Funding was requested for AKKE projects that focus on supporting regional RDI activities. Projects funded under this call should meet at least one of the following criteria: - the project supports research, development and innovation activities of SMEs and thus improves the innovation capacity of SMEs - the project strengthens the innovation ecosystem of the region - the project expands the number of parties involved in RDI activities The maximum amount available to fund projects received in the application round is EUR 448 000. The total number of project applications was 14 and the total amount requested was approximately EUR 950 000.

Projects funded under this call must meet at least one of the following criteria: - the project supports research, development and innovation activities of SMEs and thus improves the innovation capacity of SMEs - the project strengthens the innovation ecosystem of the region - the project expands the range of parties involved in RDI activities The application period is from 22 April 2024 to 30 August 2024 at 15.00. A maximum of EUR 448 000 is available to fund projects that have arrived in the application round. More information on the AKKE page.

The appropriation for supporting the sustainable growth and vitality of the regions (AKKE) will be used, in accordance with the decisions of the regional councils, for projects promoting the implementation of the regional programme and the Government's regional development decision. This appropriation may be used, for example, for small-scale development, experimentation and study projects based on regional strengths and specialisation. The fourth application round for AKKE (Regional Fund for Sustainable Growth and Vitality) is open from 1 December 2021 to 31 January 2022. Read more here !

The Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment granted the Regional Council of Northern Ostrobothnia a total of EUR 1 160 000 to finance thematic networks and development zones for 2021-2023. The development zone of the Bay of Bothnia (City of Oulu) received 300,000 euros in funding. In terms of thematic networks, the National Innovation Ecosystem for Welfare and Health Data (University of Oulu) received funding of EUR 500 000 and the National Hydrogen Network (City of Raahe) received funding of EUR 320 000. The Government grants funding to provincial federations that act as funding authorities for networks and zones. The Government decided on the funding at its meeting on 29 June. The appropriation of EUR 7 million for the promotion of interregional cooperation will be used to finance thematic networks and development zones for regional development. The aim is to strengthen the joint use of resources and know-how between the different regions, peer learning and the attractiveness of the regions.