The year 2024 was a time of active development in the NIHAK area. The demand for consulting services increased in all municipalities. A record number of 2,807 service contacts took place in NIHAK’s business services. Business Services supported entrepreneurs in particular with business start-ups, business development, and financing arrangements.
Companies in the region are investing significantly in the development and expansion of their operations. Several companies applied for funding from the Ely Centre, Business Finland and Leader action groups, and these grants enabled, among other things, the purchase of new machinery and equipment and the renewal of the business. Promoting internationalization and networking opportunities also came up as important areas for development.
During the year, NIHAK organized numerous events that provided entrepreneurs with up-to-date information and opportunities for networking. For example, at morning coffee events, entrepreneurs met to discuss various themes, such as funding opportunities, shareholder agreements, and employee engagement. One of the biggest efforts of the year was the Yritysmarkkinat event organized in the spring to bring together people planning to buy or sell a business. The number of changes of ownership is growing in the region and in the future, NIHAK will invest more and more in developing the know-how of companies for preparing for changes of ownership and ensuring business continuity.
Project activities accelerated the development of companies and the vitality of the region
In 2024, project activities played a significant role in the development of the region’s business sector and business support. NIHAK had a total of 17 ongoing projects through which 785 different activities were implemented.
The focus areas of project activities were particularly related to the development of companies’ competence, internationalization, improvement of the availability of labor, and sustainable growth. Workshops were organized for companies, where they received concrete tools for expanding their business operations and utilization of digitalization. Many companies made use of the expertise assistance provided through projects, for example, in finding financing solutions, improving production efficiency, and implementing new technology.
The challenges in the availability of labor were addressed by supporting companies in recruiting skilled labor, as well as by strengthening the cooperation between companies and educational institutions. In addition, companies were assisted in finding international recruitment opportunities and in developing the long-term availability of labor.
In regional development, special emphasis was placed on attracting investments and creating new business opportunities. NIHAK actively promoted renewable energy production investments in the region in cooperation with companies and our clientele. Opportunities for local companies to participate in these future renewable energy projects were supported and building new partnerships was promoted through concrete measures such as participation in industry fairs and events.
A review of the future
The year 2024 showed that companies in the area of operation of NIHAK are growth-oriented and ready to develop their business. Large numbers of new companies will continue to be established, and financial advice will continue to play an important role in supporting business development. Close cooperation between the municipalities in the region has made it possible for NIHAK to provide high-quality business and regional development services.
Companies increasingly need tailor-made advice on ownership change, internationalization, and business development. NIHAK responds to this need by further developing services, ensuring the best conditions for companies to grow and thrive both locally and internationally.
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