Blue Economy & Maritime
Shipbuilding in Turku has a heritage dating back to the 18th century, forming the foundation of one of Finland’s most significant maritime hubs. Today, more than 8,000 professionals across over 400 companies drive the region’s maritime excellence, with nearly one‑third of Finland’s maritime industry located in the Turku economic area.
The Turku region is known for building the biggest cruise ships in the world and for developing smart, autonomous ships. Business Turku supports this thriving cluster by fostering close collaboration between companies, research organizations, and public actors to accelerate innovation and sustainable growth.
Our Focus Areas
Shipbuilding & Maritime Industry
Turku is home to one of the world’s largest cruise shipbuilding ecosystems, with more than 400 companies contributing to highly specialized maritime production. Strong collaboration between companies and universities fuels productivity, technological innovation, and competitiveness across the entire maritime value chain.
If you’re looking to grow within one of Europe’s leading maritime hubs, get in touch with us—we’re here to help you connect, innovate, and scale.
Remote‑Controlled & Autonomous Maritime Operations
The region is a leading environment for developing remote‑operated and autonomous maritime technologies. Companies and research institutions work together to create solutions that improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability in future marine operations.
If your company is exploring new opportunities in smart maritime technologies, reach out to us—we’re here to help you connect with the right partners and accelerate your development.
Emerging Blue Economy Fields
Beyond traditional shipbuilding, new areas of the blue economy are strengthening and establishing themselves in Turku. These include innovative marine applications, new business models, and technologies that expand the region’s maritime capabilities and create opportunities for new companies.
If you’re developing solutions for the blue economy of tomorrow, get in touch—we’ll help you find the right partners and pathways to grow in Turku.
Blue economy & maritime in numbers
1,8 B
Value of a cruise ship
1 500+
Companies in the maritime Turku value chain
5
Shipyards in Southwest Finland
11 000
Jobs supported by the Turku shipyard
?
Value of the industry
27%
Of industry jobs in Southwest Finland
Our Services
Innovation & RDI Potential
Turku’s maritime ecosystem is powered by strong research and innovation.
Companies and universities work closely together to create new technologies and adapt existing solutions for maritime use.
This makes the region an ideal place to test, pilot, and scale ideas that can grow into new business opportunities.
Ecosystem & Business Support
Business Turku supports companies by facilitating RDI collaboration, helping them grow and internationalise, and enabling access to pilot and development environments.
We also build networks, support funding and investment pathways, and promote the sector to ensure companies can attract the talent they need.
Join Our Networks
Hear it from the industry leaders
Tim Meyer
CEO
“We have a very strong network in Finland – 70% of our turnover comes fro here. There are lots of specialist companies, which means good integration of suppliers.
Strong network is due to the heritage of this region. It’s worthwile to keep this up and growing and it’s one of the main reasons we chose Turku.”
Meyer Turku
Hannu Mäntymaa
VP Voyage Services, Managing Director
“Finland, Including Turku, is an international location with numerous strengths in the maritime sector and technology industries.
Our universities and universities of applied sciences are committed to driving innovation in maritime and decarbonization. Turku is also a vibrant student city, making it an attractive place to live.”
Wärtsilä Finland Oy
Business Turku is here to support your growth in the blue economy and maritime sector.
With one dedicated contact person guiding you from first discussion to long‑term development, you’ll always have a knowledgeable partner by your side. Get in touch and let’s explore how Turku can support your next steps.
