Creating resilient rural communities in BSR based on the opportunities of digital bio businesses

eRural resilience

Exploring New Growth Opportunities: Finnish Entrepreneurs on a Study Visit to Valmiera Municipality

21 September 2026

On 9 September, Valmiera Development Agency welcomed a delegation of Finnish small and medium-sized enterprises within the international eRural Resilience project for a study visit in Valmiera Municipality.

The aim of the visit was to introduce the guests to the local business environment, food and beverage sector, and examples of rural entrepreneurship, while creating opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange, and discussions on future cooperation and export opportunities.

The delegation included four Finnish companies – Pure Garden Oy (Fifth Flavour), Punaisen Tuvan Viinitila (Red Cottage Winery), Pirula Oy, and Korvalaanen Oy – representing different areas of the food and beverage industry.

The programme started with an introduction to Valmiera and a meeting at the Valmiera Development Agency, where the guests learned more about the region’s business environment, food and beverage companies, development trends, and cooperation opportunities.

The visit continued at Valmiermuiža Brewery, where Finnish entrepreneurs explored the experience of a local producer, including product and brand development, growth opportunities, and export perspectives.

In Mazsalaca, the delegation visited Būda cafe and the craft house Jēru Klubs, discovering how local craftsmanship, production, and rural lifestyle can be combined with tourism and authentic visitor experiences. At Jēru Klubs, guests learned about wool products, local crafts, and the story behind the farm.

The day concluded at Mr. Plūme cider house, where participants explored the cider-making process and continued discussions about the use of local ingredients, business development, and potential cooperation.

During the visit, Finnish entrepreneurs were especially interested in seeing how locally created products are developed, how companies build their markets, establish partnerships, and expand internationally. Equally valuable was the opportunity to meet Valmiera Municipality entrepreneurs, exchange experiences, and gain new ideas for future growth.

Thank you to all Finnish and Valmiera Municipality entrepreneurs for the open conversations, inspiring stories, and interest in future cooperation!