The businesses in the metropolitan area play a key role in the region’s economic growth and development. Espoo’s general zoning plan has identified several crucial areas for improvement that can enhance the business environment and attract new investments. Saija Äikäs, Espoo’s director at Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce, highlights key municipal election themes for businesses.
1. Ensuring Business-Friendly Zoning: Locations, Logistics, and Public Transport
The upcoming Espoo Master Plan 2060 takes a long-term approach to the city’s development. Ensuring that Espoo remains attractive to businesses requires securing commercial areas and ensuring smooth logistics and transportation. Companies expect the city to invest in infrastructure and traffic arrangements to support efficient mobility and freight transport. Long-term planning for Espoo’s growth is at the core of the zoning strategy.
As a growing city, Espoo needs a comprehensive zoning plan that supports vitality and business opportunities. The draft plan anticipates 200,000 new residents and up to 90,000 new jobs by 2060. It designates business areas in attractive locations such as Keilaniemi and Leppävaara, while also reserving space for industrial activities on the outskirts of urban structures.
The general plan outlines major land use guidelines, including key public transport solutions. Businesses are particularly interested in new rail routes, such as Matinkylä–Espoo Center and Kivenlahti–Kauklahti, as companies tend to prefer locations along railway lines. Rail connections offer higher capacity and permanence compared to bus routes, making them more attractive for long-term business planning.
In addition, Espoo has a strong tradition of collaboration between the education sector and business. The zoning plan accommodates the development of new educational campuses in well-connected locations, such as near metro stations.
2. Espoo’s Role in Advancing Knowledge Hubs
The city must prioritize economic vitality and business-friendly policies. In practice, this means integrating business needs into decision-making and city services. Companies expect Espoo to invest in education and research, as these provide a strong foundation for innovation and new business opportunities.
Collaboration with Aalto University, VTT, and major corporations is crucial for developing knowledge hubs. Businesses seek flexible and efficient permit processes and support for their growth and development. The city plays a key role in fostering major innovation ecosystems, such as Kvanttinova in Otaniemi and Kiviruukki in Espoonlahti. Additionally, Microsoft is establishing a data center in Northern Espoo.
Espoo stands out among European cities in patent applications, producing the highest number per capita.
Espoo stands out among European cities in patent applications, producing the highest number per capita. The city generates about half of the Helsinki Stock Exchange’s total revenue, and 53% of its workforce has higher education degrees. This wealth of expertise creates an ideal environment for innovation and attracts international startups. One concrete example is Espoo Game Hub, which supports the gaming industry and brings new companies and jobs to the area. Businesses hope the city will continue supporting innovation and new business models, fostering a dynamic and competitive business environment.
3. Developing the Business Espoo Network
Since early 2025, municipalities have taken on a key role in organizing employment services. As a result, TE Services (public employment services) have become municipal responsibilities, allowing cities to design service delivery models that best suit their needs. Espoo and Kauniainen form a joint employment area, with some services provided in collaboration with Helsinki and Vantaa.
Going forward, all business and employer services will be available through the Business Espoo network. Enhancing this network is crucial to ensuring that companies receive the necessary support and guidance. Business Espoo offers mentoring for starting a business or growing an existing one. The network’s business advisory services helped establish around 500 new companies in Espoo last year.
Businesses create jobs, tax revenue, and the foundation of municipal vitality. Espoo-based companies are ready to grow and develop—as long as they are provided with a competitive business environment.
This article was translated into English by an AI and revised by communications professionals at Helsinki Region Chamber of Commerce. Please find the original Finnish article here.
