Innovation ecosystems and value networks

The ecosystem work is carried out in cooperation and leads to research and business cooperation, bold experiments, strengthening of knowledge and competence, new business and funding opportunities, new jobs and new global opportunities, for example. 

City of Jyväskylä Business Development Services orchestrates innovation ecosystem work in the key sectors of sports, health promotion and well-being and industry renewal. The purpose of ecosystems is to connect the right actors, open up new opportunities and markets, and obtain funding for the promotion and implementation of ideas arising from ecosystems.

The ecosystem work combines research knowledge and expertise, practical solutions and networks from local level up to global connections. The main objective of innovation ecosystem work is to support the renewal and growth of companies through research, development and innovation activities. 

Together we are more. Ecosystems are always networks of several actors, and by strengthening and building them closely together with the actors in the region, we can create growth opportunities for the region and the entire Finnish economy. 

City of Jyväskylä Business Development Services gathers value networks in innovation ecosystems, where new overall offerings are built together with actors for the global market or for large corporate customers, for example. We organise and facilitate this value networking work and related meetings and events.

In value networking, we bring together actors (companies, public organisations, experts, researchers) in joint workshops. The pooling of knowledge in workshops creates a value network that helps identify the factors that enable SMEs to grow their business internationally.

Currently active value networks:

NATO value network: Aiming to foster growth and job creation in Central Finnish companies around the NATO theme while leveraging opportunities in defense, dual-use technologies, and security of supply. Jyväskylä's recognized strengths include soldier performance, crisis resilience in Arctic conditions, and cybersecurity.

For more information, contact Sanna Laakso: sanna.laakso@jyvaskyla.fi.

Hydrogen value network: Regularly convening at Hydrogen Networking Events, this network focuses on developing ideas around the hydrogen economy, connecting industry players, and exploring business opportunities in the hydrogen sector within Central Finland.

For more information, contact Timo Harju: timo.harju@jyvaskyla.fi.

Optimal performance value network: Bringing together businesses in sports, health, and wellness, along with ICT companies, higher education institutions, research organizations, and public developers.

For more information, contact Taija Lappeteläinen: taija.lappetelainen@jyvaskyla.fi.

Biofiber value network: Based on the vision of a “Central Finland Biofiber Valley,” this initiative aims to create a shared development platform that accelerates the utilization of new bio-based raw materials and the development and production of innovative products and materials.
For more information, contact Timo Harju: timo.harju@jyvaskyla.fi.