Smart Specialisation in Rural Areas Arctic Smartness: A case from Finnish Lapland

Smart specialisation is a concept which the European Union (EU) has launched in the financing of research and regional development projects in its member countries. This chapter studies the features of smart specialisation in Finnish Lapland, where smart specialisation has been launched using Arctic Specialisation as its theme. This chapter studies the ways that actors in Lapland have adapted and developed the concept of smart specialisation. The research material is based on the underlying projects associated with the theme of smart specialisation in Finnish Lapland. In the Arctic Smartness Program (ASP), the idea of smart specialisation is connected to entrepreneurship, working life and smart career planning. Furthermore, the focus in development work is on the natural resources of Lapland and sustainable development. Increasing the value of Lapland’s products is one of the main aims of Arctic Smartness. Results and benefits will arise from cooperation with actors and experts. The main role of Arctic Specialisation is in the hands of future entrepreneurs. How can university students benefit from the ASP and from other projects focused on Arctic Specialisation?