Finnish companies that received Finnpartnership support in 2021 have demonstrated that responsible business is a powerful driver of development and well-being – despite the challenges posed by the pandemic.

COVID-19 affected both the number of applications and the progress of projects in 2021. Although overall business activity was more modest and the disbursed support – €1.6 million – was the lowest in ten years, Finnish companies still managed to achieve significant development impacts.

The 2025 development impact report provides an overview of 47 projects funded in 2021. These projects were implemented between 2021 and 2024 across 28 countries and 13 different sectors.

Key figures from the report

• 8 new companies established in emerging markets
• 23 long-term cooperation agreements with local partners
• €3.3 million invested in projects
• 316 jobs created, including 131 brand-new jobs
• 31 new market entries for Finnish companies in emerging markets

Finnpartnership support enables risk-taking and growth

Business Partnership Support has been crucial for many projects. As many as 86% of respondents considered the support essential or nearly essential for project implementation. It enabled market research, business model testing, and business start-up even during challenging times such as the pandemic.

Promoting sustainable development and gender equality

The impact goes beyond economics. According to the report, 51% of projects promoted gender equality by employing women, offering gender-supportive products and services, and improving working conditions for women. A total of 77 women were directly employed through these projects, and with follow-up projects, the number rose to 310.

Nearly half of the projects also provided training for local staff – altogether 1,725 people received training, strengthening skills and improving future employment opportunities.

Environmental and market impacts

Sustainability is also reflected in environmental actions: 28% of projects implemented measures to improve environmental performance, such as adopting eco-friendly production methods and obtaining environmental certifications. Several projects have strengthened local market and production structures, introduced new products, and improved infrastructure.

Examples of impactful projects

• Digizen developed a digital identification service enabling banking in remote villages in Papua where traditional ID documents are rare.
• Corrsy established a subsidiary in Iraq to provide high-quality and accessible private education.
• 3DBear and HAMK are developing simulation-based learning environments in Tanzania to improve the quality and accessibility of vocational education.

Responsible growth

The Impact Report shows that Finnish companies can lead the way in responsible international business. The program’s support enables long-term growth, innovation, and sustainable development.