Dialogue builds the business areas of the future
Supporting business growth, investments and new company establishments requires proactive collaboration between businesses, the real estate sector and the city. The Commercial Premises and Business Plots Information Event organised by Business Kuopio on 9 September 2026 brought together these stakeholders to discuss Kuopio’s growth, the business areas of the future and the evolving needs of companies. The event was opened by Timo Antikainen, Director of Economic Development for the City of Kuopio.
The event sparked lively discussion on Kuopio’s growth, the development of business areas and future investment opportunities. The message from participants was clear: there is a strong need for this type of shared forum for discussion in the years ahead.
During the event, participants explored topics including the city’s development outlook, land policy, the development of business areas and current land-use planning matters. Attendees were also introduced to the Kuopio Region Business Plots and Premises Service, which enables companies to search for business premises and plots while also marketing their own available properties.
Panel discussion highlighted future needs
One of the most engaging parts of the event was the panel discussion, where Mika Paavilainen from Rakennusliike Soimu, Aleksi Kuokkanen from Kesko and Mika Tusa from Rakennusliike Lapti discussed future business land requirements and the role of the city’s land policy programme.
The discussion emphasised the importance of predictability. Companies need early information about future business areas, planning processes and growth opportunities in order to make long-term investment decisions with confidence.
“One of Kuopio’s strengths is the ability to bring people together around the same table and have open discussions. The better we understand the future needs of businesses, the better we can create the conditions for growth across the region,” says Mika Raatikainen, Business Specialist at Business Kuopio.
Shared dialogue supports investment and growth
Participants particularly praised the timely presentations, the panel discussion and the opportunity to exchange views with representatives of both the city and the private sector. Feedback also highlighted a desire for more information on business areas, development opportunities, zoning processes and the possibilities for companies to establish and expand their operations in Kuopio.
At the conclusion of the event, participants expressed a wish for the gathering to become an annual meeting point. The idea received broad support, and the Commercial Premises and Business Plots Information Event will be organised again in 2027.
“Kuopio’s growth is built on cooperation. When businesses, real estate professionals and the city share information and perspectives, we are better able to identify new opportunities and advance investments more effectively. That is why it is important to continue this dialogue in the years to come,” Raatikainen says.
More information on available business plots and premises in the Kuopio region can be found through the Kuopio Region Business Plots and Premises Service.
Business Kuopio would like to thank all participants for their active contribution and valuable feedback. Ongoing dialogue between businesses, real estate sector stakeholders and the city strengthens Kuopio’s vitality and supports future growth and investments throughout the region.
