Biovalley Finland
Central Ostrobothnia is known for Biovalley. The combination of chemistry, mineral economy and rural industries as a profile of smart specialisation is unique and distinguishes the region from other regions in Finland and Europe. Biovalley Finland is a support and promotion project aimed at the internationalisation of Biovalley. The aim is for Biovalley to become an internationally attractive circular economy ecosystem, creating new businesses, jobs and new investments. The result is a strong circular economy area in which three industries (chemical, primary and extractive industries) operate synergistically. The project promotes the development and implementation of smart specialisation in Central Ostrobothnia, as well as the funding and influence of provincial actors. The project supports the activities and role of the province in the EU Smart Specialisation Forums where Central Ostrobothnia is involved as a region. As a result, new contacts and new know-how will be channelled to the region. The project will jointly support the area’s content research and development as well as the product development of companies. During the project, modelling of the commercialisation process of selected new innovations in the circular economy will be created. The project makes influencer communication and produces the necessary material for joint use. Biovalley events, such as Kokkola Material Week, are a key part of promoting visibility. As a result of the project, Biolaakso’s visibility will increase nationally and internationally. There are 23 partners in the Biolaakso Framework Agreement. The consortium is coordinated by Chydenius, Kokkola University Centre. Biolaakso’s cooperation agreement will be renewed and the Consortium’s operations will be established as a permanent operating model. Biolaakso’s Advisory Council is internationalising. The project has positive effects on the region’s attractiveness, employment, internationality and new circular economy value chains.