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Sitra, the Technology Industries and VTT propose several actions for Finland and the EU to strengthen growth and security. The proposals are contained in Critical Digital Tech from Finland: Driving Growth and Security in Europe, published on 20 May 2025.
The publication suggests that Finland should invest in cooperation through, for example, a Critical Technologies Forum and a training programme for decision-makers.
Finland has strong expertise in digital technologies, but to succeed in an uncertain environment and increasing competition we need more and more strategic cooperation and smooth decision-making.
– Finnish innovative cooperation models, capabilities and cutting-edge research can be spread and embedded throughout Europe. We have the potential to anticipate the impact of technological developments, strategically allocate resources and act as a thought leader internationally, as long as we cooperate more decisively across sectors, says Laura Halenius, Senior Advisor at Sitra.
In their joint publication Sitra, Technology Industries of Finland and VTT argue that, the EU must allocate a larger share of its budget to the development and deployment of critical technologies. In parallel, the structures supporting innovation and the ability to attract top talent need to be strengthened consistently both in Finland and in the EU.
Critical technologies are key areas identified by the EU, such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors and quantum computing, which are crucial for economic security. Economic security refers to the EU’s ability to protect its economy from disruption, external threats and over-dependence.
Finland has strong expertise in digital technologies identified by the EU as critical
Both security issues and business competitiveness increasingly rely on strategic technologies and the ability to develop and apply them.
– The EU provides funding, opens markets, and shapes regulations for critical technologies, creating opportunities for companies and research institutions in Finland as well. It is essential that EU actions prioritise excellence rather than levelling regional disparities. In innovation funding, the EU could learn from Finland’s successful lead company model, which ensures corporate commitment to the innovation process, says Joonas Mikkilä, Senior Advisor at Technology Industries of Finland.
The changed global situation and the digital-green transition have increased the pressure to strengthen capabilities, especially in digital technologies.
– Finland has carved out a pivotal role on Europe’s technology map, showing how smaller nations can lead by example. We demonstrate how the convergence of technologies can accelerate development across sectors. One example is the integration of CSC’s LUMI supercomputer and VTT’s quantum computer. We must create and seize more of these opportunities for cross-disciplinary and cross-sectoral collaboration, says Jenny Hasu, Manager of Digital Technologies at VTT.
The joint publication offers recommendations for both the EU and Finland to leverage critical technologies in strengthening growth and security. You can also read the English summary.
More information
Laura Halenius, laura.halenius@sitra.fi, +358 294 618 303
Joonas Mikkilä, joonas.mikkila@teknologiateollisuus.fi, +358 45 129 6791
Jenny Hasu, jenny.hasu@vtt.fi, +358 40 658 3510
