Introduction to the Strategy of Central Finland 2050

The strategy of Central Finland is based on objectives that bring together local operators and that can only be accomplished together. Success is in our own hands, and we ourselves are responsible for the direction in which the region will evolve over the coming decades. This strategy sets out a common direction for our work, both for the coming years and for the longer term. In regional development, we will focus on four priorities in the coming years.

Kaksi valkotakkista, suojalaseihin sonnustautunutta henkilöä katsoo ikkunasta huoneeseen. Toisella henkilöllä on kädessään muistikirja. Henkilöiden kuvat peilautuvat ikkunalasista.

We accelerate growth

Courage, expertise and entrepreneurship are what drive us forward. Intensive RDI operations generate innovations and pave the way for export markets. Unemployment is reduced when the available expertise matches the needs of working life and support is directed to the right place at the right time. Investment opportunities, smooth connections and a skilled workforce make Central Finland attractive and strengthen its competitiveness.

We are a force of nature

Our success has always been based on natural resources, which is why we take good care of them. We use resources wisely by utilising what we have and maintaining the condition of our water bodies. We strengthen both food production and self-sufficiency and safeguard biodiversity. We are moving towards carbon neutrality by 2030.

We take care of people

Vitality is generated when people are well and feel safe in their environment. Together, we develop services across borders, take advantage of digitalisation and make sure everyone’s voice is heard. We strengthen young people’s faith in the future by providing opportunities and meaningful activities. Trust and interaction are the foundation of everything.

We nourish our roots

Central Finland is a mosaic of dozens of local cultures and identities. The best bits can be seen and felt in our UNESCO sites, Alvar Aalto’s architecture, vibrant events and the Finnish sauna heritage. We focus on internationality and diversity to make everyone feel welcome. Together, we are building a story with room to grow and interact at the heart of everything.

Aiming for a future-proof, attractive and international Central Finland in 2050

Growth drivers

Growth drivers are industries with strong RDI activities in Central Finland. They help us support the growth, profitability and sustainability of our businesses. Growth drivers are also smart specialisation choices for Central Finland.

Central Finland in 2050

We are building a sustainable future by investing in complete sustainability and safety. In Central Finland, you can create, innovate and move towards a better tomorrow, confident that life will carry you. We take care of ourselves and each other.

Central Finland stirs emotions. We have hundreds of empowering natural sites and joyful cultural events. Our story is about stirring interactions and the inspiring people of Central Finland.

The Central Finland of the future is international, and the whole world is our operating environment. We interact with people as human beings with open minds and acceptance – we are at the heart of the world’s flow.

In all we do, we rely on a civilised heart, a rooted and evolving knowledge base and trust. Together, we look to the future with curiosity.

Implementation of the strategy

The Strategy of Central Finland is an expression of a common will to develop. It is a handbook that guides our work towards a future-proof Central Finland. Find out more about the strategy process, implementation and monitoring:

Strategy indicators

Strategy of Central Finland 2026–2050 (pdf in Finnish)

Regional structure of Central Finland 2050 (pdf in Finnish)

Central Finland Environmental Report (pdf in Finnish)

Evaluation of the provincial program (pdf in Finnish)

The strategy work in Central Finland is coordinated by the Regional Council of Central Finland:

To the website of the Regional Council of Central Finland