Finnpartnership’s Business Partnership Support terms will be updated as of 1 January 2026. The changes will adjust support levels and make the application process clearer and more versatile. The aim is to simplify and harmonise the conditions so that applying for support is easier and companies can plan their projects more strategically.

What’s changing?

• Support percentages
  • The maximum share of eligible project costs covered by the support will change. From 2026 onwards, the support will cover 30–85% of project costs, depending on the project type, company size and target country.
    • For example, SMEs may receive 50–85%, while large companies will be eligible for 30–50%.
  • Full details and up-to-date percentages will be published on Finnpartnership’s website. Please note that updates will be made gradually over the turn of the year, so figures may not yet be correct on all pages.

• Expanded innovation funding criteria
  • Innovation funding can now also be applied for if your company’s R&D project has received funding from an ELY Centre (Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment). Previously, only projects with Business Finland funding were supported.
• Local innovation partner requirement adjusted
  • In innovation funding projects, services purchased from a local innovation partner must account for at least 40% of project costs in phases 2–5 (previously 50%). This change gives companies more flexibility in structuring project costs and enables more diverse implementation options in emerging markets.
• ODA pilot’s end-customer can be a local public sector entity
  • Going forward, an ODA pilot customer can be a public sector entity in the target country. Previously, the conditions required the intended customer to be an ODA-eligible international organisation.
  • If the intended customer is a local public authority, the ODA-eligible organisation will take on a different role in the project. The applicant must still have a signed letter of intent with the ODA-eligible organisation regarding the pilot.
• Applicants must be registered in Finland
  • From 2026 onwards, only companies and other entities registered in Finland – or consortia formed by several such organisations – can apply for support.

Important info for those applying in 2025

If you want your application to be processed under the 2025 terms, you must submit it via the Ministry for Foreign Affairs’ e-service by 31 December 2025. The basic information form must be submitted by 18 December 2025.

Finnpartnership helps companies spread their wings in developing markets

The purpose of Business Partnership Support is to encourage companies to start sustainable business even when the target market is still unfamiliar and carries higher risks. Finnpartnership continues to stand alongside Finnish companies as a risk-sharing partner and network builder.

Expert advice and guidance

Our experts are happy to help with any questions – contact us at fp@finnpartnership.fi or call the switchboard on +358 (0)9 348 434 (please mention you are calling for Finnpartnership).