The City of Kankaanpää offers its residents diverse and concrete ways to participate in decision-making and the development of the city. The city's Innovation Working Group plays a key role in this work, with the task of taking initiatives to develop the city's operations and promoting innovation in all result areas.

The innovation working group discusses development proposals submitted to Idealinkoo by local residents. Idealinko is a form on the city's website through which anyone can submit ideas for improving Kankaanpää's services, operating methods, marketing or other urban development. The ideas can be small or large - the most important thing is that they take the city in a positive direction.

In addition, the Innovation Working Group selects the recipients of the annual Kankaanpää Innovation Award. Proposals for the 2025 Innovation Award can be submitted using the electronic form Until January 28, 2026The award is given for an innovative idea or method of operation that has promoted the well-being and development of the region. Link: Who should win the 2025 Innovation Award?

The innovation working group also plays a key role in participatory budgeting. Local residents can propose ideas for how the 20,000 euro allocation can be used. January 21–February 15, 2026The innovation working group will select the proposals that will advance to the voting stage, and the residents will be able to vote on the projects to be implemented in March. Link: What can be purchased for the joy of city residents with 20.000 euros? – Propose by February 15, 2026

The City of Kankaanpää is acting in an exemplary manner in accordance with the spirit of the Municipal Act in strengthening open and participatory decision-making. The Municipal Act provides for the right of residents to participate and influence the activities of the municipality, and Kankaanpää has put these principles into practice by offering residents truly impactful and diverse opportunities for participation. Presenting development ideas, participatory budgeting and proposing an Innovation Award are concrete ways in which residents can participate in the city's decision-making and development.

Kankaanpää develops best together – every idea and participation is a step towards an even better city.

Composition of the innovation working group: