08.09.2025
Funding for pilots – call open for SMART ERA!
Does your company or organisation have an innovative technology solution that could meet the current challenges of rural areas? The first open pilot call of the SMART ERA project offers a unique opportunity to get involved in the development of new solutions.
Two pilots will be carried out in Northern Ostrobothnia, which are described in the Applicant's Guide:
- Smart Economy Service Platform – a smart service platform for rural areas
- AI-Assisted Conceptualization of Rural Businesses Based on Deep Local Knowledge
Selected implementers will even be offered: Funding of €60,000 per challenge and access to a nine-month support programme with expertise, networks and international visibility.
The SMART ERA project will implement a total of 11 technology pilots corresponding to: Rural innovation needs. The project operates in six European pilot areas, one of which is Northern Ostrobothnia.
The deadline for applications is 4.11.2025 at 16.00 (Finnish time).
Read more and submit your application:
- Applicant's Guide – find out more about the pilot challenges and the application process
- Northern Ostrobothnia's challenges are Numbers 5 and 6 – Submit your application in OnePass from this link
- Homepage of the SMART ERA project
Further information:
Saija Tikkanen, Regional Council of Northern Ostrobothnia
Iikka Meriläinen, Kerttu Saalasti Institute, University of Oulu
