Resilience, Green Transition And Digitalization of SMEs

Background and goals

The goal of the green transition is to support the restructuring of the economy and the construction of a carbon-neutral society. Reducing greenhouse gases and getting to carbon-neutral operation is a complex systemic change, which now requires new innovations, a comprehensive change at the system level, and the introduction of new practices and technologies.

Renewing and making change is challenging using old ways of working and technologies. New innovations, operational and cooperation models are needed for the necessary change, which are created by intensifying cooperation, increasing the level of knowledge and concrete project activities.

The project combines the best expertise of universities, as well as companies and entrepreneurs at the regional (Southern Finland, 9 universities of applied sciences) and national (21) level. The goal is to develop operating models and implement events that support companies' ability to change in the green transition and the utilization of new technology.

The ecosystem network of Universities of Applied Sciences enables learning and development in various research, development and learning projects related to climate change mitigation. The goal is to produce the necessary tools and support for the ability of companies and entrepreneurs to change, which contributes to sustainable system change, the green transition and the development of new operating models in the operations of companies.

Objectives and benefits

Develop events, micro-courses and support programs, as well as concrete activities and cooperation projects with universities and companies (open learning environments), raise the competence and knowledge level of employees and enable peer to peer learning. Various learning methods, models, training and counseling promote the capabilities, know-how and ability of companies and personnel to change in a rapidly changing operating environment, while also preparing students for working life

Results

The ecosystem network formed by higher education institutions and the cooperation with companies materializes as new operating models, products or services. The development of business and operating models contributes to the green transition and improves employment, as well as promotes the competitiveness and resilience of regions. The learning units, services and events offered in the project improve the competence of company management in the responsible management of crisis situations.

Societal impact

On a national level the project will contribute to a restructuring of the economy towards a carbon neutral society. The aim of the Arcada part of the project is to mainly support Swedish and English speaking businesses in their green transition. This will address a societal need for more knowledge and competence development provided in these languages in regards to the necessary transition to a sustainable society. The project will also contribute to a transition of businesses to a circular economy.