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This autumn, the Business Whisperers campaign connected with 516 companies in Joensuu, identifying needs to support business development. Discussions with entrepreneurs revealed recurring themes such as ownership transitions, recruitment and employer-related issues, business growth and development, digital solutions, and financing and investment needs.
The Business Whisperers campaign offered free, practical support to entrepreneurs at various stages of their business operations. Business Whisperers provided assistance in areas such as business development, recruitment, entrepreneur well-being, and premises-related matters. Additionally, feedback from entrepreneurs was directly communicated to decision-makers.
- Entrepreneurs were guided to utilize various services, such as recruitment support from Luotsi Joensuu and the North Karelia TE Office, as well as Business Joensuu’s free business services, including employer and growth coaching, product and service development programs, and services for investment financing, ownership transitions, and support for new entrepreneurs, summarized Marjatta Rummukainen from the City of Joensuu's employment services.
During campaign weeks 35, 40, and 45, companies were contacted through business visits, phone calls, and text messages. Entrepreneurs were also invited to themed events, such as "AI in Business" breakfast meetings and public procurement clinics.
- The campaign once again demonstrated how essential it is to listen to entrepreneurs and promote open dialogue with them. Businesses of all sizes and individuals interested in entrepreneurship are encouraged to reach out to us anytime, even outside the campaign period, said Satu-Minna Piiroinen, Development Manager at Business Joensuu.
During the campaign, 28 development suggestions and messages were collected from companies and forwarded to decision-makers in the City of Joensuu to enhance the city's business-friendliness and vitality.
- Joensuu strives to be Finland's easiest city for businesses, and Business Whisperers plays a central role in facilitating dialogue between the city and its entrepreneurs. A business-friendly city promotes open communication and ensures seamless conditions for both new businesses and the growth of existing ones. We sincerely thank all entrepreneurs for their valuable input and conversations, stated Tomi Haring, CEO of Business Joensuu.
The campaign was a collaborative effort between the City of Joensuu, its Employment Services Luotsi Joensuu, Business Joensuu, and the North Karelia TE Office.
Entrepreneurs can contact Business Joensuu and other regional organizations for advice and support in their business operations. Business Joensuu’s Business On-call service is available on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at +358 10 419 8011, providing quick and professional assistance on all entrepreneurship-related matters.
For further information:
Marjatta Rummukainen, Employment Services, Luotsi Joensuu
+358 50 478 0795, marjatta.rummukainen@joensuu.fi
Satu-Minna Piiroinen, Business Joensuu
+358 400 287 787, satu-minna.piiroinen@businessjoensuu.fi
