Finland’s success as the world’s happiest country is built on societal trust, equality, and collaboration, driving innovation and business.
For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world, according to the United Nations World Happiness Report. Experts attribute this continued success to the country’s high levels of equality, political and civil freedom, and societal stability. These foundations create a culture of trust and mutual respect, which fosters both international cooperation and a thriving business environment.
A Society Built on Shared Success
Finland’s strong sense of community and collective progress is deeply embedded in its education system and workplace culture. Schools emphasise teamwork and problem-solving, while flat hierarchies in organisations encourage open communication and participation.
A robust social safety net also allows individuals to take risks without fear, enabling innovation and entrepreneurship. Unlike in highly competitive business environments, Finland’s startup ecosystem thrives on collaboration over competition. With around 3,800 startups, Finnish businesses often support one another, working together to build long-term success. This approach has led to the creation of over ten unicorn companies, many of which originated in academic research.
Innovation Through Public-Private Collaboration
At the heart of Finland’s innovation-driven economy is a strong partnership between government, research institutes, universities, and businesses. This cooperative approach has positioned Finland as a leader in education, digitalisation, sustainability, and good governance.
A key driver of this innovation is the Leading Companies Programme, a scheme run by Business Finland. The initiative challenges global companies to take on ambitious research and development projects while encouraging collaboration between companies of all sizes. The programme has already supported 400 businesses and 400 research projects, with opportunities open to international companies operating in Finland.
Finland also has ambitious plans to further strengthen its R&D sector. By 2030, the country aims to increase research and development spending to 4% of GDP, further cementing its position as a global leader in innovation.
A Culture of Determination and Integrity
One of the defining traits of Finnish culture is sisu—a term that embodies determination, resilience, and integrity. This concept is reflected in the Finnish approach to both business and collaboration, where commitment to keeping promises and delivering high-quality results is paramount.
Johanna Jäkälä, Executive Director of Finland Promotion Services at Business Finland, highlighted the importance of working together to achieve progress:
“Collaboration, along with sisu, is really in the DNA of Finland. No one creates change alone, and that is why we are committed to bringing people and businesses together to team up, make unexpected connections, solve problems together, and create an impact.”
As Finland continues to lead in happiness, innovation, and sustainability, the country extends an invitation to the world: join in, collaborate, and create the future in the state of happiness.
