7. Is There a Need for Transnational Learning? The Case of Restructuring in Small Industrial Towns

This study focuses on restructuring efforts in small industrial towns. The main object of study is the small town of Kaskö in Finland, where the closure of the pulp factory caused major difficulties for the small community. The short-term restructuring measures in the case of Kaskö are compared to the restructuring model in Norway, where a system for long-term economic restructuring through regional cooperation has been used for decades. In Kaskö, there is a lack of mutual understanding and cooperation, and the consequences of these disadvantages are demonstrated. The value of an empowered regional business development agency is evident, acting as the hub of an inclusive regional governance network, and aiming at reaching long-term agreements for continuously diversifying the regional business structure.