Place-based Digital Platform for micro SMEs in rural areas

Umeå is a city in northern Sweden, known for its commitment to sustainability, education and culture. As part of Umeå Municipality, the city places a strong emphasis on green urban planning, encouraging cycling, walking, and using public transportation. It is a hub for education and innovation, home to Umeå University and other institutions, making it a popular destination for students and professionals alike. The city celebrates its rich history, including its 400-year anniversary, while also looking forward to future growth, particularly in housing and sustainable development​.

Companies in the rural areas of the region have a very low level of digital presence, which result in problems to meet local demand for products and services that should be digitally available. Due to low digital maturity among micro SMEs and no existing digital platforms it makes a challenge to overcome barriers between city and rural areas.

By introducing a place-based digital platform, Umeå Municipality is exploring innovative ways to foster the digitalisation of micro SMEs, especially those involved in rural development. This initiative aims to create the conditions necessary for these small enterprises to adopt and integrate strategic digital practices, enhancing both their operational efficiency and market reach. The platform supports SMEs by providing essential tools for digital marketing, enabling the easy publication of offers, events, online bookings, and fostering collaboration between local enterprises. The visitors of the site can find companies and offers with a geographical or thematic approach. 

The platform also seeks to build a collaborative and engaged network of micro SMEs, encouraging knowledge sharing, collective problem-solving, and local or regional collaborations. In doing so, Umeå aspires to boost the digital maturity of these businesses, improving their online presence and competitive edge. Ultimately, this effort not only supports the economic vitality of rural areas but also strengthens the broader regional economy, aligning with Umeå's commitment to sustainable development and innovation.

By offering a dedicated digital platform for micro SMEs in the rural areas of Umeå municipality, local businesses are empowered to significantly enhance their digital presence. As a result, this initiative not only bolsters individual businesses but also strengthens the rural economy by encouraging cooperation and innovation. In addition, the platform aligns with Umeå’s broader vision of making rural areas attractive and vibrant hubs for residents, businesses, associations, and visitors alike. By integrating digitalisation into the rural development strategy, Umeå municipality helps ensure long-term economic sustainability and growth, positioning the region as a competitive and appealing destination for a diverse range of stakeholders.

The project engaged a network of micro SMEs from two villages in Umeå municipality throughout every phase of the development process, enabling continuous feedback and ensuring the digital platform was tailored to their specific needs. This close collaboration allowed the project to remain flexible and responsive, adapting the platform in real-time based on the businesses' practical experiences and challenges.

However, a key lesson learned was the challenge of time constraints. While the SMEs were enthusiastic and motivated to improve their digital presence, many found it difficult to allocate the necessary time to participate fully in the project. This highlighted the importance of creating time-efficient solutions and providing additional support to help SMEs integrate digital tools without detracting from their daily operations.