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Agencies Launch New Business Seminars |
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By Vytautas Kraujalis
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Wednesday, 04 February 2009 |
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 Thinking of starting your own business? The Oulu Business Agency and Uusiyrityskeskus (New Business Centre) are offering a new series of seminars for English-speaking expats. With advice on establishing yourself, how to start, and where to get capital, the first of the four seminars took place on January 23, but more are planned for 2009.
During the four hour seminar, more than 20 participants heard various presentations on different topics.
Seppo Kaijalainen, one of the organisers, introduced entrepreneurship as such and analysed what the personality of a successful businessman or businesswoman. Giving examples from his own former business career Mr. Kaijalainen gave advice on what to consider before deciding to jump into the ‘shark-filled’ business waters.
He also introduced the ‘starttiraha’ (startup money) system provided by Oulu employment office.
Mikko Sipilä, the financial manager of Osuuspankki Oulu branch, presented services Osuuspankki offer to small businesses and discussed the bank’s history and structure. Other seminar speakers included representatives from Finnvera, the business loan company, and the Oulu Vocational College.
After the seminar Seija Argillander, who helped to organise the event, told 65 Degrees North that such occasions help expats to get crucial information, advice and contacts for starting up in business.
“Oulu city is supporting new business ideas. It has realized that it is very useful to involve the international side of Oulu and that new international companies would come to Oulu area and do business here. We are creating our network all the time and that’s why these seminars are very important,” she commented.
According to Mr. Kaijalainen, the most important aspect to consider before starting a business is to examine your own success factors. “It is not a question of just filling up an application form and registering as an entrepreneur. Main thing is how you make the business, what are your possibilities, chances, what is the situation in the market in general and which are your advantages that will help to make your business a success.”
His main advice for foreign entrepreneurs in Oulu is to learn Finnish.
“It doesn’t matter if you are Finnish or a foreigner, the main thing is to have a good idea, that you speak Finnish and understand Finnish culture, and how we handle business here.”
The date of the next seminar will appear in 65 Degrees North.
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