Kohesio: discover EU projects in your region

project info
Start date: 1 April 2024
End date: 31 March 2026
funding
Fund: European Social Fund Plus (ESF+)
Total budget: 205 315,00 €
EU contribution: 123 189,00 € (60%)
programme
Programming period: 2021-2027
European Commission Topic
European Commission Topic

Enhancing enterpreneurship among immigrants in Kainuu and Koillismaa

The objective of the project is to enhance entrepreneurship among non-native speakers and develop employment and business advisory support services tailored to them in the Kainuu and Koillismaa regions in Finland. This addresses three specific needs in the area. Firstly, the number of immigrants has rapidly increased in Kainuu and Koillismaa. Among them, unemployment is significantly higher than that of the native population. Secondly, simultaneously, entrepreneurs are aging, and many industries are facing a shortage of workforce. Thirdly, employment and vitality services in municipalities are undergoing significant changes as employment services shift to municipalities from the beginning of 2025. The primary target group of the project is non-native individuals planning to start businesses in Kainuu or Koillismaa. The secondary target group includes employment and business advisors, multicultural career coaches, and instructors in Kainuu and Koillismaa. The project aims to strengthen the expertise of employment and business advisors, pilot a mentorship model for aspiring entrepreneurs, establish advisory points, initiate a support network for entrepreneurs, and organize events where various stakeholders meet. Ensuring the project's impact is crucial, ensuring that knowledge, information, and structures have been created within the target groups. This, in turn, ensures the integration of the project's results. The project, lasting for two years, is led by Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, with the involvement of Kajaani City, Suomussalmi and Sotkamo municipalities, and the development company Naturpolis Oy from Koillismaa.

Flag of Finland  Kainuu, Finland