Partner search: Karelia University of Applied Sciences (Joensuu, North Karelia, Finland) is currently seeking Nordic partners to join the development of an international project under the Interreg Aurora programme. The project focuses on supporting micro and small craft enterprises located in remote and sparsely populated areas across the Nordic region.
We believe that empowering craft enterprises is essential for the vitality of Nordic communities. These businesses are more than just producers of handmade crafts — they play a vital role in preserving and revitalizing cultural heritage, including traditional techniques, locally inspired design practices, and regionally sourced materials.
However, these companies face several challenges: limited access to business development services, few networking opportunities, and a lack of digital tools. One of the main reasons for these challenges is the small size of the companies. With only a few staff members, resources are typically spent on day-to-day operations, leaving little room for development.
The planned actions of the project will combine digital tools and in-person meetings to support craft entrepreneurs across the Nordic region. A digital learning platform will offer flexible, cross-border training and networking opportunities, allowing entrepreneurs to develop skills and collaborate regardless of location. In addition, face-to-face meetings between entrepreneurs from different regions will be organized to build trust, share experiences, and strengthen the sense of community among Nordic craft professionals.
We currently have Finnish partners involved in the project. To ensure a truly Nordic approach, we are now looking for organizations from Sweden, Norway, and Sámi regions that are interested in craft development, cultural heritage, digital learning, or sustainable tourism. Suitable partners may include educational institutions, development agencies, craft associations, or tourism organizations.
If your organization is active in these fields and would like to be part of a cross-border initiative, we warmly invite you to contact us for further discussions.
Contact:
Paavo Raappana
Project Manager
Karelia University of Applied Sciences
paavo.raappana@karelia.fi
+358 504659027
