The idea of a business group project gave momentum to the entrepreneur of Maatilamatkilu Ilomäki Merja Ilomäki after participating in projects that aimed to develop the tourism industry by activating regional operators and increasing internationalization capabilities, knowledge and skills.
- Previously, I watched a similar business group project implemented in Lapua from the sidelines, thinking that such a thing would be good here as well. With the project evening organized in Kalajärvi, we really started to gather a group of people who could participate in the project, Merja recalls.
Cooperation and new concepts
In the Peräseinäjoki Helmets - Growth, competition and internationality (KKK) company group project that started in spring 2018, entrepreneurs piloted and developed program service packages, where the focus was on creating attractive and high-quality experiences for customers. In addition to this, they invested in the production of marketing and communication materials in order to make the region's service offerings more widely known. One concrete example of the results of cooperation is the Ruskan voimaa event, which combined accommodation, program services and meals into a whole. The entrepreneurs also did joint marketing and participated in several trade fair events, with the aim of promoting the region's awareness and attracting new customers.
The entrepreneurs had the opportunity to participate in three study trips, which were organized in Finland, France and Germany. On the trip to Germany, we visited, for example, the international ITB trade fair for tourism professionals in Berlin.
- The trip to France, in which I myself participated, was indeed good. Five days were spent touring the south of France, Raimo Ilomäki Farm tourism from Ilomäki remembers.
In addition to joint measures, company-specific measures were also implemented, some of which are still in use years later.
- Yes, those translations aimed at foreigners were important, when you can see what the company has to offer in your own language, Raimo reflects.
During the trip, we also encountered small setbacks, which forced us to slightly change the previously prepared plans. Various factors, such as unexpected circumstances or delays, require flexibility from project implementers.
- Unfortunately, just when we were about to finish the project, Corona struck and the planned group events were not carried out to the extent that had been hoped for, Merja says.
Networks and support from others
Some of the entrepreneurs were already involved in, for example, Peräseinäjoki tourist information's Whatsapp circle, where customers connected to the information can quickly find available accommodation. In addition, with increased cooperation, the entrepreneurs and their activities became familiar to each other, which facilitates cooperation in the future as well.
- We got to know each other quite a lot and now we know what each one does pretty well, which makes it easy to direct guests to stay at Koivutuvi, for example, if theirs is full or if the guests are looking for some kind of program, it's easy to tell them to get in touch with Hanne, Merja reflects.
Different entrepreneurs joined the project from very different starting points. For example, a provider of welfare services To Hanne Stolt the biggest benefit of the project turned out to be the support and networking offered by other entrepreneurs.
- Now, in a way, you also know where to contact if you need something. In a way, I got such links, Hanne says.
The project offered entrepreneurs the opportunity to learn from each other and develop their business together.
- I had just started as an entrepreneur, so in the project there was marketing that such a company is here, what can you then ask to do treatments for a cottage, for example. For example, I visited Merja's cottages a bit.
Tips for other project implementers
At first, project planning may seem like a demanding and challenging task, but according to Merja, it is worth putting in the effort. Development work can be very diverse, and often the best and most innovative ideas can require maturation and thorough reflection before they are ready to be implemented. The effort in the planning phase pays off as the project progresses.
- It's really worth thinking broadly when starting such business group projects. It's worth looking into what others have done and asking a lot, not everything comes to mind immediately when planning a project. Arja Kortesluoma helped us a lot and encouraged everyone to bravely try new things.
At the beginning of the project, Hannele, who only started as an entrepreneur, did not know what all it was possible to do within the framework of the project. The encouragement of others helped to try new things.
- Willingly goes along with everything, like those trips or doing translations, especially if there are professionals to help.
The planning phase is naturally a critical part of the implementation of a successful project, but it is equally important to pay attention to the practical implementation of the project itself and the use of time. Effective time management and carefully planned scheduling are key so that the project progresses smoothly and all phases can be carried out as planned.
- You should reserve plenty of time, however, in my opinion, the project took more time than I had thought in advance. Something was left undone when there was simply no time to do it, Merja reflects.
Merja, Raimo and Hanne, who were involved in the project, recommend the companies to implement a similar project and would be happy to join them again.
The corporate group project was managed by Into Seinäjoki Ry and a total of five companies participated in it: Hyvinvointpalvelut Hanne Stolt, Maatilamatkailu Ilomäki, Ravintola Kalajärvi, Koivutuvat and Jääskän Loma Oy.
Pearls of Peräseinäjoki - Growth, competitiveness and internationality (KKK) business group project
Implementation time
20.05.2018 – 22.05.2020
Total funding
39 859,20 €
Public funding
29 894,40 €
Support percentage:
75,00 %