Air photo from Oulu

Oulu brings key insights to the Arctic Frontiers

27.01.2025

This week, it’s time to focus on the pressing issues of the Arctic as Arctic Frontiers kicks off in Tromsø. This key event gathers scientists, policymakers, and business leaders from across the Arctic to discuss the region's most pressing challenges and opportunities. Oulu, a city renowned for its innovation and forward-thinking strategies, is set to deliver strong contributions to these discussions.

Oulu’s delegation, led by Mayor Ari Alatossava, Head of International Affairs Anne Rännäli-Kontturi, and BusinessOulu’s Cleantech and industry key account director Janne Hietaniemi, will approach the conference with a three-point strategic focus.

 

Joint Northern Agenda: Stronger Together

Collaboration between Finland, Sweden, and Norway is essential for addressing the Arctic's opportunities and challenges. At Arctic Frontiers Abroad event held last September in Oulu, participants highlighted the need to strengthen this trilateral cooperation. The Arctic’s natural resources offer significant economic potential, but geopolitical and environmental changes demand coordinated action.

Currently, Finland's Prime Minister’s Office is leading the development of a joint Northern Agenda, focusing on how municipalities can contribute to security and how business development can serve as a tool for national resilience. An important priority of the agenda is to intensify cooperation with Sweden and Norway – both in regional and national level. For this reason, the preparation and implementation of the northern agenda will place particular emphasis on cooperation between the business sector, cities, regions, higher education institutions, research institutes and the state.

Stronger Together: Nordic Collaboration in the Arctic
Tuesday, 28 January at 11:30 – 13:00 (UTC +1) with Janne Hietaniemi

The EU’s hydrogen revolution begins in the Bothnian Arc

Oulu is rapidly becoming a leader in renewable energy innovation, particularly in hydrogen technology. Northern Ostrobothnia has the potential to produce up to 10% of the EU’s green hydrogen, making the region a key player in the green transition.

Oulu is home to transformative projects such as Verso Energy’s planned hydrogen plant, the H2Koulu initiative for hydrogen education at Oulu University, and Nordic Hydrogen Week, which have positioned the city as a hub for sustainable energy solutions.

Arctic Hydrogen: Nordic Solutions to Common Barriers
Thursday, 30 January at 14:30 – 16:00 (UTC +1) with Mayor Ari Alatossava

Cultural Climate Change: Oulu2026

As the European Capital of Culture 2026, Oulu is leading a cultural climate change. This initiative is about more than art—it connects people, broadens perspectives, and reshapes how cities and communities take decisions. With thousands of events, performances, and experiences planned, Oulu2026 invites the world to experience the transformative power of culture. Hear the call of culture and explore the Oulu2026 program!

Reimagining the Arctic: Cultivating Vibrant Communities for the Future

Thursday, 30 January at 14:30 – 16:00 (UTC +1) with Anne Rännäli-Kontturi

Join Arctic Frontiers Online or on site

The Arctic Frontiers conference runs from 27–30 January in Tromsø and offers a digital participation option. Online registration costs 2000 NOK, providing access to the entire conference program from anywhere in the world.

Learn more and explore the full program at: ArcticFrontiers.com

Oulu is ready to share its vision for a sustainable, prosperous Arctic. Join us in Tromsø—or online—and let’s shape the future together!