Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment

Economic Vitality through Diversity

The project promotes the vitality of Kymenlaakso by strengthening diversity in working life and decision-making. Research, training, and networks support companies, public organizations, and decision-makers in leveraging diversity as a competitive advantage and a driver of regional development while also engaging young professionals, women, and international talents.

Towards a more vibrant and forward-thinking Kymenlaakso.

Kymenlaakso’s growth needs diversity

Concerns have arisen in Kymenlaakso regarding the imbalance in the region’s gender and age structure. The outmigration of young people, especially women, has long-term effects on the workforce and decision-making in companies and public organizations.

Research shows that diverse organizations are stronger and more successful. At the same time, the growing skills shortage in the labor market increases the need to promote diversity among employees and stakeholders.

The Economic Vitality through Diversity project’s primary goal is to highlight younger people, people with international background and especially women, in the value-based decision-making and strategies of companies and organizations, as well as more broadly within the business sector. By educating and reforming decision-making in working life, a foundation for future success can be created, one that is more vital and diverse.

Key Actions

The project will implement four work packages:

1) An analysis of the demographics of local companies and public organizations, including at the decision-making level.

2) The design and implementation of new permanent value leadership and foresight training programs, focusing on the inclusion of young people and women from various sectors. These training programs will be piloted in both companies and public organizations in the region.

3) The creation of an action plan to support workplace diversity, as well as the formation, strengthening, and training of networks.

4) A communication campaign on foresight-based value leadership throughout the duration of the project.


Project Information

Project name:

Economic Vitality through Diversity

Project duration: 1.3.2025–30.4.2027

Info

Lead partner: South-Eastern Finland University of Applied Sciences
Partial partners: Municipality of Pyhtää
Focus area: Digital economy
Impact goal: Entrepreneurship and high added value, People and user orientation

Project partners

Contacts

Phone
+358504684626
Email
Ekaterina.Brandt@xamk.fi
Department
Digitaalinen talous
Ekaterina Brandt
Project Manager
+358504684626
Ekaterina.Brandt@xamk.fi