New report: Regional collaboration on talent attraction in North Savo requires clear leadership

A new report provides an up-to-date view of talent needs and collaboration readiness among businesses in North Savo. Based on interviews and extensive survey data, the report shows that the shortage of skilled workers has not disappeared—in fact, forecasts suggest it is likely to grow. The report reveals a clear desire among companies for more coordinated regional collaboration to attract talent. The study was commissioned by the Talent First project and carried out by Männikkömetsä Oy.

Hidden talent shortage beneath economic trends

Although the economic situation in North Savo was weak in 2024, the report emphasizes that conditions may shift quickly as the economy recovers. An aging population and the outmigration of young people from smaller municipalities are expected to intensify competition for skilled workers in the coming years. Especially in micro and small to medium-sized enterprises, vocationally trained workers are needed, while larger employers seek highly educated professionals in fields such as technology, food production, and health and social services.

International talent remains an untapped resource

While international recruitment is growing—particularly in the Kuopio region—many small businesses still see it as overly burdensome. The greatest barriers are language requirements, limited integration services, and bureaucracy. For international talent, the availability of services in the work community, such as employment opportunities for spouses and English-language everyday life, plays a critical role in both attraction and retention.

According to the report, companies consider educational institutions the most important channel for reaching new talent. They call for more work-life-oriented training and a more active role for schools in regional collaboration. International students are seen as a potential solution to the skills shortage, but practical implementation still needs development.

A Shared vision and clear coordination are key

Although collaboration is already taking place at many levels across North Savo, businesses are calling for stronger coordination that spans the entire region. At present, activities are fragmented and often focused on a small number of recurring participants. The lack of a clear lead actor makes it difficult for companies to engage and commit.
“What companies want most is clarity. For example, a single coordinating body that brings together municipalities, educational institutions, and the business sector could significantly improve talent availability in North Savo. A shared direction and concrete coordination play a vital role,” says Reetta Airaksinen, Project Manager of the Talent First project.

The report recommends that North Savo appoint a lead organization to bring together companies, municipalities, employment areas, and educational institutions. A shared goal or public declaration could serve as a concrete starting point. It is also important to ensure balance between different parts of the region—smaller municipalities must not be left behind the larger centers.

Read the report (in Finnish): Talent needs and collaboration in North Savo_2025

This report is part of the Talent First project’s efforts to improve the availability of skilled labor in North Savo. The study was conducted by Männikkömetsä Oy in April 2025. Talent First is a project co-funded by the European Union. It includes 12 partners from North Savo and is administered by the City of Kuopio.