Building bridges for immigrant entrepreneurs in North Ostrobothnia – Together in Business: Global Minds, Local Success

For Älyvoima, which focuses on supporting female immigrant entrepreneurs, participating in this initiative was both a natural and meaningful opportunity. Beyond introducing our work, the event allowed us to listen, learn, and engage directly with the entrepreneurs and future entrepreneurs we seek to support. It also highlighted the importance of collaboration among organisations working to create a more inclusive and supportive business environment in the region.

A space for stories, learning, and networking

The afternoon began with a warm welcome from Milla Raappana of Pohjois-Pohjanmaan Yrittäjät, setting the tone for an event focused on dialogue, shared experiences, and community over formal presentations. A key message of the event was that entrepreneurship is rarely a straight path. Each entrepreneur’s story was unique, but many described familiar challenges: adapting to new environments, building networks, understanding local systems, and staying confident in uncertainty.

Oksana Pustov, founder of Velure Kaakkurin Kauneuskeskus, spoke about the practical and personal challenges of building a beauty business in Finland. Her story showed how perseverance, learning, and seeking support can turn obstacles into opportunities. Lilian Dias, founder of Nature Dream Days, shared her experience of establishing a tourism company centered on authentic Finnish nature. Her reflections on adapting to a new country resonated with many. The event highlighted how immigrant entrepreneurs bring valuable skills and ideas that enrich local communities.

The event concluded with a panel “Different Paths to Entrepreneurship” featuring Maria Poludennaia of Oulu Hotel and Matthew Barth from Industrial Strength Coffee. The discussion reinforced that there’s no single formula for success: some plan for years, others find opportunities unexpectedly. The most important thing is to take the first step and keep learning.

Connecting entrepreneurs with local support

In addition to sharing personal experiences, the event provided practical information about the support services available to entrepreneurs in the region. Representatives from Pohjois-Pohjanmaan Yrittäjät, Startup Refugees, BusinessOulu, Oulun Seudun Uusyrityskeskus, OuluES, and the Älyvoima project introduced resources designed to help entrepreneurs start, sustain, and grow their businesses. A recurring theme during the discussions was that successful entrepreneurship does not happen in isolation. Access to advice, mentoring, networks, and business development services can make a significant difference, particularly for entrepreneurs who are navigating a new country and business environment.

On behalf of the Älyvoima project, Project Coordinator Shahed Mahmud highlighted how generative AI can support entrepreneurs in areas such as idea development, marketing, communication, and business planning. He also presented the ways Älyvoima helps immigrant women build digital skills and confidence in using emerging technologies as part of their entrepreneurial journey.

Building a stronger entrepreneurial community

More than anything, the event demonstrated the value of bringing people together. While information and support services are important, meaningful connections among entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, and support organisations are often what help turn ideas into action. The gathering marked an important step toward building a stronger and more connected network of immigrant entrepreneurs in North Ostrobothnia. It created opportunities not only to learn from successful entrepreneurs, but also to establish new relationships, exchange experiences, and recognise that many entrepreneurial challenges are shared.

For the Älyvoima project, this is exactly where our work belongs: helping create visibility, connections, and opportunities for female immigrant entrepreneurs while contributing to a region where entrepreneurial talent from diverse backgrounds can thrive and succeed.

Authors

Shahed Mahmud, Project Coordinator, Doctoral Researcher
José-Carlos García-Rosell, Professor, Business Ethics
Department of Marketing, Management and International Business
Oulu Business School, University of Oulu.

Learn more about the Älyvoima project: https://www.oulu.fi/en/projects/alyvoima-smart-power

Authors’ note: For developing the content, assistance has been taken from Generative AI platforms.