Government’s analysis, assessment and research activities
Report: Obstacles to commercialisation of Arctic expertise about the same as in other business

What is required for Finland to become the Silicon Valley or “Ice Valley” of Arctic expertise is a clear definition of Arctic expertise, selection of a few key sectors, and target-oriented inputs in their development by new types of ecosystem funding and performance-based funding instruments. This is the conclusion of the report on the obstacles to and incentives for the commercial exploitation of Finland’s Arctic expertise.

The obstacles to and incentives for the productisation, commercialisation, exportation and awareness-raising of Arctic expertise are largely the same as those relating to other operations in the private or public sector.  However, some individual obstacles and incentives specific to the commercial exploitation of Arctic expertise can be identified.

Everyday know-how relating to the cold climate is not recognised as Arctic expertise, which is an obstacle to its commercial exploitation. The brand value of the Arctic aspects is not self-evident to businesses, making them less eager to commercialise, productise, sell and promote their expertise as characteristically "Arctic”. The growth prospects of the Arctic are in transition, which is why focusing on Arctic issues may be considered too narrow or risky.

In the public sector the potential of the Arctic expertise remains for the most part untapped.  For efficient exploitation of the Arctic expertise in the public sector, financial and other inputs as well as development work relating to the governance, legislation and financial instruments are needed. 

Even if we may also be critical about the commercial potential of Arctic expertise, it is an important part of the Nordic cooperation. It combines the interests of Norway, Finland and Sweden, supports cooperation in business life and in international contexts, and promotes interaction at all levels. Emphasis on the Arctic economy in international relations and commerce is a sensible policy choice for Finland. Even if the Arctic region is not likely to become the main engine of growth for the Finnish economy, it is highly significant for the regional economies. Certain sectors and projects concerning the Arctic are showing considerable promise.

The survey was carried out as part of the implementation of the Government's 2016 plan for analysis, assessment and research.

Report (In Finnish)

Further information about the Government’s analysis, assessment and research activities at tietokayttoon.fi.

Inquiries:
Mikko Martikainen, Chair of the Steering Group, Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, [email protected], tel. +358  40 717 8575
Heli Paavola, Tempo Economics, [email protected], tel. +358 50 428 0873
Antti Kaihovaara, University of Helsinki, [email protected], tel. +358 41 507 6885
Klas Blomqvist, Verde Consulting, [email protected], tel. +358 50 469 5255
Timo Hellenberg, Hellenberg International, [email protected], tel. +358 400 154 441