EMMA project strengthens immigrant entrepreneurship in rural North Karelia
A regional project strengthening immigrant entrepreneurship and rural vitality
Vitality for the rural areas of North Karelia – coordination and activation of immigrant entrepreneurship 15.6.2026–15.6.2027
Rural North Karelia needs new entrepreneurs, business continuity workers and service providers. In many localities, entrepreneurs are retiring and the number of working-age people is decreasing. At the same time, the region is home to immigrants who have skills, work experience and an interest in entrepreneurship.
The aim of the North Karelian Entrepreneurs EMMA project is to strengthen immigrant entrepreneurship, increase cooperation between entrepreneurs and actors supporting entrepreneurship, and make the opportunities offered by rural areas visible for business activities.
Information about the needs of entrepreneurs
The EMMA project creates an up-to-date picture of the situation, needs and challenges of immigrant entrepreneurs operating in North Karelia. At the same time, the functionality of business and advisory services is examined from the perspective of immigrants.
The information collected in the project will help entrepreneurship support actors develop their services and utilize the experiences of current immigrant entrepreneurs to support future entrepreneurs even after the project.
Networks and collaboration
The EMMA project brings together immigrant entrepreneurs, native Finnish entrepreneurs, business advisors, development companies and other actors providing entrepreneurship services.
The goal is to increase the flow of information, strengthen cooperation and support immigrant entrepreneurs' attachment to the region's entrepreneurial networks.
Opportunities for rural entrepreneurship
The project makes entrepreneurial opportunities in rural North Karelia visible and highlights changes of ownership as one path to entrepreneurship.
Many companies will be looking for a successor to their operations in the coming years. A change of ownership can provide an opportunity to continue an existing business based on an established customer base and business.
The EMMA project increases information about changes of ownership and promotes the meeting of entrepreneurs and potential successors.
Implementers and funding
The EMMA project is implemented by the North Karelian Entrepreneurs Association in cooperation with the North Karelian Employment Region.
The project has received funding from the European Rural Development Fund. The financing authority is the Eastern Finland Vitality Centre.
Co-financed by the European Union.
Contact
Gyongyi Matray
Project manager
050 557 8652
gyongyi.matray@yrittajat.fi
Joonas Hiltunen
Communications Manager
050 448 8468
joonas.hiltunen@yrittajat.fi
