Polar Magnets – International Opportunities of Northern Attraction

Connecting Rural Communities Across Borders

The Polar Magnets – International Opportunities of Northern Attraction project supports international cooperation and new development opportunities for rural communities in Lapland and Koillismaa, Finland.

The project helps local actors build international partnerships, exchange knowledge, and develop new ideas for rural development. At the same time, it encourages young people and community organisations to take part in international cooperation and strengthen their global skills.

Key Facts

Project name
Polar Magnets – International Opportunities of Northern Attraction

Project area
Lapland and Koillismaa, Northern Finland

Implemented by
Koillismaan Leader

Funding
EU Rural Development Programme
Supported by the Economic Development Centre

Main theme
Environmental sustainability and international rural cooperation

Project Goal

The project aims to strengthen international cooperation between rural communities and create new opportunities for development in northern regions.

By connecting local actors with international partners, the project promotes:

  • new partnerships and cooperation projects

  • exchange of knowledge and good practices

  • international opportunities for young people

  • sustainable solutions for rural communities

International Cooperation

Polar Magnets aims to create new partnerships between northern rural regions and international partners.

We are interested in cooperation related to:

  • rural development

  • environmental sustainability

  • youth participation

  • community innovation

Interested in Cooperation?

If you are interested in cooperation or would like to learn more about the project, please contact:

Contact

Pinja Moilanen
Project Manager – Polar Magnets
Koillismaan Leader

📧 pinja.moilanen@koillismaanleader.fi
📞 +358 44 235 2322

Focus Theme: Environmental Sustainability

Environmental sustainability is a central theme of the project.

Through international cooperation we explore questions such as:

  • How can rural communities work together to improve the state of nature?

  • What sustainable solutions can be shared between regions?

  • How can young people become active contributors to environmental action?

The project encourages learning from international examples and developing locally relevant solutions for northern environments.

Activities

The project supports international cooperation through activities such as:

  • international study visits

  • networking events and workshops

  • exchange of ideas and best practices

  • development of new cooperation initiatives

  • youth participation in international activities

These activities help local actors build networks and develop future international projects.

The project welcomes participants from Lapland and Koillismaa, including:

  • young people and youth groups

  • associations and NGOs

  • municipalities and development organisations

  • entrepreneurs and local businesses

  • educational institutions

The project particularly encourages young people and community organisations to explore international opportunities.

International Cooperation