Smart specialization – this is how we prioritize for the future

Smart specialization is a tool from the EU that helps us prioritize ideas and projects. It's about investing in the right things – things that can contribute to development and growth in Norrbotten.

Our work is based on being flexible and collaborating across borders. Through innovation and collaboration, we strengthen the areas where we are already strong, while developing new ones.

Our strengths and areas for development

Norrbotten's economy is built on strong basic industries such as mineral resources, the steel industry, forest resources and hydropower. Together, they account for a large part of the county's economy and create good conditions for continued growth and development.

At the same time, we need to develop and strengthen more areas to meet the needs of the future. These include smart communities, Arctic testbeds, energy technology and space technology. Cultural and creative industries and the tourism industry are also important parts of the work to broaden and strengthen Norrbotten's development.

New strategy is being developed

Work is now underway on a new strategy for smart specialization. It is expected to be completed in late autumn 2027.

Region Norrbotten is leading the work, but the strategy is being developed together with stakeholders from across the county – companies, organizations, academia and the public sector.

The goal is to create a common basis for future priorities and collaborations.

Here you can see the current strategy: Smart specialization strategy