Nordregio is an international research institute established by the Nordic Council of Ministers

January 2019 – January 2020

Digitalisation in rural and sparsely populated areas – joint Nordic-Baltic learning

The Nordic‐Baltic Region is at the forefront of digitalisation in Europe. Despite overall positive development, the impact of digitalisation on economy and society is unequal; with rural and sparsely populated areas often lagging behind with respect to the availability of digital infrastructure and the adoption of digital technologies.

The project will investigate how to facilitate uptake of digital technologies and innovations by SMEs in rural and sparsely populated areas. It will explore the challenges and potential opportunities facing rural regions and their enterprises in the context of digitalisation and identify good examples of measures and policies to support digital transformation of rural businesses.

The ultimate aim is to inspire Nordic and Baltic regions, their rural communities and rural enterprises to make the most out of digital opportunities and provide insights that will assist policy makers in creating an enabling environment for this work.

Other partners:
Local stakeholders in Nordic countries and 1 Baltic region

Client

Nordic Council of Ministers

Project manager

Senior Research Advisor (on parental leave)

RESEARCH

Explore more research projects on regional development and planning

January 2022 – December 2027

DigiHub

October 2024 – April 2026

Planners’ Forum