Competence centres are associations that are based on innovative cooperation between representatives of the government, research and development institutions, as well as businesses. The main objective is to provide support to the development of regional enterprise, in the form of qualified specialists, various studies and training opportunities, as well as physical environments. With the help of a competence centre, in the future, companies will be able to develop new products, services and manufacturing methods, as well as promote export in specific fields of activity. Competence centres are also an engine for the development of new enterprises. Currently, nine competence centres financed by the state are operating in Estonia:

• Marine Technology Competence Centre in Kuressaare;

• Oil Shale Competence Centre  in Kohtla-Järve;

• Centre of Excellence in Health Promotion and Rehabilitation in Haapsalu;

• Competence Centre for Knowledge-Based Health Goods and Natural Products in Polli (Viljandi district);

• Centre of Competence for Wood Processing and Furniture Manufacturing in Väimela (Võru district);