South Ostrobothnia: Building a Sustainable Future Through Innovation and Inclusion
A Region of Opportunity and Growth
South Ostrobothnia stands as a beacon of entrepreneurial energy and industrial innovation, with deep-rooted expertise in food production, woodworking, and advanced metal and technology sectors. Facing demographic and economic challenges head-on, our region has implemented a comprehensive Regional Strategy and Smart Specialisation Strategy (SSS) 2021–2027 to drive sustainable growth, foster innovation, and stabilize our population.
As we approach 2025, significant progress has been made, yet the journey toward long-term prosperity continues. Here’s how South Ostrobothnia is shaping its future.
Smart Specialisation: Powering Innovation
Our Smart Specialisation Strategy serves as the cornerstone of regional development, focusing on key growth sectors:
Key Achievements:
- Strengthened Innovation Ecosystems: Establishment of a national Competence Centre for digital food technologies, enhancing our position as a leader in AgriTech innovation.
- Expanded International Networks: Active participation in European partnerships including:
- ERIAFF (agriculture and food)
- ECHAlliance (health technology)
- ERNACT (digital transformation)
- Climate-Smart Transition: Ambitious targets to reduce emissions by 80% (compared to 2005 levels) through circular economy initiatives.
”By combining our traditional strengths with cutting-edge innovation, we’re creating a competitive and sustainable economic landscape.”
Addressing Demographic Challenges
Since 2013, South Ostrobothnia has faced population decline due to falling birth rates and domestic migration. However, strategic immigration policies are helping reverse this trend:
Immigration Trends:
- 2023: 1,896 net immigrants
- 2024: 1,229 net immigrants
While these numbers show progress, our long-term goal remains ambitious:
- Stabilize population at 190,000 by 2050
- Double net immigration compared to 2019 levels
”Immigration isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building a thriving, diverse community that strengthens our region’s future.”
Our Immigration Strategy: Welcoming New Talent
South Ostrobothnia’s Immigration Programme focuses on four pillars to ensure successful integration:
- Employment: Enhancing job opportunities through business-municipality partnerships
- Education & Training: Expanding language programs and vocational education
- Quality of Life: Improving access to housing, healthcare, and social services
- Community Integration: Fostering mutual understanding between newcomers and residents
Where Our New Residents Come From:
- EU Nations (Estonia, Latvia, Poland)
- Ukraine & Russia
- Asia
- Middle East
2023 Snapshot:
- 5,746 foreign nationals
- Top groups: Ukrainians (26.8%), Estonians (11.2%), Russians (9.6%)
- Regional distribution: 70% Europe, 23% Asia, 7% other continents
The Path Forward
South Ostrobothnia’s achievements in population stabilization and innovation through our Smart Specialisation Strategy demonstrate our region’s resilience and forward-thinking approach. However, our work continues as we:
- Strengthen immigrant integration to boost employment rates
- Enhance retention of foreign-language professionals
- Deepen international collaborations in key sectors
- Maintain our commitment to sustainable development
”Our progress reflects the collective effort of municipalities, businesses, educational institutions, and community partners working together toward shared goals.”
As we look to the future, South Ostrobothnia remains committed to being a region where tradition and innovation coexist, where diverse talents find opportunity, and where sustainable growth benefits all residents. The foundations we’re building today will ensure South Ostrobothnia’s continued prosperity for generations to come.
