The Seinäjoki economic region is at a crossroads in many ways, but above all, it stands at the threshold of new opportunities. At MDI, we conducted a study on the potential of local manufacturing and technology companies in dual-use technologies, security of supply, and aviation solutions. The study highlights promising findings and clear development directions.
This work is part of the ecosystem agreement between the City of Seinäjoki and the Finnish government, focusing primarily on the sustainable renewal of the food ecosystem and the smart renewal of industry. In the latter theme, the changed geopolitical situation and the growing importance of security of supply open new doors for regional companies—especially in the development of dual-use technologies, where products or solutions have applications in both civilian and defense sectors.
Companies Ready and Interested
According to the study, many local companies already operate in or could, with minor adjustments, expand their business into dual-use technologies. Key strengths in the region include component manufacturing, materials handling, and the ability to meet demanding standards.
“Several companies already have some connections to defense industry supply chains, but they have potential to integrate more strongly into these value chains,” emphasizes Elisabet Kivimäki from Into Seinäjoki Oy.
To succeed, companies feel they need support in networking and identifying the right contacts, developing innovation activities, understanding business opportunities, and interpreting regulatory requirements and standards.
Airport Area as a Development Platform
One of the most interesting development targets is the airport area located in Rengonharju, which is emerging as a unique testing and development environment for future aviation and autonomous technologies.
“The strengths of the airport area include its location, diverse business network, and development opportunities. There is a shared will in the region for ambitious development efforts,” comments Kivimäki.
The airport and its surroundings are also seen as an important platform for piloting dual-use technologies and defense sector solutions. Particularly, drone logistics has been a focus area, and the airport provides excellent conditions for international breakthroughs in this field.
A Common Direction is Needed
The study shows that the Seinäjoki region has the opportunity to grow its business in the themes of dual-use technologies, defense industry, and security of supply. Realizing these opportunities requires a clear shared understanding of the situation, focused development choices, and concrete actions.
According to Juho Nyman, leading expert at MDI, key questions when planning future measures are which specific themes the region should concentrate on, where realistic opportunities for specialization and footholds exist, and how cooperation between research, development, and innovation (RDI) activities and companies can be further strengthened.
In upcoming initiatives, it is crucial to combine the region’s existing strengths with new growth drivers. At the same time, it must be ensured that companies have the necessary support to direct their operations towards new opportunities and that the Seinäjoki region stays competitive in the race towards a smarter, more sustainable, and safer future.
For more information:
Elisabet Kivimäki, Account Manager
+358 40 760 3907
elisabet.kivimaki@intoseinajoki.fi
Read the full report here (Only in Finnish).
This study was conducted as part of the Seinäjoki innovation ecosystem agreement (ERDF) coordinated by Into Seinäjoki Oy. The activities are funded by the European Union and the City of Seinäjoki. Through this ecosystem agreement, Seinäjoki is part of the national Innocities network.
