KEUKE'S SOTEUTTAMO INSPIRED NETWORKING

DELAY OF THE HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES REFORM LIMITS COMPANIES’ INVESTMENTS AND DEVELOPMENT

Health and social service providers are excited to network and create new service models together. The Soteuttamo program carried out by Keski-Uudenmaan Kehittämiskeskus Oy in cooperation with Sitra reached more than 191 companies and 350 people operating in the sector in Central Uusimaa over 15 months.

– The health and social services industry is changing and that means new opportunities for entrepreneurs in the sector. Soteuttamo was intended to bring the sector’s operators together to network and find new ideas and partners, says Elina Pekkarinen, the CEO of Keuke.

The uncertainty caused by the delay of the health and social services reform is evident in new developments and investment in particular.

– Whether the reform will happen and what shape it will take is still unclear. Therefore, many entrepreneurs are waiting for decisions. At this stage, large investments or entries into new markets are avoided

DATES AND GENUINE COOPERATION

A total of 11 events were organized under the Soteuttamo banner, which focused primarily on networking in addition to inspiring contents. During the events, operators in the sector networked with various providers of support services and technologies.

– We wanted to use specialist lectures to stimulate the companies to think ways of distinguishing themselves in opening markets and their place among other companies and service providers, Pekkarinen says.

Soteuttamo also provided Keuke the opportunity to meet and create contacts with companies in the health and social services industry.

– Cooperation between companies can, for example, provide smaller companies and operators the opportunity to access even major calls for tender. Thus, smaller operators do not have to settle for the current market just because of their size.

– A network provides more competence, customers, credibility, and visibility to each operator. Therefore, you should focus on the new opportunities provided by cooperation instead of thinking that it takes something away from you.

The Soteuttamo activities were concluded at the end of 2018. The development of a network for the operators in the sector will continue in Central Uusimaa.

– We see a lot of potential in developing the sector. Keusote, the joint authority of six municipalities established in Central Uusimaa will most likely provide its services in any event under a multi-producer concept. This will certainly activate companies to develop their services further. And Keuke is happy to participate in this development using the entirety of its skillset.