Sundsvall and Västernorrland are facing extensive social transformation, including increased population growth. A decision has now been taken to approve an in-depth feasibility study for creative and cultural industries in Västernorrland.
The "Into the Heat" feasibility study focuses on examining and investigating how we can strengthen and develop businesses active in creative and cultural industries. Promoting and creating space for the creative and cultural sectors in community building and business is an important part of creating a more diversified business community and a more attractive place to live and work for more people.
-We see how cities around the world have harnessed the capabilities of this industry to reinvent and revitalize themselves, moving from industrial or commercial decline to become thriving centres of creativity and innovation. Their values transform places into vibrant, beautiful environments that make people want to visit and live in a place. Culture and creativity, together with regional collaboration, are key to a sustainable and attractive future for northern Sweden. So I am both happy and proud that Västernorrland is prioritizing this important, beautiful work," says Anna Kollberg, future strategist at BizMaker and responsible for the initiative.
The feasibility study is being carried out in close collaboration with the creative and cultural businesses. Sundsvall Municipality and the project owner BizMaker are now taking the next step to work together with the Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth to conduct an in-depth analysis so that the right support can be designed. The aim is for the results to form the basis of a larger implementation project involving more municipalities in Västernorrland.
- The granting of the in-depth feasibility study 'In i värmen' for the creative cultural industries is of great importance for Sundsvall and shows that we prioritize supporting and developing this sector. This is in line with Sweden's national strategy until 2033, which emphasizes the importance of creative cultural industries to strengthen the country's attractiveness, growth, innovation and exports. Sundsvall is growing and this sector is a key factor in our growth journey. With the right conditions, support and attention, the creative cultural industries will contribute with both job opportunities and increased innovation, which is crucial in the societal transformation we are in, says Olivia Åsberg, Business Developer Sundsvall Municipality.
- The aim now is to take a broader view and look at these industries at a regional level to join forces and achieve a greater impact together. This requires change, renewal and bold leadership and I am so looking forward to this journey, not least to explore and see what we all become together. It is high time that we work towards a more integrated economy where we enable more holistic initiatives so that people, places and our planet can thrive," says Anna Kollberg.
