Overall objectives: More small and medium-sized companies in Västerbotten will increase their growth and employment through better utilisation of international business opportunities and investments. Project objectives: More small and medium-sized companies in Västerbotten find international partners and investors in accordance with their demand and development needs Subgoals: 1. More SMEs can develop and define their needs and offerings for international partners and investors in 2. More SMEs cooperate in strategic alliances to safeguard international cooperation, investments and establishments in 3. Increased diversity in the region’s business structure in 4. Foreign investors are said to have contributed to reducing the gender segregated labour market that currently exists in Västerbotten in 5. Strengthened relations with local companies with foreign owners in 6. Strengthened methods for cooperation with the region’s business community in 7. Strengthened dialogue with the business community to benefit from the international network of exporting companies The project, focusing on the target group existing SMEs in the region, will carry out the following activities: outreach activities, investor days, fairs, events, coaching of SMEs, international contacts with potential investors, contacts between SMEs in the region and international companies etc. The following results are expected: — The project work will have helped to spread knowledge about the Västerbotten business community and the benefits of the county – New international networks for the benefit of SMEs in the region – Increased international market presence for the region’s SMEs – International investments in Västerbotten industry But the project will have strengthened the region’s SMEs’ competitiveness through internationalisation of their operations.