Northern Ostrobothnia
Key Competitive Attractions
Northern Ostrobothnia, also known as North Ostrobothnia or the Oulu Region, is home to 380,000 people, 80% of which live in urban areas. The region stretches from the Gulf of Bothnia to the Russian border, and is 37,000 km sq. Northern Ostrobothnia has the youngest average population of any area in Finland, and is a growing region.
Major industries in the region include paper, steel and biotechnology. A long history of wood processing and steel manufacture has led to a world-class reputation in the shaping of natural materials. Agriculture, particularly food processing, is very important to the region's cultural identity. Emmenthaler cheese has been awarded worldwide recognition as the best cheese of its kind.
As Northern Ostrobothnia is located on the coast, it is well placed for transportation of the goods produced there. The three ports of Oulu, Raahe, and Kalajoki on the Bothnian Bay are used to transport steel, paper, timber, and machinery produced in the region throughout the year.
Assistance and Support For New Business Investors
Invest In Oulu provides support to businesses looking to move into the main city in the region. The Council of Oulu Region provides more general support, working to represent the interests of the region's businesses on a wider stage.
