BOCOD Project to Strengthen the Continuity of Rural Businesses in Finland, Ireland, and Iceland

The three-year BOCOD project (Boosting Continuity and Digitalisation of Rural Region Businesses), launched in April 2025, brings new momentum to rural businesses in Finland, Ireland, and Iceland. In these regions, business continuity and vitality are challenged by geographic remoteness, an aging population, and a declining number of business successors.
BOCOD-työryhmän jäseniä

Building on the Interreg NPA EBoost project, BOCOD offers an innovative approach to enhancing business continuity and sustainability through digitalisation. The project focuses on strengthening digital skills and providing tailored support to improve competitiveness and facilitate business succession. It supports rural micro and SME businesses in embracing digital transformation and preparing for business transfer.

Key outputs of the project include a comprehensive resource mapping, digital skills training, and actions that support business continuity and transitions. Through cross-border cooperation, the project ensures that businesses are better prepared for future changes and business transfers.

The total budget of the project is €1.5 million, of which the University of Oulu’s share is €214,600. The project is coordinated by Munster Technological University (Ireland), with partners including the University of Oulu, Business Joensuu Ltd, Lapland University of Applied Sciences Ltd, the Westfjords Regional Development Office, and the East Iceland Regional Development Office.

BOCOD is funded by the Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic Programme. The project strengthens the competitiveness of rural businesses and creates new growth opportunities in the long term.

For more information: BOCOD – Boosting Continuity and Digitalisation of Rural Region Businesses

Last updated: 16.4.2025