Research, expertise and innovation in focus when the dialogue tour reached Gällivare

How can Norrbotten capitalize on its strengths and at the same time meet the challenges that result from societal transformation, a changed security situation and new needs in society? This was a central question when representatives from business, the public sector, research and civil society gathered in Gällivare for dialogue.

The meeting was the last in the dialogue series that was held ahead of the update of Norrbotten's smart specialization strategy. Now, those of you who did not participate in any dialogue meeting can submit your views digitally.

– We hope that as many people as possible want to participate in shaping the future strategy for research, innovation and business. Through the dialogues, there has been an opportunity to share thoughts about Norrbotten's challenges, strengths and future needs. If you were not able to participate, there is now a chance to submit your views digitally until September 11, says Carola Medelid, strategist at Region Norrbotten.

Here you can submit your entries digitally.

Energy and transition require a holistic approach

A large part of the conversation in Gällivare was about how research and innovation can contribute to a competitive and sustainable business community in Norrbotten. Participants particularly highlighted the energy issue and the need to look at the entire chain – from production and storage to distribution and use.

Hydrogen was mentioned as an example where technology, business development and regulations need to be developed together. In order for companies to be able to invest in the long term, clear and stable conditions are also required.

Skills supply affects all areas

The dialogue showed that the transition creates new opportunities, but also new challenges. As the industry grows and changes, conflicts of interest sometimes arise regarding how land and resources should be used. This requires knowledge, collaboration and dialogue between different actors.

Skills supply was raised as a crucial issue for the development of the entire county.

“An important question is how we can work together to strengthen the supply of skills. The question affects all focus areas and all sectors to some extent,” says Sara Karlsson Alalahti, operations manager for Leader Polaris.

Participants stressed that both more people and the right skills are needed for research and innovation to lead to concrete results. The need is particularly great in technology, digitalization and new ways of working.

Sara Pejok (Region Västerbotten) on the left and Elina Nygård (Ájtte - Swedish Mountain and Sami Museum) on the right.

More companies need to benefit from innovation

The discussions also focused on how more companies can take part in research, innovation and new technology. Small and medium-sized companies were described as important for development in Norrbotten, but many have limited opportunities to participate in larger development initiatives.

At the same time, there are established strengths in areas such as mining and metals. Experience, methods and knowledge from these environments can also be useful in other industries.

AI and digitalization create new opportunities

Digitalization and artificial intelligence were highlighted as tools that can streamline operations and create new opportunities. Examples mentioned were faster analyses and better decision-making.

At the same time, participants emphasized that technology only has an effect when it is used in practice. Therefore, both competence and clear work are needed to introduce new ways of working in organizations and companies.

Stronger collaboration is needed

– We have a lot of research and development in Norrbotten, but more results need to be put into practice. This requires stronger collaboration between companies, the public sector and research actors. This was a recurring point of view during the conversation in Gällivare, says Per Erik Andersson, strategist at Region Norrbotten.

Overall, the discussions pointed to the need to strengthen the connection between research, innovation and business. The goal is for more ideas and research results to be translated into practical solutions that contribute to sustainable development and increased competitiveness in Norrbotten. 

Text: Carola Medelid, Sara Stylbäck Vesa
Photos: Joe Lindehag