescue Center) https://www.pelastuskeskus.fi/

The Finnish Rescue Center (Pelastuskeskus) is a specialized company in the communications and alarm industry. Located in Kangasala, it offers a wide range of products and services including alarm systems, communication devices, and measurement equipment. The center also provides maintenance, training, and installation services for its products. It supports various authorities and organizations with over 30 years of expertise.

Public body

Pelastuslaitos https://www.pelastuslaitokset.fi/

The Finnish Rescue Services (Pelastuslaitos) is a network of 21 regional rescue services across Finland. It aims to improve public safety through efficient and high-quality rescue operations, fire prevention, and emergency medical services. The network promotes collaboration and standardized practices to enhance service delivery and reduce redundancies.

NGO

Agri-Food Cluster North Savo https://agrifoodclusterns.fi/en/

The Agri-Food Cluster North Savo promotes sustainable food production and innovation in the Pohjois-Savo region of Finland. It fosters collaboration among companies, research institutions, training organizations, municipalities, and NGOs to enhance the local food system. The cluster aims to increase industry innovation, visibility, and appreciation while developing regional, national, and international partnerships. It supports its members by sharing knowledge, experiences, and driving development projects.

NGO

Bio and Circular Cluster North Savo BIOCC https://biocc.fi/en/

The Bio and Circular Cluster North Savo (BIOCC) supports the growth of companies in the bio and circular economy sectors by fostering collaboration among experts in technology, product, and service development. The organization promotes sustainable development through material innovation, high-value product creation, and research into alternative biomaterials. BIOCC’s initiatives aim to enhance business opportunities while addressing environmental challenges.

NGO

Energy Cluster North Savo https://energyclusternorthsavo.fi/en/home/

The Energy Cluster North Savo supports the transition to low-carbon energy solutions by promoting renewable energy industries. It facilitates collaboration among companies, research institutions, and stakeholders to innovate in areas such as hydrogen economy, carbon capture, and energy storage. The cluster aims to develop a robust energy sector ecosystem in the North and Central Savo regions, focusing on sustainability, technology advancement, and international networking.

NGO

Kuopio Water Cluster https://kuopiowatercluster.com/

The Kuopio Water Cluster (KWC) in North Savo focuses on research, development, and innovation in the water sector. It offers comprehensive services for rapid product development, testing, and commercialization in water technology. KWC specializes in municipal water and wastewater treatment, mining, pulp & paper, and agriculture. By providing access to specialized laboratories and on-site pilot-scale demonstrations, it supports companies in creating sustainable water solutions.

NGO

Kuopio Health https://kuopiohealth.fi/en/front-page/

NGO

KesTech Cluster Savo https://kestech.fi/en/front-page/

NGO

Materia Competence Center https://www.materiakeskus.fi/fi/

NGO

DigiCenter North Savo https://www.digicenterns.fi/en/home/

NGO

Business Center https://bcpohjois-savo.fi/en/home/

Kietokukko

Tuoreverkko https://www.tuoreverkko.fi/homepage