Business ecosystem development in the Oulu region – influence of public financing for international support services and export development
Thesis event information
Date and time of the thesis defence
Place of the thesis defence
Linnanmaa, L2
Topic of the dissertation
Business ecosystem development in the Oulu region – influence of public financing for international support services and export development
Doctoral candidate
Master of Education Sanna Savolainen
Faculty and unit
University of Oulu Graduate School, Oulu Business School, Martti Ahtisaari Institute
Subject of study
Business Sciences
Opponent
Professor Hanna Lehtimäki, University of Eastern Finland
Custos
Professor Petri Ahokangas, University of Oulu
Public funding influence on internationalisation and ecosystem development in the Oulu region
The study provides a holistic view of business ecosystem development in the Oulu Region, focusing on the role of public financing in internationalisation and export services. Anchored in entrepreneurial ecosystem literature, the research highlights differences in ecosystem perspectives and actions among regional actors. Through qualitative analysis of 11 internationalisation support service developers and 8 SMEs involved in publicly funded initiatives, the study reveals regional-level insights into ecosystem development.
The findings show how public financing influences policy, governance, and SME practices, emphasising trust, transparency, and emotional factors in collaboration. Using systems theory and systems thinking, the study enriches entrepreneurial ecosystem literature by examining dynamic development practices. It offers actionable implications for future research, policymaking, and governance, aiming to foster open collaboration, confidential cooperation, and long-term planning in regional development.
The study deepens understanding of ecosystem development and future perspectives in internationalisation and export. It underscores the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among developers, companies, and policymakers. These stakeholders can use the findings to support effective regional development and decision-making in the Oulu Region.
The findings show how public financing influences policy, governance, and SME practices, emphasising trust, transparency, and emotional factors in collaboration. Using systems theory and systems thinking, the study enriches entrepreneurial ecosystem literature by examining dynamic development practices. It offers actionable implications for future research, policymaking, and governance, aiming to foster open collaboration, confidential cooperation, and long-term planning in regional development.
The study deepens understanding of ecosystem development and future perspectives in internationalisation and export. It underscores the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among developers, companies, and policymakers. These stakeholders can use the findings to support effective regional development and decision-making in the Oulu Region.
Last updated: 18.9.2025