Michigan and Finland have renewed their economic partnership, extending a memorandum of understanding that connects regional economies, businesses and research institutions.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer originally worked with Finnish representatives to establish the economic agreement with Finland in 2020. The renewed partnership will continue for another five years, focusing on bringing new technology through collaboration between world-class researchers, businesses and industry leaders.
The partnership builds on existing connections between Michigan and Finland. Several Finnish companies already operate in Michigan, including telecommunications giant Nokia, elevator manufacturer Kone, forestry equipment maker Ponsse, sauna company Harvia and packaging firm Huhtamaki.
Finland’s Ambassador to the United States Leena-Kaisa Mikkola said Finland values its partnership with Michigan to create a dynamic and innovative ecosystem that results in resilient local economies.
The memorandum encourages collaboration between government agencies, research institutions and industry partners by leveraging strengths in each region. Areas of focus include innovation, maritime industry, defense and business development.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula maintains particularly strong connections to Finland. Two sister city relationships exist in the Upper Peninsula: Marquette partnered with Kajaani in 1997, and Hancock maintains ties with Porvoo. In the Lower Peninsula, Cadillac has a relationship with Rovaniemi.
The partnership also promotes joint research projects between universities and colleges. Michigan Technological University in Houghton was recently elevated to R-1 research institution status in 2025, potentially offering new opportunities for Finnish researchers and students. Michigan State University’s Department of Forestry has also established relationships with Finnish academic partners, including seminars, joint webinars and academic exchanges during the past five years.
The renewed agreement facilitates direct contacts and partnerships through visits, workshops, meetings and other mutually beneficial activities. Both regions can share and develop best practices for entering new markets. This year could prove especially significant for the partnership as Hancock holds the Finno-Ugric Capital of Culture title. The celebration will invite the diaspora to the Keweenaw Peninsula throughout the year, with a special celebration in June during Juhannus.
Learn more about the renewed Memorandum of Understanding between Michgian and Finland here.
