Finnish companies and city representatives offering innovative decarbonization solutions for urban development and research institutes are invited to join this Trade Mission to Bordeaux on 15 – 18 June 2025. This is a unique opportunity to engage with public sector leaders, industry stakeholders, and regional clusters driving urban transition, sustainable development, and smart mobility. This visit is led by Mr. Matti Anttonen, Ambassador of Finland to France.
Bordeaux (29M inhabitants across 28 municipalities) has undergone major urban transformation, focusing on sustainable transport, building renovation, and riverbank renewal. In 2025, €800 million will be invested in ecological transition and climate resilience, with key initiatives including:
Transportation:
- Feasibility study for a metro system by 2030
- Tramway refurbishment
- Upgrading 60 electric vehicle charging stations
Building Renovation & Energy Efficiency:
- Renovation of 11,500 homes annually to low-carbon standards, targeting a 1,500 GWh energy reduction
- Expansion of renewable electricity by 1,500 GWh by 2026 (geothermal, biomass)
- Development of France’s first low-carbon district with 1,500 housing units, shops, and a school
As a member of EUROCITIES and the 100 Sustainable Cities program, Bordeaux is eager to collaborate with Finnish cities and is seeking new technologies and pioneering solutions to tackle climate challenges.
This Trade Mission, part of Business Finland’s Decarbonized Cities program, includes meetings with key local decision makers such as the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region, Bordeaux Metropolitan Area, French global leading construction firms, mobility providers, energy and environmental clusters as well as digital ecosystem players.
Why join?
- Showcase your company to French global stakeholders, explore new collaborations, and strengthen business ties in France
- Gain insights into Bordeaux Metropole and the Aquitaine region’s projects and tenders
- Connect with key decision-makers, authorities, and potential partners
- Enhance your understanding of the French market and go-to-market strategies.
Who should attend?
If your business offers smart city solutions—innovative technologies, decarbonization, urban mobility, low-carbon construction, renewable energy, or digital enhancements—this visit is for you!
Sought-after solutions include:
- Urban mobility: Digitalization, optimization, hydrogen, and electrification
- Smart city management: Digital solutions for waste, water, and administration services
- Low-carbon buildings: Bio-based materials, carbon capture, energy efficiency, wood construction, and circular economy.
- Renovation technologies: Advancing sustainable and energy-efficient urban development.
Practicalities
To cover the expenses of arranging the visit program in Bordeaux, Business Finland will charge participation fees of:
- Major Companies: 1050 EUR + 25,5% VAT per person
- Micro Businesses and SMEs: 893 EUR + 25,5% VAT per person
Business Finland will invoice the participants after the visit based on the actual costs. The invoiced fee will not exceed the amounts mentioned above. Kindly note that the participation fee does not include flights or accommodation of the delegate nor meals outside the delegation program.
