Not a Sprint but a Marathon: An expert panel explored keys to a winning EU consortium at Nokian Tyres FUTUREPROOF ecosystem event
Nokian Tyres welcomed FUTUREPROOF ecosystem members to its first networking event.
The event, titled Winning Consortium, took place at Nokian Tyres’ headquarters in Nokia, Finland and was also accessible remotely via Microsoft Teams. The FUTUREPROOF program aims to accelerate innovation by uniting companies and experts from across industries. Designed as both a learning opportunity and a platform for building new connections, the event offered participants a comprehensive look into the realities of preparing high-impact proposals for EU programs.
This first networking event opened with a panel discussion featuring six distinguished speakers, each bringing a unique perspective on successful consortium building. Elina Holmberg from Business Finland offered the national funder’s view. Representing industry, Anders Öster of Wärtsilä described the value of connecting the right innovations, partners and funding instruments, and Valmet’s Marke Kallio brought insights from years of leading large-scale industrial R&D programs. Veli-Pekka Luoma from Nokia added a perspective rooted in technology-based innovation, and the coordinator’s viewpoint came from Spinverse’s Pasi Ojala, who works closely with industrial and research partners on the preparation and coordination of major EU proposals. Completing the panel, Heli Harrikari from DIMECC shared her dual role as Head of EU Strategy and evaluator for EU funding proposals. Facilitating the discussion was FUTUREPROOF’s program manager Leena Ryynänen from Nokian Tyres.
The panel repeatedly returned to the “human factor"
Together, the panelists painted a holistic picture of what defines a winning consortium. They agreed that an understanding of EU policy and priorities is essential from the very beginning, and that clear, concise proposals are important. The discussion also highlighted the importance of ensuring strategic fit, both in selecting the right funding call and in choosing partners whose capabilities meaningfully reinforce one another. Beyond the technical and strategic considerations, the panel repeatedly returned to the “human factor,” noting that trust, communication, and personal commitment are central to a consortium’s success. Proactive participation, open communication and early networking were encouraged as practical ways to strengthen collaboration. As one speaker summarized, successful projects are “not a sprint but a marathon,” where the effort invested in planning ultimately pays off during implementation.
Following the discussion, attendees engaged in a lively Q&A session onsite and online. The conversation continued into an informal networking session, where FUTUREPROOF program experts, tire professionals and ecosystem partners exchanged experiences and explored potential future collaborations.
Attendance was limited to FUTUREPROOF ecosystem members. Organizations interested in joining Nokian Tyres FUTUREPROOF and attending future ecosystem events are invited to complete the membership form.
