Various ecosystems play an important role in economic development and innovation activities. New
innovations are key to economic regeneration. The rapid increase in the volume and availability of information,
the evolution of communication technologies, and the globalisation of value networks have
changed the way innovations are created. These developments have increased the importance of cooperation
and openness in innovation activities. The refinement of ideas into new products and services
increasingly takes place through network-based interaction between multiple actors. These tight-knit,
interdependent networks are called ecosystems.
The development and internal dynamics of ecosystems are examined in this report based on four case
subjects, all of which are ecosystems of national economic importance (Forestry, Digital Business,
Healthcare, and CleanTech). In addition, the report examines the role of different types of enterprise
services from the point of view of the development of ecosystems through national and international
case studies.
The findings of the report support the view that well-functioning economic and innovation ecosystems
have been created and continue to be created in Finland. The public sector plays an important role in
their development. However, in order for it to continue effectively supporting these ecosystems in the
near future, the ability to regenerate and enhanced ecosystemic thinking are needed.
In particular, services aimed at enterprises must be transformed into ecosystemic services. The growth
service and regional reform which is currently under way offers an excellent opportunity for reviewing
the enterprise service system as a whole in order to improve its ability to meet the challenges and aspects
of ecosystem development which are examined in this report.
Publications of the Govenrment´s analysis, assessment and research activities 28/2017
Team: Antti Kaihovaara, Katri Haila, Kirsi Noro, Vesa Salminen, Valtteri Härmälä, Kimmo Halme, Kari Mikkelä, Veli-Pekka Saarnivaara, Henrik Pekkala
Related Policy Brief: 15/2016; What are ecosystems and how can they be developed?