Our Story
Ohjelmistofriikit was born from the observation that the position of freelancers in Finland needed improvement. Our founders noticed that while freelancers were skilled professionals, they struggled to find work opportunities and weren’t getting the support they needed.
The network was founded in 2022 to connect freelancers and create a community where members can grow, network, and find new opportunities. From the very beginning, the goal has been to build a network that works in the best interest of freelancers.
Today, Ohjelmistofriikit has grown into a network of 800+ freelancers, and we continue to grow, strengthening the position of freelancers in Finland.
Why does the network exist?
The network exists because we believe that the position of freelancers can and must be improved. Freelancers are skilled professionals who bring value to projects, but they often struggle to find work opportunities and get the support they need.
Through the network, freelancers can:
- Find new work opportunities
- Network with other freelancers
- Get support and learn from each other
- Participate in the development of the network
- Improve their own standing in the industry
Background
When we founded Ohjelmistofriikit, we identified several challenges in the freelancer market:
- Fragmented market: There were dozens of firms placing freelancers, and freelancers had difficulty keeping up with all the available opportunities.
- Lack of support: Freelancers had no community to support them and help them grow as professionals.
- Limited opportunities: Freelancers struggled to find new projects and grow their own business.
These challenges motivated us to create a network that improves the position of freelancers and creates better opportunities for everyone.
Mission and Vision
Mission
To improve the position of freelancers in Finland by creating a community that provides support, opportunities, and a voice in decision-making. We are building a network that works in the best interest of freelancers and ensures that all members benefit equally.
Vision
In the future, Ohjelmistofriikit will be Finland’s leading freelancer network, improving the position of freelancers and creating better opportunities for everyone. The network is sustainable, democratic, and owned by its freelancers.
Our Values
Community
We believe in a strong community where members support each other and grow together. Community is the foundation of the network.
Equality
Everyone is treated equally in the network, regardless of how long they have been a member. Equality is the foundation of our network.
Transparency
We are open about our decision-making and the development of the network. We believe that transparency builds trust and strengthens the community.
Sustainability
The success and satisfaction of our members is what matters most. We are building a network that supports the professional growth of freelancers and provides valuable work opportunities.
Ownership
The network is owned and governed by its members. The cooperative structure ensures that decisions are made in the best interests of the members.
Growth
We believe in continuous development and learning. Network members grow together and learn from each other.
Founders
Partner Network
Find the right talent for your projects quickly and easily. Companies specializing in software consulting can join as a Certified Partner.
All partners commit to the Ohjelmistofriikit Manifesto, which guarantees open partnership, reliability, and equality.
Ohjelmistofriikit Cooperative
A cooperative is a jointly owned form of business in which members collectively own the company. The Ohjelmistofriikit cooperative is built for the benefit of freelancers, creating a fair and sustainable community.
The cooperative structure ensures that decisions are made in the best interests of the members, and that the interests of external investors or owners do not drive operations. This means that the development and growth of the network serves all members equally.
How the cooperative supports freelancers
- Cooperative membership gives you a voice in the development of the network
- Access to an extensive network and work opportunities
- Community support and networking with other freelancers
- The opportunity to participate in decision-making and influence the direction of the network
Ownership structure
In the Ohjelmistofriikit cooperative, members collectively own the company. This means that:
- All members have one vote in decision-making, regardless of their share in the cooperative
- Decisions are made democratically among members
- Profits are used to develop the network and benefit its members
- No external owners who could steer the network’s direction according to their own interests
- A sustainable and long-term approach to growing the network
The cooperative structure ensures that the development of the network serves all members equally and that decisions are made in the best interests of the members.
Member benefits
Community
The cooperative structure creates a strong sense of community, where all members benefit from the growth and development of the network.
Influence
As members, you have a voice in decision-making and the opportunity to shape the direction and development of the network.
Sustainability
The cooperative structure ensures that the network develops in a long-term and sustainable way, free from the pressures of external investors.
How do you join as a member?
The cooperative is intended for freelancer companies or small companies whose operations can be equated with freelance work. The cooperative membership fee is €100 (VAT is not added to this amount).