Enhanced ERA

Enhanced ERA cross-border online training boosted rural entrepreneurship

As part of the Enhanced ERA project, six cross-border online training sessions were conducted to strengthen rural entrepreneurship through knowledge-sharing, inspiration, group discussions, and practical tools. The training focused on key aspects of rural entrepreneurship, guided by experts from the University of Helsinki Ruralia Institute and the Estonian University of Life Sciences. It also featured entrepreneurs from Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Sweden, and Åland, creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment aimed at developing sustainable and innovative rural businesses.

The sessions covered a wide range of topics essential for aspiring rural entrepreneurs:

  • Introduction to Entrepreneurship – Explored different pathways into entrepreneurship with examples such as Lillukkametsä (Finland), which offers nature-based services, and Klaara-Manni, a family-run accommodation business in Estonia.
  • Business Foundations – Focused on key partners, resources, and activities, featuring case studies like La Wida, a multi-service company combining hairdressing, event planning, and administration, and Gästhem Jomala Gård, a guesthouse located in a former boarding school in Åland.
  • Product Development – Highlighted innovative approaches to developing rural products and services, featuring the stories of Öfvergård from Åland, known for its apple safaris, and Göran Hånell, a Swedish entrepreneur offering boat adventures, music events, and culinary experiences.
  • Financial Management – Provided practical advice on managing finances, illustrated by RemoteNow Club, an Estonian consulting company operating from a remote forest location.
  • Interpretation – Emphasized the power of visitor engagement, with guest speakers including Aivar Ruukel on Soomaa’s traditional log boats, Madline Arbid from Söderhamns Museum on cultural event organization, and Wanderlust, an Estonian nature interpretation company.
  • Marketing & Segmentation – Focused on reaching the right audiences and building strong brands, featuring Valmiermuiža Brewery from Latvia and Lakeuden Hunaja, a Finnish honey producer.
  • Marketing & segmentation – focused on reaching the right audiences and building strong brands, featuring Valmiermuiža Brewery from Latvia and Lakeuden Hunaja, a Finnish honey producer.

In addition to expert lectures and entrepreneur stories, participants actively engaged in group discussions, sharing ideas and reflecting on how to apply their new knowledge to their own contexts. The training showcased how small businesses rooted in local identity can grow sustainably and creatively while also fostering valuable cross-border connections.

Photo: Indrek Maripuu presenting RemoteNow Club, Estonian consulting company operating from a remote forest location.