History

The idea for a new type of event was born in 2013. The thought was to create an understanding of the need for genuine development of Ostrobothnia as a supplement to the abundantly present administrative mentality and the defense of what has been achieved. Real development of Ostrobothnia can be achieved through connection to the global market and through insights into what the rapid technological development should concretely mean in everyday life within the public and private sectors. Above all, for its youth. In addition, the event took on the task of coming up with concrete solutions that would be realized without it happening at the expense of other regions. The solutions would provide added value to the region and the whole of Finland. The event should not become an event where one buys a place and does everything to get applause.

Initially, the event operated for several years under the name (and idea) NEW NORDIC CENTER with well-filled halls in RITZ’s old cinema. Sture Udd personally acted as the organizer, and Joakim Strand, among others, was an active participant. Representatives from the public and private sectors were also actively involved, as can be seen in the adjacent pictures from the event – from Kokkola to Kristinestad and with both language groups represented.

In 2018, Bock’s Corner Village was renovated to handle larger events, and the company registered the name Wasa Future Festival. The event also gained a new active participant in Mari K. Niemi from the University of Vaasa, who contributed completely new input and structures. At the same time, the activities broadened to encompass several days. In 2020, WasaFutureFestival broke through nationally – despite the pandemic – with major launches of concrete initiatives for the region, including EnergySAMPO, the bridge between Vaasa and Umeå organized by the Kvarken Council, as well as Young Talks organized by Marja Riitta Vest (then head of the ELY Centre) and the participation of several ministers. Stopping the depopulation of rural areas with new economic ties to growing cities has also been on the agenda the entire time. Thus, WFF has become an event that positively influences development throughout the country.