New report from E2 Research: The regional cooperation model offers solutions to skill shortages in leading and network companies

The regional cooperation model is grounded in close collaboration between companies and ecosystem partners in recruitment, education, and communication. At the same time, companies facing a shortage of skilled labour need to develop their own practices, for example, in recruitment, collaboration with educational institutions, and retention.

These findings are presented in E2 Research’s report “Always Recruiting – The Regional Cooperation Model as a Solution to Skill Shortages in Leading and Network Companies.” The model introduced in the report has been developed in cooperation with companies and stakeholders of the Vaasa region energy cluster, but it can also be applied in other clusters across Finland.

This is the final report for the International Workforce for Energy Sector Companies in Ostrobothnia project. The project was jointly developed by E2 Research and Wärtsilä Finland, with Work in Finland also participating. The work was funded by the AEL Foundation.

The cooperation model originated in the Vaasa region, where there is a need to ensure sufficient skills for both the region’s leading companies and their network companies. When the work began at the start of 2025, the primary task was to identify region-specific recruitment challenges and previously employed solutions to them. At the same time, the partners’ readiness for cooperation was explored.

“Skill shortages are a shared problem and are best solved collaboratively. Leading companies cannot succeed if their network companies lack skilled personnel. Circulating the same experts between companies won’t solve the issue – we simply need more skilled professionals to move to the region,” says Kai Kamila from Wärtsilä Finland.

“The attractiveness of both companies and the region grows when they communicate jointly to international professionals. When a jobseeker is presented with the wide career opportunities of the ecosystem, accepting a job offer appears more appealing and secure,” explains Laura Lindeman from Work in Finland.

A model intended for use across Finland

The regional cooperation model created in the project enables leading companies to support their network companies in addressing skill shortages in new ways.

“The model was created in cooperation with leading and network companies as well as ecosystem partners. Company interviews provided insights into the companies’ needs and their readiness for cooperation. In workshops, we developed solutions together. In addition, we received feedback on the model from industry actors in the regions of Ostrobothnia, Pirkanmaa, Uusimaa, and Lapland,” says Mari K. Niemi, who led the project at E2 Research.

Recruitment, education, advocacy and communication at the core of cooperation

The regional cooperation model is based on the observation that skill shortages should be addressed simultaneously on several fronts, as their causes are often a combination of many factors.

Both leading and network companies can participate in the recruitment and training collaboration, as well as in communication and advocacy efforts portrayed in the model. Stakeholders from universities and education providers, entrepreneurial organisations, or municipal employment services may also be involved.

The model also highlights the importance of action within companies themselves. By addressing specific internal issues, a company can strengthen its position amid skill shortages.

Regional analysis, open dialogue and coordination key to success

“When applying the model, it is essential to identify the characteristics, strengths, and development needs of the region and its companies. This helps to understand which specific challenges must be addressed to secure a sufficiently skilled workforce,” Niemi explains.

When initiating cooperation, it is essential to recognise the different operational cultures and needs of the parties. Experiencing the benefits of collaboration motivates companies to engage in new ways of working. Niemi therefore encourages open dialogue and consistent coordination of cooperation: “In circumstances where competitors are encouraged to collaborate, it is important to speak openly about uncertainties and agree on principles of engagement. Ensuring the facilitation of cooperation makes the work long-term.”

Further information and publication event

E2 Research carried out the project during 2025. The work was led by Dr., Docent Mari K. Niemi and funded by the AEL Foundation. The project team consisted of Dr., Docent Ville Pitkänen and MSSc Aino Heikkilä. The project’s communications were coordinated by MA Roosa Veijola.

The publication event of the research will be held as an online seminar on the Teams platform on 2 December from 10:00 to 11:00. Further information about the programme and registration is available here (The event will be held in Finnish).

Further information and interviews:

Mari K. Niemi, Director, E2 Research
mari.k.niemi@e2.fi
+44 773 7161 944

The report will be available on 2 December at 05:30 at e2.fi and can also be requested in advance from Roosa Veijola at roosa.veijola@e2.fi.