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Northern Ostrobothnia

Yhteisösi,
tulevaisuutemme

Situated in the northernmost reaches of Finland, Northern Ostrobothnia is a testament to the region’s vastness and remoteness.

Spanning 36,800 square kilometers, Northern Ostrobothnia had a population of 415,603 in 2021. This equates to a population density of just 11.3 people per square kilometre, highlighting the vast expanses of untouched wilderness that characterise the region.

Northern Ostrobothnia is one of the few regions in Finland that has experienced consistent annual population growth. This growth is fuelled by factors such as a vibrant economy, ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, and a high quality of life.

Overcoming Obstacles:
Key Challenges in Transitioning to the SMART ERA

Population growth is limited, with growth occurring in only seven out of twenty-nine municipalities.
The area is facing demographic shifts, including declining birth rates and migration, which pose challenges.

Challenges include ensuring the well-being of entrepreneurs and preventing youth migration to urban areas.
Despite having a young population and a history of sustained population growth, it remains one of the leasted populated areas in the European Union.

Targets

Northern rural platform economy, digital platform services, small companies (especially well-being services, maintenance services and mobility), tourism, seasonal living.

Who will be a part of the change?

Northern rural platform economy, service and technology microenterprises and SMEs, multilocal workers, local community, PA, business support service providers | 10-15% of the total resident population.

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