Arctic Edge Partner Meeting in Luleå: Collaboration, Progress & Arctic Energy

From 11–12 November, Arctic Edge partners gathered in Luleå, Sweden, for an intensive and energising two-day meeting hosted by Luleå University of Technology. With snow-covered streets and crisp Arctic air setting the scene, the meeting provided the ideal environment to strengthen collaboration and drive the project forward.

Hands-on working sessions brought us closer to delivering Pilot 1, the first demonstration of the Arctic Edge framework. The Pilot is designed to connect multiple supply chain actors including mining site, moulding/production, subassembly and final assembly using shared data protocols and embedded traceability.

Project partners including AIM, North Karelia Chamber of Commerce (NKCCI), Centria University of Applied Sciences, University of Iceland and LTU  worked closely to:

• Co-develop and align on the Arctic Edge conceptual framework, forming the foundation for piloting and long term project outreach
• Test and refine end-to-end process flows for smooth, responsive supply chain operations in Pilot 1, where AIM acts as end manufacturer, NKCCI as the Tier 1 supplier and LTU as Tier 2 supplier.
• Streamline communication protocols and database structures to enable real-time, cross-site data sharing in Pilot 1
• Explore how embedded traceability can reveal supply chain dynamics such as the bullwhip effect, supporting data-driven decision-making
• Discuss collaborative formats with SMEs as part of the upcoming mentoring programme, with valuable input from LTU Professor Vinit Parida

These hands-on working sessions brought us closer to delivering Pilot 1 and validating a robust conceptual framework for digital supply chain interoperability.

We also had the opportunity to visit LTU’s advanced robotics and subterranean labs, engage with innovative local SMEs such as Lustigbäcken and Thingwave, and enjoy a cultural visit to the UNESCO-listed Gammelstad Church Town, a reminder of the rich regional context that Arctic Edge project aims to support.

A warm thank you to our hosts at Luleå University of Technology and to all project partners for their dedication, collaborative spirit, and shared commitment to building a more resilient, connected, and data-driven Arctic supply chain.