Finnish government allocates three million euros for tourism support in Eastern Finland

The Finnish government has allocated three million euros to support tourism in Eastern Finland, which has been adversely affected by Russia’s invasion and the preceding COVID-19 pandemic. The funding aims to promote sustainable tourism growth in the region. The funds will primarily be directed towards international sales and marketing efforts for tourism businesses in Eastern Finland, particularly those deemed most promising in terms of international sales potential.

Visit Finland will play a significant role in managing these funds, leveraging its international sales channels and connections with global tour operators. The government’s belief is that an investment in tourism could enhance competitiveness in Eastern Finland. Attracting and retaining residents would be made easier as tourism investments create new jobs and services.

The three million euro initiative is part of a broader government strategy to strengthen the vitality of Eastern Finland. In addition to the sustainable tourism growth program, there’s an ongoing preparation of a comprehensive Eastern Finland program, involving regional councils from Kymenlaakso, South Karelia, North Karelia, South Savo, North Savo, and Kainuu.

Prime Minister Petteri Orpo established working groups earlier this spring focused on northern and eastern Finland, tasked with providing proposals for their respective regional action programs by the end of this year. The goal is to leverage the potential of these areas to stimulate economic growth and investment, while also enhancing Finland’s security and self-sufficiency in light of the evolving geopolitical landscape.