New innovations don’t emerge from nowhere – Companies in Kanta-Häme connect with research and funding networks.
At the end of February, the joint Funding Agent initiative run by the development companies of Kanta-Häme has made visible what research, development and innovation (RDI) work truly requires in practice: years of systematic network-building, dozens of meetings, and the courage to open doors to Europe.
The operating model, launched in 2024, aimed to activate SMEs to join RDI cooperation and to build a bridge between companies and research organisations.
“Above all, our work has highlighted that Kanta-Häme has a significant number of companies that are eager and capable of developing their operations, with strong potential for growth and new breakthroughs,” says Outi Myllymaa, Project Coordinator at Linnan Kehitys.
“Cooperation with Häme EU Office has also provided us with valuable up-to-date information on funding programmes and thematic priorities.”
A portfolio of 30 companies and an extensive partner network for RDI cooperation
During the Funding Agent initiative, a portfolio of around 30 companies from across the region was compiled. It includes both small growth companies and more established players from several sectors.
The portfolio work began already in 2024 and has since been systematically updated and refined. At the same time, a network of contacts with research institutions was built – first through online meetings and background work, and later through on-site visits.
In 2024–2025, visits and cooperation meetings were carried out or prepared with, among others, the University of Oulu and VTT in Oulu, LUT University in Lappeenranta, Aalto University and the University of Turku. Additional networking took place at international meetings in Brussels and Munich.
Last autumn, several European research and technology actors from Belgium, Denmark and Lithuania were met, alongside Finnish partners. Multiple rounds of negotiations were conducted with several organisations, indicating a deepening of cooperation.
“Innovation activities are not quick lottery wins – they require long-term effort to ensure that companies, research institutions and projects find one another,” says Anne Tasaranta, Business Developer at Forssan Yrityskehitys.
Tambest from Forssa found an RDI partner in Oulu
One concrete example of the results of this networking is the cooperation between Tambest, a company from Forssa, and the University of Oulu. Through contacts established by the Funding Agent, Tambest became the first corporate customer of the university’s 6G test centre.
Tambest is a privately owned glass processing plant in Forssa, with roots extending over 40 years. The company already manufactures more than a thousand laminated glass units per week and develops bullet-resistant, blast-resistant and RF-shielding glass solutions for dual-use markets in the Nordic countries, the Baltics and NATO countries.
At the University of Oulu’s 6G test centre, 12 types of bullet-resistant and EMI-shielded glass samples were tested. The results were successful and will support the development of even thinner and lighter solutions that meet the future needs of wireless communication and secure infrastructure.
Next: 40–50 companies engaged in long-term development
The work started by the Funding Agent will now continue with the BRIDGE – Innovation Pathways and Research Networks for SMEs in Kanta-Häme project, launching in March. This next phase will take the model further, aiming to engage 40–50 companies from the region in systematic RDI cooperation for the next two and a half years – nationally and across Europe.
The project supports companies in utilising national and EU funding instruments, building consortia, and developing new products, services and business models.
At the same time, the goal is to expand networks nationally and internationally and strengthen expertise in areas such as the green transition, digitalisation and dual-use technologies.
“The goal is not a one-off project but a permanent shift toward making RDI activities a natural part of the growth and renewal of SMEs in Kanta-Häme,” emphasises Laura Manner-Raappana, Business Advisor at Riihimäen Tilat ja Kehitys Oy.
“SMEs in Kanta-Häme interested in RDI cooperation are welcome to join the portfolio by contacting their local economic development company.”
The Funding Agent project received AKKE funding from the Regional Council of Häme, with additional funding from municipalities and development companies in Kanta-Häme. The BRIDGE project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through the Regional Council of Häme. Hämeen Yrittäjät ry is also a partner in the BRIDGE project.
More information:
As a SME company, please join our Portfolio for Europe!
Laura Manner-Raappana, Business Advisor, laura.manner-raappana@riihimaki.fi
