The world changes for those who dare to think bigger. Why on earth do Switzerland's Zurich, Luxembourg or Singapore get all the attention as hubs for international business? What if we turned our eyes to Kauniainen — and created here the most attractive centre in the Nordic countries for the group's parent companies?
Sounds big? Well, it must sound! This is not a “small business idea”, but an idea that could raise Kauniainen to a whole new level — and at the same time on the map of the entire Finnish business scene.
Finland is the happiest country in the world — again!
According to the UN-sponsored The World Happiness report, Finland is once again the happiest country in the world. Eighth consecutive win! This is a brand advantage that can't be bought. But how do we really take advantage of this status? Can we make Finland not only a happy but also an international business hub?
Kauniainen could be the perfect destination for international groups looking for a stable, smart and efficient location for their parent companies. Not as a tax haven, but as a centre for quality government and top-level expertise.
Why beautiful?
There are places in the world that are small but impressive. Beautiful could be just like that!
1. Exclusivity and high profile
Kauniainen is already one of the most prestigious residential areas in Finland. Why not make it a meeting place for the corporate elite as well?
2. Smart structures, no unnecessary red tape
International companies want efficiency and transparency. Kauniainen could offer just that: a place where decision-making flows without unnecessary kinks.
3. Finland's position as a gateway to the world
EU membership, strong links with the Nordic countries, a stable business environment — these are advantages that can be exploited much better than at present.
4. Happiness = Attraction
When an international business leader is thinking about where he wants to live and work, he's not just looking at tax rates. He thinks about quality of life, safety and well-being. And in these, Finland — and especially Kauniainen — are top notch.
Concrete steps — how do you do this?
Vision alone is not enough, a plan is also needed. Here are a few ideas:
1. Kauniainen Global Business Residency
Exclusive program where international companies can transfer their parent company to Kauniainen and at the same time receive VIP-level services:
- End-to-end services tailored to families: International families receive full support for settling down, school arrangements and navigating the housing market.
- Premium support services for businesses: Fast and smooth administrative transition, networking opportunities and expert consultation.
- Exclusive workspaces and events: Opportunity to participate in high-level business events and executive networks.
2. Kauniainen Holding Hub
Creating the most attractive administrative centre in the Nordic countries:
- World-class legal services and tax planning experts.
- Finland's most attractive business network for large companies and investors.
- VIP services for board meetings and group management.
3. Global Boardroom Kauniainen
Develop Kauniainen the number one choice for business leaders for board meetings, decision-making and international strategy meetings.
- International companies can register their governments and decision-making organizations in Kauniainen.
- Exclusive meeting facilities and bespoke services for top-level decision making.
- This brings not only business but also high-profile business tourism to the area.
How from now on?
All big visions start with bold debate. This is not a mere thought game - this could be a reality if we dare to look beyond traditional models.
Now is not the time to think about what not can do. Now it's time to think about what could do.
What if Kauniainen were the Zurich of the North? Or better yet - Beautiful could be something completely new. Something the world has yet to see.
Let's think a little bigger again. Or actually, a lot bigger than that.
READ NEXT: What could this vision actually look like in practice?
I wrote a follow-up blog where I outline three concrete steps that could start Kauniainen’s journey toward becoming a new Nordic hub for international business.
Read the full follow-up here:
Melina Näätänen – Kauniainen käytännössä – miltä visio voisi oikeasti näyttää?
