Boden’s Growth Programme Under Review

The growth programme was established in 2017 and identified five strategic growth areas for the municipality: retail and tourism, digital and creative industries, environmental and recycling technologies, energy-intensive industries reliant on green electricity, and the equine sector.

Much has happened since then. The green industrial transition has accelerated, the Swedish Armed Forces are expanding and are expected to further strengthen their presence in Boden, while new companies have established themselves in the municipality.

– We are in a completely different position today. That is why we need to update the direction for how Boden will continue to develop – and we are doing this together with the business community, says Magnus Åkerlund, Municipal Chief Executive of Boden Municipality.

From strategy to reality

The growth programme has played an important role in creating the strong business climate that exists in Boden today. It has also been a decisive factor in enabling major investments – including Stegra’s establishment in Boden Industrial Park.

At the same time, the development of the Swedish Armed Forces is creating new opportunities for both businesses and the labour market – a trend expected to continue in the coming years.

As part of developing an updated growth programme for the period 2027–2030, the municipality is now inviting local businesses to participate in dialogue meetings. The aim is to gather insights, needs and perspectives from those operating in Boden.

The dialogue meetings will be held on:

• 11 May – Edefors area
• 12 May – Unbyn area
• 13 May – Central Boden
• 21 May – Gunnarsbyn area

– It is crucial for us that the growth programme is based on real needs. Businesses drive development, and their perspectives must be part of shaping the way forward.

Several key development processes underway

The review of the growth programme is one of several ongoing processes in the municipality. At the same time, the strategic plan for the same period is being revised, and work is underway to develop a new comprehensive plan.

The new comprehensive plan will create conditions for continued housing development and the expansion of businesses that contribute to the municipality’s growth.

– We are in a phase where many things are happening at once. That is why it is important to have a clear direction for how the entire community should develop – not only businesses, but also housing, infrastructure and attractive living environments.

The new direction of the growth programme is expected to be decided by the municipal council in June.

– This is an important opportunity to contribute your perspective. How should Boden develop going forward? What is needed for more businesses to grow here? These are questions we want to discuss together, and we welcome as many as possible to join the dialogue, says Magnus Åkerlund.

Register for the meetings via Boden Business Park’s website.