Print Friendly, PDF & Email

Memorandum of Understanding outlines cooperation in green economy and new technologies

On Tuesday, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, representing the State of Colorado,, and the Government of Finland signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to create collaborative opportunities regarding bilateral foreign direct investment, bilateral research and development projects, and company exchanges and expansion opportunities. The MOU specifies development and commercial sections on sustainable and advanced technologies, including but not limited to computing technologies, including quantum tech, green economy advancements and aerospace technology and applications.

Colorado State Capitol. Photo courtesy of Pixabay.

“Colorado’s economy is roaring back, creating jobs and creating new partnerships at home and abroad so we are pleased to partner with the Government of Finland, a country that shares our values of innovation, collaboration, and creating a better future for generations to come,” said Polis.

The signing ceremony took place during a visit by Finland’s Ambassador to the U.S., Mikko Hautala, and the Finnish business and research delegation to the Colorado Capitol building in Denver. During their three-day visit to Colorado, the Finnish delegation will meet with local businesses and research institutions, including the University of Colorado, Solid Power, ColdQuanta and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL).

The group will visit the headquarters of a leading Finnish weather technology company Vaisala, established in Louisville. CU Boulder’s CUBit Quantum Initiative will host a roundtable discussion for Coloradan and Finnish technology companies and researchers. The Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation will host a reception for Coloradan and Finnish companies, researchers, and state and local government officials.

“The relationship Colorado has cultivated with Finland will create mutually beneficial opportunities in aerospace, computing technologies, climate resilience, and more,” said Executive Director of the Office of Economic Development and International Trade Patrick Meyers.

“I don’t think there are many places on Earth where just five million people have so much going on with the aerospace industry, high-performance computing and green solutions,” said Finland’s Ambassador to the U.S., Mikko Hautala. “Add to that our common challenges of building resilient communities, tackling climate change, and generating green jobs, I think it is long overdue that Colorado and Finland bring their partnership to the next level.”

Given the large forest coverage in both Colorado and Finland, climate resilience of communities and mitigation of wildfire risks also are areas of strong common interest. In addition, both regions have deep expertise in cold-weather technologies.

The MOU went into effect on Tuesday and will remain in effect for a period of five years. It can be renewed per the agreement of both parties. To read the MOU in its entirety,  visit the website.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) has the role of working with partners to create a positive business climate that encourages dynamic economic development and sustainable job growth. It reports to the governor, focused on advancing the State’s economy through financial and technical assistance that fosters local and regional economic development activities throughout Colorado.