Clusters
Lapland’s Smart Specialisation Strategy guides the development cooperation models based on the needs of the companies and other end users and the utilisation of RDI networks that strengthen the priorities.
The development of business-based cooperation models involves, for example, cluster activities. Lapland’s smart specialisation clusters are to be subject to the following criteria:
- The development of cluster operations to orient them to business requires that companies are involved in the cluster whose participation can be verified (by, e.g. partnership agreements)
- The cluster should have a duly appointed director
- The cluster should have a strategy and execution plan
- The cluster must generate a minimum of two activities per year for its members (events, services, production of information, etc.)
- In the management of the cluster and in planning activities and services, business needs should be taken into account
- The cluster should maintain regular dialogue and co-operation between the cluster’s actors (especially companies)
- The cluster must have its own website and provide a clear, practically attainable description of what the cluster offers
- The cluster’s operations are to be evaluated on a regular basis
Arctic Industrial Circular Economy Cluster
In the Finnish Lapland, the operations of the Industrial Circular Economy Cluster are managed by the Circular Economy Centre. The purpose of the activities is to create growth and new markets for the companies belonging to the cluster, as well as networks that support these goals. In addition, the cluster organizes various meetings,networking opportunities, and annual events for its members.
The Cluster supports companies in developing, growing, and strengthening their capabilities within the circular economy and industrial ecosystems. Cluster’s services are designed to help businesses identify opportunities, build competence, accelerate innovation, and increase visibility.
Success has not been accidental; the Circular Economy Center has been systematically built over the years through close collaboration with various stakeholders, nationally within the network of the eco-industrial parks, and internationally within the Circular Economy EU Alliance. An example of this work is the Gold Label awarded to the cluster by The European Secretariat of Cluster Analysis ESCA in 2026.
The operations and development of the cluster are overseen by the Director of the Circular Economy Center, Tuomas Pussila, in collaboration with various stakeholders.